Air New Zealand plans to end its domestic codeshare relationship with Qantas on 7 April 2027 and has applied to expand its existing partnership with Virgin Australia. The proposed reciprocal arrangement would make Virgin Australia the New Zealand carrier’s principal partner for domestic connections in Australia, subject to approval by regulators in both countries.
Applications have been submitted to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and New Zealand authorities. The proposed agreement would allow passengers to combine Air New Zealand’s domestic network with Virgin Australia’s Australian services on a single itinerary, while providing reciprocal codeshare and frequent-flyer benefits.
Air New Zealand’s existing codeshare and related loyalty arrangements with Qantas will remain in place until 7 April 2027. The partnership currently provides access to selected domestic routes in Australia and New Zealand; bookings for travel before that date are not affected.
Virgin Australia serves about 90% of the Australian domestic connection destinations used by Air New Zealand passengers, according to the carrier. If approved, the expanded cooperation would strengthen Air New Zealand’s alternative to Qantas for onward travel within Australia and could increase competitive pressure in the market. The final route scope, timetable and commercial terms remain subject to regulatory decisions.