Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) is expanding its global reach, with Air New Zealand officially signing on to operate flights to Auckland.
The airline will become the first trans-Tasman carrier to fly from Sydney’s upcoming 24-hour airport, which opens in late 2026.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said Sydney’s new and only 24-hour airport is delighted to partner with Air New Zealand and the New South Wales Government, giving travellers more choice and flexibility and connecting to connect two much-loved destinations.
“I’d like to extend a warm ‘Kia ora’ to our friends across the Tasman as we welcome Air New Zealand’s world-class services to Sydney’s new international gateway,” he said.
“This new strategic partnership… will connect one of Australia’s most diverse and fastest growing regions – Western Sydney – with New Zealand's largest city and main holiday gateway.
“WSI’s innovative terminal facilities and use of next-generation technology will offer Air New Zealand passengers a seamless, intuitive and meaningful airport experience, while our 24-hour capacity will give people more choice on when and how they choose to fly. We can’t wait to welcome you.”
The first flights between Auckland and Western Sydney are expected to begin in mid-2027, marking a major milestone in the airport’s international expansion.
Air New Zealand’s expanded route complements its existing services to Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport. This will give travellers more options and boost connectivity between Australia and New Zealand.
Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran says the airline is pleased to be leading the way in connecting the two countries via the new airport.
"[WSI] represents an exciting step forward for aviation in Australia, and we're delighted to be the first trans-Tasman carrier to signal our intent to operate there as we continue to grow".
"It's a great opportunity to grow our network and better serve the rapidly expanding Western Sydney region. This new route reflects our commitment to making travel more convenient for our customers and supporting stronger connections between New Zealand and Australia.
"We're looking forward to offering customers our world-class Air New Zealand service to and from a world-class new airport."
This announcement is backed by the Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, a $16 million initiative designed to attract airlines to the upcoming airport.
The fund, jointly supported by the NSW Government and WSI, aims to increase aviation capacity and bring in over 162,000 international visitors to the region.
WSI is Australia’s first new international airport in over 50 years, built with next-generation technology and a sustainability-focused design.
The airport will operate without curfews, allowing round-the-clock flights, a key advantage over Sydney’s existing airport.
With Air New Zealand joining the lineup, WSI is positioning itself as a major gateway to trans-Tasman travel.
The airport is expected to handle 10 million passengers annually by 2033, making it a critical hub for tourism and business in Australia’s fastest-growing region.
