Air New Zealand’s new perks: Here’s what to expect

Tuesday, 13 August 2024

Air New Zealand is set to introduce a new top tier.

The new tier is likely to be above Elite, and include extra perks.

One of those being considered is a new Elite Lounge.

Air New Zealand’s top frequent flyers are set to receive a boost in perks from next year which could include an exclusive lounge for Elite flyers and even the option to have bags picked up from home.

The national carrier has just completed a significant technology upgrade of its Airpoints scheme, paving the way for major changes over the next 12 months.

One of these changes includes a new tier for frequent flyers.

Air New Zealand currently offers Silver, Gold, and Elite tiers, which are earned by accumulating Status Points through flying and credit card schemes. On top of this, there is a top secret Elite Priority One tier, but it’s by invitation of the CEO only.

On Monday, the airline confirmed that a “new tier will be announced next year” and hinted at who it’s aimed at: “Air New Zealand’s most loyal customers.”

We also know the airline discreetly surveyed Elite flyers to gauge their interest in a new tier above Elite earlier this year.

While Air New Zealand remains tight-lipped about the specifics, it did ask members for their opinion on a new Elite Lounge at Auckland Airport.

Overcrowding at the current Air New Zealand International Lounge at Auckland Airport has long been a point of contention and would likely be a popular addition.

It would also bring it into line with rival Qantas, which has a First Lounge for its top frequent flyers.

Other ideas floated by the survey included having bags picked up from home. Flyers were asked if they would be interested in a service where they could “choose a pick-up slot at a time that’s convenient for you up to 24 hours before your flight, and we’ll collect [them] from your home, hotel, or office and check it in for you.”

The list of potential perks also included the ability to fly home sooner at no extra cost on domestic flights, a Status Match with hotel and rental car providers, free parking at regional airports, and complimentary invitations to new products like SkyNest.

Air New Zealand is also likely to review its Recognition Upgrade scheme, which offers top frequent flyers free upgrades to Premium Economy and Business Premier on a space available basis.

The airline permanently retired a sizeable portion of its long-haul fleet during Covid, resulting in fewer premium seats for passengers — and post-Covid upgrades have been hard to come by.

While the airline is leasing additional 777-300ER aircraft to boost capacity, the number of premium seats is still below pre-Covid levels.

The new perks will be introduced in 2025.

What perks do you think Air New Zealand should introduce? Let us know in the comments below.