18th April 2026
3.1 million passengers passed through Christchurch Airport between November 2025 and March 2026, including 287,000 international visitors.
The season began earlier, ran longer, and delivered more frequent services across key routes, giving travellers greater choice and making it easier than ever to visit.
International visitors contributed $861 million to the South Island economy over the period.
Australia remained the largest source market, with 112,600 arrivals, followed by China with 38,400. Visitor numbers from China rose by more than 100% compared with the previous season.
This was driven by increased direct flights from Guangzhou and changes to visa settings, which now allow Chinese travellers to visit New Zealand on an Australian visa.
Christchurch Airport chief executive, Justin Watson, says the 22% increase in international visitors is a fantastic result. “When you look at the $861 million they’ve contributed to the South Island, that’s real money going into our restaurants, hotels, tourism operators, and the wider economy.”
Business Canterbury chief executive, Leeann Watson, says the business community feels the impact. “That level of visitor spend is a huge boost for our regional economy. Christchurch Airport plays a critical role in bringing people here and getting our exports to market, supporting businesses, jobs, and long-term growth.”
And it wasn’t just passenger numbers driving momentum. The belly holds of departing aircraft were filled with high-value New Zealand exports, including cherries, blueberries, salmon, lamb, and premium seafood, all destined for international markets.
This ensures South Island produce can reach restaurant tables across Asia and beyond within hours of leaving the farm or ocean, supporting growers, fishers, and exporters to achieve higher returns on fresher products.
“Christchurch Airport makes it easier for people to choose our region,” says ChristchurchNZ chief executive, Ali Adams. “That’s helping grow a high-value visitor economy and deliver long-term economic benefits for our communities.”
Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger says the benefits are clear. “Bringing in visitors at this scale supports local businesses and helps keep the city humming.”
Building on this momentum, work is now underway with airline partners to secure additional capacity and ensure next summer is even more successful, further supporting a thriving visitor economy.
Air cargo performance also strengthened over the period, with increased capacity supporting faster delivery of key exports into Asian markets.
Regional tourism operators reported strong demand across accommodation, transport, and experiences, particularly during peak summer months.
The uplift in visitor numbers and freight activity also supported local employment across aviation, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
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