Air New Zealand has put tickets on sale for the first international service from Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), marking a major milestone for Sydney’s new 24-hour airport ahead of its October launch.
The carrier will operate three return services per week between WSI and Auckland from 26 October 2026, becoming the first international airline to fly from the new airport.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the launch signals a significant step forward for the airport’s global ambitions.
“We’re delighted to have Air New Zealand as a trusted partner, with the airline significantly advancing its flight schedule to take off from WSI in October – operating trans-Tasman services three times a week between WSI and Auckland,” he said.
“This route will give Sydney siders greater connectivity to New Zealand’s largest city and main holiday destination, so they can enjoy more choice and flexibility, alongside WSI’s innovative and seamless customer experience in our state-of-the-art terminal.”
Flights will operate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, departing Auckland at 6.05am and arriving into WSI at 7.50am. The return leg departs WSI at 9am, arriving in Auckland at 2.15pm.
Air New Zealand will deploy its narrowbody fleet on the route, using either A321 aircraft with 214 economy seats or A320 aircraft with 165 economy seats.
Air New Zealand general manager short haul and domestic Lucy Hall said the new service expands the airline’s trans-Tasman footprint while unlocking a new catchment in Western Sydney.
“Flying directly into Western Sydney opens up a catchment of more than 2.5 million people, including a significant New Zealand community, and supports stronger business, tourism and visiting friends and family links between our two countries,” she said.
“Together with our services to Sydney Kingsford Smith, this new route gives customers more choice and flexibility when travelling between New Zealand and Australia.”
Federal minister for infrastructure, transport, regional development and local government Catherine King said the launch strengthens ties between Australia and New Zealand, while highlighting confidence in the sector despite recent global disruptions.
“Western Sydney will be connected to our closest neighbours from October, these new flights will grow the connection between our two nations,” she said.
NSW minister for jobs and tourism Steve Kamper said the route represents another major milestone for WSI and a boost for the state’s visitor economy.
“This new Air New Zealand service will strengthen our already close ties with New Zealand, making it easier for visitors to experience everything Sydney and NSW have to offer, while also giving locals more choice when travelling,” he said.
The route has been supported by the Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, a $16 million initiative backed by the NSW government and WSI, which is expected to deliver more than 162,000 international visitors and generate around $530 million in visitor expenditure.
Tickets went on sale at 6am (AEST) on Thursday.
