Qantas jets off to the land of the long white cloud
After five years of absence, Qantas has announced the return of international flights from the Gold Coast, with direct flights to Auckland set for take-off in June next year.
The new route will add more than 52,000 seats annually across the Tasman and boosting tourism in both directions.
Starting from 16 June 2026, Qantas will operate three flights per week year-round from the Gold Coast to Auckland.
Qantas will be the only airline offering Business class between the two cities.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the announcement marked a “huge milestone” for the Gold Coast.
“There’s been real demand for a premium option to Auckland and we’re the only airline offering business class on this route,’’ Mr Wallace said.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said the return of Qantas international flights from the Gold Coast was welcome news for the city and the 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,’’ Mr Warn said.
“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.”
Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said she could not wait to see the planes flying internationally from the Gold Coast 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,’’ she said.
“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 per cent 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 new route will fly year-round on a Boeing 737 aircraft three times per week on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
The inaugural flight will take off on Tuesday 16 June 2026, with economy one-way fares starting from $364
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