Air New Zealand’s loyalty refresh drops Airpoints in favour of Koru brand
Air New Zealand CEO, Nikhil Ravishankar, said Koru is one of the most significant evolutions of the loyalty programme in nearly 30 years.
“Airpoints has been an important part of our story and now, that story is evolving. Koru symbolises care, connection, and renewal,” he said.
“For our members, the name Koru inspires pride, belonging and a sense of place, especially when travelling far from home. Now it’s at the heart of loyalty at the airline.
“We’ve listened to what matters most to our members. We’re proud to be introducing a more rewarding experience that feels simpler, more personal, and unmistakably Kiwi. Koru builds on everything our five million members love about loyalty, shaped and inspired by their feedback.”
The changes will see the introduction of a new ‘Koru Black’ tier which Ravishankar said was designed to recognise Air New Zealand’s most loyal members with an elevated level of recognition and rewards.
To qualify, members must earn over 3,200 Status Points, including 1,920 from qualifying flights in a year.
“To say thank you for the continued support of our most frequent flyers, and the miles they’ve travelled with us, we’re gifting a selection of rewards to those who qualify for Koru Black between now and April 2026, before they officially move to their new tier,” he said.
Koru Black members can expect an additional Recognition Upgrade and short haul Recognition Upgrade from today; access to an Express Lane trial for aviation security screening at Auckland Domestic Airport between 19-28 November; additional Valet Parking Vouchers delivered on 8 December just in time for the festive season; and more.
“Reaching Koru Black often means flying further, travelling more often, and spending time away from home.
“Koru Black members have trusted us with their journeys time and time again and we want to recognise that loyalty with something truly special – the ability to share their travel experience,” Ravishankar said.
He said this transformation is just the beginning of a broader evolution in how Air New Zealand recognises and rewards loyalty.
“There’s more on the horizon including introducing new partners, delivering new and exclusive ways to fly with Air New Zealand using Airpoints, and new opportunities to earn Airpoints and Status Points to ensure our members get even more value from every journey,” Ravishankar said.
“Our members have helped shape this programme through every journey, every piece of feedback, and every moment they’ve chosen to fly with us.
“We’re incredibly grateful for that loyalty and we can’t wait to welcome our members into this new era.”