Following this overwhelming success, Cathay Pacific announced they will be back for upcoming summer season with an increased service. From 2 December 2024 to 27 February 2025 flights will increase from three to four times per week, reflecting the airline's confidence in sustained demand.

A standout achievement was last year was the export of more than 450,000 kilograms of cherries on outbound flights - a big win for South Island growers.  

Frosti Lau, Cathay Pacific's Regional General Manager Southwest Pacific, was delighted with the service's performance.

Lau said: “There was no hesitation when it came to bringing our Christchurch service back and we’re thrilled to be able to allow more people to discover the superior service and comfort available when travelling with Cathay Pacific.”

Christchurch Airport CEO Justin Watson emphasised the service's role in enhancing global connectivity for the South Island

Watson said: “Cathay Pacific’s extensive network enables visitors from across the world to come to and explore our region, which benefits our communities and businesses. It also strengthens Christchurch Airport’s role as a long-haul travel hub connecting our city to global destinations.”

“Te Waipounamu the South Island’s food producers were delighted with the service – it enabled them to get hundreds of tonnes of more high-value product to markets in Asia quickly. They’ll be rapt the service is being increased and we expect to see even more cherries, seafood, meat, and quality Kiwi kai (food) departing on Cathay Pacific flights later this year.”

With bookings now open, Cathay Pacific anticipates another bumper season connecting Christchurch to Hong Kong and beyond. The United Kingdom, China mainland, and other destinations in Europe and Asia are all popular onward options.

Photo: General Manager Southwest Pacific Frosti Lau and CEO Christchurch Airport Justin Watson