Christchurch takes off to Vanuatu

Today Christchurch Airport celebrates the departure of Solomon Airlines' inaugural direct flight between Christchurch and Port Vila (Vanuatu), opening a new gateway to tropical adventures and creating a new connection in the Pacific.

The new service gives South Islanders another easy option for escaping winter, adding Vanuatu to Christchurch Airport's growing list of direct sunshine destinations, including Rarotonga, Fiji, Cairns and the Gold Coast.

Passengers departing on the first flight were farewelled with a tropical celebration, marking the start of a new chapter in travel, tourism and trade between New Zealand and the Solomon Islands.

Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson says the new route is fantastic news for travellers looking for sunshine, culture and adventure during the colder months.

"Today we're celebrating more than a new flight. We're creating new opportunities for people to explore a remarkable part of the Pacific and strengthening the connections between our communities."

"Vanuatu offers a unique mix of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experiences and world-class diving. At a time when many Cantabrians are dreaming of winter sunshine, this new direct service makes that escape easier than ever."

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger welcomed the arrival of the service.

"This route is a great addition to Christchurch's growing international network. Direct air links help connect our city to the world, support tourism and business opportunities, and give people more travel options."

"We're delighted to welcome Solomon Airlines to Christchurch and look forward to building strong ties with the Vanuatu for many years to come."

Solomon Airlines Chief Executive Officer Matthew Findlay said the airline was thrilled to launch the new service.

"Christchurch has long been an important gateway for South Islanders, and we're delighted to make it easier for people to fly direct to Vanuatu and connect beyond to the Solomon Islands."

“As our partnership with Air Vanuatu grows, we are also moving forward with a long-held objective, to increase interconnectivity across the nations of Melanesia, linking to New Zealand.

The new service strengthens Christchurch Airport's position as the South Island's international gateway and provides travellers with even more options to swap winter coats for tropical temperatures.

For anyone planning a winter getaway, the choice of direct sunshine destinations from Christchurch has never looked brighter.
Start date: Thursday 2 July 2026
Aircraft: Airbus A320-200
Flight time: Approximately 4 hours 10 mins