Air New Zealand is celebrating its 85th anniversary by reuniting 85-year-olds with their families. The initiative aims to bring people together for birthdays, emphasizing the importance of family connections. Eligible participants include those turning 85 or who have an 85-year-old in their family. Air New Zealand will cover travel expenses to facilitate these reunions.
Greg Foran, Air New Zealand’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the airline’s long-standing commitment to connecting people: “While much has changed since our first flight back in 1940, what hasn’t changed is the joy we get from bringing people together.” He emphasized that connection has been central to the airline’s mission for nearly 85 years.
Foran also noted recent developments at Air New Zealand, including a new uniform designed by Emilia Wickstead and upcoming innovations like the Skynest. He stated, “As we look ahead to the future, we’re still full of energy, ideas, and that Kiwi ingenuity that keeps us exploring.”
The airline invites interested individuals to visit airnz.co.nz/85years to enter the reunion program. Participants will be reunited over the next two years on dates convenient for them.
Reflecting on its history, Air New Zealand shared several iconic moments from its journey. These include being the first airline to boil water mid-flight in 1950 and pioneering non-stop flights between Auckland and Los Angeles in 1984. Other milestones include introducing SkyCouch seating in 2011 and launching flights conducted in te reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language between 2023-2024.
Air New Zealand continues to innovate with initiatives like the Mangōpare Pilot Cadetship launched in 2024 and retrofitting its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft this year.
