Qantas has announced the return of international flying from the Gold Coast, with direct flights to Auckland set for take-off in June 2026.

The new route will mark the first time Qantas international services have operated from the Gold Coast in almost five years, adding more than 52,000 seats annually across the Tasman and boosting tourism in both directions.

Starting from June 16 2026, Qantas will operate three flights per week year-round from the Gold Coast to Auckland with Boeing 737-800 aircraft, connecting Queensland’s tourism capital with New Zealand and providing customers with enhanced connectivity across the Tasman.

“Today marks a huge milestone for the Gold Coast with Qantas international services returning after almost five years,” said Qantas International CEO, Cam Wallace.

“There’s been real demand for a premium option to Auckland and we’re the only airline offering business class on this route.”

Qantas will be the only airline offering Business class between the two cities, providing both leisure and business travellers with a premium option on the popular trans-Tasman route.

“The return of Qantas international flights from the Gold Coast is welcome news for our city and tourism industry,” said Experience Gold Coast CEO, John Warn.

“The announcement by Australia’s long running and iconic airline is testament to the strong aviation attraction collaboration between the airport and Experience Gold Coast and the continued growth in international visitation to the city, and in particular the strength of the New Zealand market.

“217,000 Kiwis chose to visit the Gold Coast in the year ending June 2025 and the new Qantas service between the Gold Coast and Auckland will make it even easier to cross the ditch and experience the best of our destination,” he said.