August Domestic Travel Update

Domestic travel continues to improve

There are encouraging signs for organisations relying on domestic travel, with stronger airline performance and continued recovery at key airports helping improve reliability across the network.

Air New Zealand has reported a significant improvement in operational performance, with 86% of flights arriving within 15 minutes of schedule during June. Reactionary delays were also reduced by more than 50% compared with the same time last year, helping minimise knock-on disruptions across the network. It's a positive sign for organisations relying on domestic travel through the busy winter period.

Meanwhile, Wellington Airport continues its recovery following the June fire, with the southwest pier now reopened and gates 13–16 back in operation, easing pressure on domestic jet services. The Air New Zealand Domestic Lounge remains temporarily closed while repair work continues, although the Regional Lounge remains open with temporary restrictions. Travellers passing through Wellington should experience smoother operations as the airport continues returning to normal.

What this means for travellers: Improving airline performance and the continued recovery of Wellington Airport should contribute to a more reliable domestic travel experience.

Investing in New Zealand's airport infrastructure

Major investment continues across New Zealand's airport network to support future growth and improve operational efficiency.

Construction has begun on Queenstown Airport's new heavy taxiway as part of a $65 million infrastructure investment. The project will improve aircraft movements, reduce both ground and airborne delays, strengthen operational resilience and lower fuel use, while allowing the airport to remain fully operational throughout construction.

For businesses travelling regularly to Queenstown, the investment represents an important step towards supporting one of New Zealand's busiest regional gateways as demand continues to grow.

What this means for travellers: While construction is underway, airport operations will continue as normal, with the long-term investment expected to improve efficiency and resilience for future travel.

Helping travellers navigate disruption

Understanding traveller rights remains an important part of managing travel when plans don't go as expected.

Consumer NZ has launched a new flight rights information hub and complaints portal to help travellers better understand their rights when flights are delayed, cancelled or baggage is delayed. With many travellers still unaware of the protections available under New Zealand law, the new resource provides a central place to access reliable information when disruption occurs.

It's a helpful resource to bookmark, however if challenges do arise, the Tandem Travel is available for support.

What this means for travellers: Better access to information helps travellers understand their rights, while having experienced travel support remains invaluable when disruption occurs.

Regional connectivity continues to evolve

Regional air services continue to adapt as airlines respond to changing commercial and operational conditions.

Air Chathams have confirmed changes to parts of its regional network as it responds to ongoing commercial and operational pressures. If these changes affect your travel programme, we'll work with you to arrange the most suitable alternative options.

What this means for travellers: As regional networks continue to evolve, we'll continue monitoring changes and work with affected customers to keep travel plans on track.

As always, we'll continue monitoring developments across New Zealand's travel landscape. If changing schedules, regional services or disruption affect your travel plans, we're here to help. Tandem Travel will continue working alongside you to keep your travellers moving with confidence.