Christchurch Airport and Shanghai Airport sign agreement to strengthen air links

Sarah Ottrey, Christchurch Airport Board Chair, and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon have signed an agreement between Christchurch Airport and Shanghai Airport Authority marking a new chapter in cooperation between the two aviation gateways. 

The signing took place as part of the current New Zealand Trade Mission to China which is visiting Shanghai and Beijing to seek to secure and grow trade and economic opportunities. 

The MOU aims to strengthen strategic ties, encourage direct connectivity and support growing demand for trade and tourism between the South Island and China who are New Zealand’s largest trading partner.

The wider trade mission is focusing on unlocking new economic opportunities in tourism, education, and premium food and beverage, all vital to New Zealand’s future growth.

Sarah’s appointment to the delegation alongside 27 other NZ business leaders reflects both her leadership at Christchurch Airport and her deep understanding of New Zealand’s strategic relationship with China. As a member of the NZ China Business Council, she plays an active role in shaping dialogue between the two countries, offering insights into how trade, tourism and investment can benefit both sides.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says “I’m delighted to have Sarah join our trade delegation to China. Her deep knowledge of tourism, considerable international delegation experience and her leadership at Christchurch Airport, make her a valuable voice for the South Island. She brings a strong regional perspective to the table, which is vital as we look to strengthen our economic and people-to-people ties with China.” 

Direct air connectivity is critical to trade and tourism growth and Christchurch Airport plays a key role in linking China to the South Island. In 2024 Chinese visitors spent NZ$1.1 billion and two-way trade with China reached NZ$38 billion1.

Sarah Ottrey says the Trade Mission is an opportunity to build on the foundations already in place. “The New Zealand–China relationship is vital to our regions and our economy. Through the NZ China Business Council, I’ve seen how trust and partnership create real momentum, and this mission gives us a chance to turn that into outcomes. Direct links through Christchurch Airport are one way we can bring people, goods and ideas together.”

The following week from 23 June a Christchurch Airport delegation will be in China hosting its industry leading Kia Ora South events celebrating its 11th year in market. The events are a platform to promote tourism and education travel from China to New Zealand. Traveling from New Zealand is a delegation of 25 industry leaders which is undertaken in conjunction with Tourism New Zealand and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.