A major tourism initiative aimed at boosting travel from India to New Zealand’s South Island has been launched, with Christchurch Airport and Ngāi Tahu Tourism signing a landmark partnership agreement.
The agreement was signed in India during New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s business delegation, marking what organisers say is a significant milestone in tourism ties between the two countries.
The partnership paves the way for the Magnificent South Promotion, a campaign set to launch in October 2025, designed to attract more Indian visitors, extend their stays, and deepen cultural connections.
Timed to align with Diwali and India’s honeymoon season, the campaign capitalises on a key period when Indian travellers are actively seeking international holiday destinations.
Christchurch Airport and Ngāi Tahu Tourism, alongside Tourism New Zealand and leading travel partners, will deliver tailored luxury, adventure, and cultural packages across the South Island.
Christchurch Airport CEO Justin Watson said: “With more Indian travellers exploring New Zealand, we want to make it as easy as possible for them to start their journey in Christchurch. This partnership strengthens our air connectivity, travel experiences, and cultural engagement and adds up to an awesome experience for Indian visitors.”
Ngāi Tahu Tourism General Manager Jolanda Cave said: “We are proud to help open up trade with India. For over twenty years, Ngāi Tahu Tourism has collaborated with operators and agents in India to promote New Zealand as a premier destination. Manuhiri (visitors) from India are among the largest groups enjoying our world-class experiences, with the iconic Shotover Jet in Queenstown being particularly popular with Indian travellers.”
Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the partnership reflected the strength of New Zealand’s collaborative approach to growing international tourism.
“New Zealand thrives when we work together. This partnership between Christchurch Airport, Ngāi Tahu Tourism, and the Indian travel industry is a fantastic example of how we can create meaningful and sustainable growth. By joining forces, we’re not only making travel easier for Indian visitors but also strengthening our economic and cultural ties with one of our most important international partners.”
The partnership will focus on improving air connectivity to Christchurch, strengthening relationships with top Indian travel agents, and hosting key influencers and media representatives to promote the South Island.
The signing of the agreement coincided with a launch event in Mumbai, bringing together leading Indian and New Zealand tour operators and specialist agents.
Christchurch Airport will lead the marketing for the Magnificent South Promotion, supported by digital brochures, targeted campaigns, and promotional activity starting immediately. Travel packages, developed by top New Zealand inbound tour operators, will be distributed through a consortium of Indian tour operators and New Zealand Specialist Agents, catering to both honeymooners and families.
With India now New Zealand’s largest source of new migrants and a growing tourism market, the Magnificent South Promotion is seen as a bold step towards strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The campaign is also expected to reinforce Christchurch Airport’s role as the premier gateway to the South Island.
