Qantas has unveiled a new trans-Tasman route, announcing the launch of direct flights between Auckland and Perth from December 2025.
The new service will offer a significant uplift in travel options for New Zealand travellers heading to the UK, Europe, and South Africa, while strengthening Qantas’ strategic hubs in both cities. Commencing 7 December 2025, the Auckland–Perth route will operate three times a week using Qantas’ Airbus A330 aircraft. The 8-hour service will offer 27 lie-flat business class suites in a 1-2-1 layout, alongside 224 economy seats.
For Kiwi travellers heading to Europe, the route provides a streamlined one-stop option to London, Paris, and Rome via Perth, linking seamlessly with Qantas’ daily direct services. It also enables smooth onward travel to Johannesburg through the airline’s newly announced Perth–Johannesburg service, bolstered by a codeshare partnership with South African carrier Airlink.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the new route strengthens the airline’s international offering for New Zealanders. “We’re so excited to be launching our brand-new route between Auckland and Perth, unlocking more options and greater choice for Kiwis to connect to Australia and the world. By connecting Auckland directly with Perth, we’re enabling a convenient and vital one-stop proposition for Kiwis to fly to the UK and across Europe on our popular direct services. We’re also opening inbound tourism opportunities to Auckland and throughout New Zealand on the Jetstar domestic network”, said Wallace.
In addition to bolstering outbound travel options, the new route is expected to drive inbound tourism to New Zealand, with visitors able to connect across the country via Jetstar’s domestic network. The launch comes as Qantas expands its international footprint out of Perth, with the airline positioning the city as a growing gateway to long-haul destinations in Europe and Africa.
Flight details: Service begins: 7 December 2025*
- Frequency: 3x weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)
- Flight time: ~8 hours
- Aircraft: Airbus A330
Subject to Government and regulatory approvals.