Air New Zealand is significantly expanding its Singapore operations with a new non-stop Christchurch–Singapore service launching on 28 October, adding more than 34,000 seats during the season.
Operating three times weekly alongside the airline’s existing Auckland–Singapore route, the service will be flown using the airline’s retrofitted Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring redesigned business premier seating, a new premium economy experience and refreshed economy cabins.
The route marks one of the carrier’s most significant recent network additions and gives Asian travellers direct access to New Zealand’s South Island, long known for experiences such as alpine cycling, whale watching in Kaikōura and Milford Sound cruises.
For tourism stakeholders, the expanded connectivity – including Air New Zealand’s recently announced direct Christchurch services to Tokyo and Perth – signals a broader shift in how Christchurch positions itself across Asia.
“What excites us is Changi Airport’s role as a hub,” said Andrew Murray, co-owner of regional tour operator Canterbury Trails. “Singapore connects Southeast Asia, wider Asia and even Europe directly into Christchurch. This means travellers from markets we've historically found harder to reach – such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and India – can now connect to us far more easily.”
Christchurch steps up
The enhanced connectivity comes as Christchurch continues reshaping its identity beyond being a gateway to South Island itineraries.
Since the 2011 earthquake, the city has undergone a major urban transformation centred on contemporary architecture, public spaces and cultural infrastructure. Street art now lines much of the central city, while landmarks such as the Christchurch Central Library (Tūranga) have emerged as symbols of the city’s regeneration.
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has strengthened the city’s MICE ambitions, while the recent March opening of the 30,000-seat Te Kaha stadium is expected to expand its appeal for international sporting and entertainment events.
Christchurch is also building momentum on the culinary front, with the Michelin Guide’s anticipated New Zealand debut – covering Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown – expected to further elevate the city’s dining profile among international travellers.
New cultural experiences are also adding depth to the destination offering.
Waka on Avon, a 90-minute guided journey along the Ōtākaro Avon River aboard a traditional Māori canoe, combines storytelling, indigenous ingredients exploration and a short riverside walk to introduce visitors to the area’s Māori heritage and connection to the landscape.
Kath Low, head of tourism at ChristchurchNZ, said the city’s appeal lies in its layered range of experiences.
“Christchurch offers a rare combination of urban reinvention, easy access to nature and authentic cultural experiences,” she said. “Visitors can enjoy world-class events, contemporary dining, and a vibrant arts scene, alongside meaningful engagement with Maori culture, all within a compact and accessible destination.”