Air New Zealand and Air Chathams launch interline partnership for regional connectivity

"It's about giving customers more choice, greater regional connectivity, and a smoother travel experience. This partnership also lets us test a model that could strengthen connections for other regional communities in the future. This is all about supporting more parts of Aotearoa, as well as supporting local businesses and communities."

Duane Emeny, CEO of Air Chathams, said the partnership will provide more options for regional customers and promote Whakatāne to a wider audience. "As a proudly regional airline, we're pleased to work alongside Air New Zealand to improve access for our Whakatāne community. This agreement gives us greater visibility through Air New Zealand's sales channels, while ensuring our local customers enjoy a more connected travel experience.

"This partnership is an important first step and we see real potential to build on it with further regional connections in the future and continue to help unlock opportunities for growth, employment and mobility across the country," said Emeny.

Steven Perdia, Chief Executive of Whakatāne District Council, said the council has long supported such an arrangement. He commented, "The partnership is great news for Whakatāne and the wider Eastern Bay of Plenty, and it's good to see Air New Zealand and Air Chathams work together in support of regional New Zealand. Reliable air connections keep our people connected for business, education, health and to whānau, and also help open the door for more visitors to experience everything our district has to offer."

Under the agreement, Air New Zealand will initially sell Air Chathams' Whakatāne-Auckland services as part of connecting journeys. Additional regional connections may be added in the future.