Qantas has announced its return to international travel from Gold Coast Airport, with flights to Auckland taking off next year.
The service will operate between the two cities three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, giving customers more choice on the city’s busiest international route, including the introduction of a business class option.
Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans welcomed the return of Qantas to Gold Coast Airport’s international network.
“Qantas has been a long-standing and valued partner for our airport and we can’t wait to see them flying internationally from the Gold Coast once again.”
“This expansion reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to connecting travellers with the world, further cementing our position as Australia’s most connected airport to New Zealand.
“Auckland is already our most popular international route, with more than 320,000 passengers travelling between the two destinations annually – this new service will add a further 54,000 seats.
“More than 65% of passengers travelling on flights from New Zealand into the Gold Coast are visitors, and this will provide even more options, particularly for business and premium travellers.”
The service was supported by the Queensland Government and Experience Gold Coast through the Connecting Queensland Fund.
CEO of Qantas International Cam Wallace said the return of Qantas to the Gold Coast marks a major milestone, meeting strong demand for premium travel across the Tasman.
“We're excited to be bringing Qantas international flying back to the Gold Coast after almost five years.
There's been real demand for a premium option to Auckland and we're the only airline offering business class on this route.”
Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the announcement was a major win for the whole state.
“We want the world to know Queensland is the home of the holiday - the place you come to unwind, explore, and spend big with the local businesses that make this state special.
"As part of Destination 2045, we said we would lock in more strategic connections to bring visitors here, and we've delivered.
“We are delighted to welcome our Kiwi neighbours on this exciting new service and proud to support this new service through the Connecting Queensland Fund, the first of many partnerships to make us more connected than ever before."
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said Qantas’ return to international flights was welcome news for the city and tourism industry.
“The announcement by Australia’s long running and iconic airline is testament to the strong aviation attraction collaboration between the airport and Experience Gold Coast and the continued growth in international visitation to the city, and in particular the strength of the New Zealand market.
“217,000 Kiwis chose to visit the Gold Coast in the year ending June 2025 and the new Qantas service between the Gold Coast and Auckland will make it even easier to cross the ditch and experience the best of our destination.”
Tickets are now available at www.qantas.com.