Cathay Pacific is expanding its network in the South Pacific with the reactivation of the seasonal Hong Kong – Christchurch route for the austral summer season. The airline last operated this service on February 29, 2020.
The resumption of this route will boost the economy and tourism sector of Christchurch and the South Island, as well as offer travelers the ability to connect to other destinations in Asia, Europe and beyond.
“Cathay Pacific has been flying to New Zealand for 40 years and we are proud to return to Christchurch. Resuming our non-stop service from Christchurch to Hong Kong is an important milestone in Cathay Pacific’s rebuilding of connectivity. We know it is a popular route and one that we value highly. In fact, it is the first seasonal route we have re-established since the pandemic“, said Sandeep Pillay, Cathay Pacific’s Acting Regional Director for the South West Pacific.
The non-stop service to Christchurch will attract tourists to explore New Zealand’s South Island, adding significant economic activity during the summer period. This flight also means Cathay Pacific can carry fresh produce from the Kiwi country and other cargo that attracts a premium in world markets.
Cathay Pacific flight schedule to Christchurch
- Hong Kong – Christchurch Flight CX 123 HKG 21:05 – CHC 13:20+1 Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
- Christchurch – Hong Kong Flight CZ 126 CHC 14:50 – HKG 21:20 Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
Route details
- The seasonal service commences on December 15, 2023 and ends on February 28, 2024.
The route will be operated on Airbus A350-900 aircraft seating 280 passengers in three classes (38 Business Class/28 Premium Economy/214 Economy) and promotional fares are available from USD 1,407 roundtrip.
Cathay Pacific began operations to Christchurch in 2017, this service is complemented by flights between Auckland and Hong Kong. The airline has a codeshare partnership with Air New Zealand that has contributed to an increase in tourism from Asia and offers a number of benefits to travelers.
“This is another vote of confidence in Christchurch, Canterbury and the South Island as a tourist destination and producer of quality, high value products. This is fantastic news that will have widespread economic benefits – we look forward to seeing the Cathay Pacific queue out of our terminal soon“, said Justin Watson, Christchurch Airport’s Chief Executive Officer.
See also: Cathay Pacific nears deal for Boeing 777-8F aircraft
