China Southern Airlines is returning to Christchurch for an expanded summer season, starting at the end of October.

Asia’s largest carrier will resume its direct service between Christchurch and Guangzhou, with flights operating seven days a week from 17 December 2024 to 12 February 2025.

This schedule offered 75% more seats compared to the same period last year.

The increased flights were expected to benefit those celebrating Chinese New Year in the South Island, as well as provide more opportunities for travel and commerce.

To meet the high demand, additional services would operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays, in addition to the five weekly flights previously available.

The approximately 12-hour flight would be operated by China Southern’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

Since 2016, China Southern had offered direct flights to Christchurch, with nearly 400,000 passengers using the Guangzhou service.

Gordon Bevan, General Manager of Aeronautical Development at Christchurch Airport said, “China is a high-value market for us, and the greater flexibility of flight options opens connection opportunities for travellers from China Southern’s extensive network that spans more than 220 destinations across 40 countries. That creates so many more opportunities for global travellers who want to experience the awesome tourism offerings in New Zealand.”

Bevan said a Memorandum of Understanding signed with China Southern earlier in the year was delivering on its promises.

“With a fair wind, we hope to see a China Southern aircraft in the skies of Canterbury all year round. The MOU not only aims to boost tourism but also focuses on enhancing education and high-value cargo services, boosting our region’s economy and international connectivity.”