Air New Zealand has announced plans to introduce direct flights between Christchurch, New Zealand, and Denpasar, Bali, during the 2027 winter season. The new service will operate three times a week, providing travellers from New Zealand’s South Island with a direct connection to one of Indonesia’s most popular holiday destinations.
Announced on 28 October 2026, the new route is part of the airline’s wider international expansion from Christchurch. The service is expected to operate throughout the New Zealand winter until the end of August 2027, although the airline has yet to confirm its exact launch date and flight schedule.
The announcement is also expected to support tourism between Indonesia and New Zealand by making travel between the two destinations more convenient. Passengers travelling from Christchurch will be able to reach Bali without having to connect through other airports.
Christchurch–Bali Flights to Operate Three Times a Week in Winter 2027
According to Air New Zealand, the new non-stop service will connect Christchurch International Airport with I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. The three-times-weekly schedule will run during the 2027 winter season, giving travellers more direct options for holidays between the two countries.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Nikhil Ravishankar said Bali remained a popular holiday destination among New Zealand travellers, particularly during the colder months.
“Bali has long been a favourite holiday spot for Kiwi, and we know how appealing a bit of sunshine is in the middle of a South Island winter. Being able to fly direct from Christchurch means customers can spend less time connecting through other airports and more time enjoying their holiday. It’s another way we’re making international travel easier for South Islanders,” said Ravishankar, as quoted from Kompas.com.
The new connection is also expected to benefit Christchurch and the wider South Island by attracting more international visitors. Direct flights can make the region more accessible to travellers from Indonesia and other international markets, potentially supporting local tourism businesses.
Christchurch International Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson welcomed the announcement, describing Bali as a valuable addition to the airport’s international network.
“Bali is a fantastic addition to our international network and a destination we know South Islanders will be excited about. Being able to fly direct from Christchurch makes getting away on a tropical holiday so much easier.”
He added that the new route followed the introduction of other international services from Christchurch.
“Hot on the heels of new Air New Zealand services to Singapore, Tokyo and Perth, this is another big step forward for travellers from Christchurch and the South Island,” Watson said.
Air New Zealand expects tickets for the Christchurch–Denpasar service to become available later in 2026. However, the route remains subject to regulatory and airport approvals.
