Invercargill Airport and Christchurch Airport look very cozy and homely with those wooden touches. Easily beats out the main airports in the larger cities.
Great trip report buddy! Air NZ does for priority boarding for certain status (ie gold etc) together with Koru club, to which we definitely use. Shame you didn't get to stay in the garden city of Christchurch, we loved it so much, we purchased a property there we'll retire in the next few years! Fun fact, did you know that Christchurch airport has the longest runway in the southern hemisphere, as the US airforce operates flights from there to Antarctica!
I absolutely live for little trivia facts, so thanks for that CHC runway titbit! Yeah unfortunately when I do these trips, it is pretty much a mission oriented event and I don't spend much time at stops. It's either a transit or an overnight rest stop. I'll definitely keep Christchurch in mind! Cheers.
Hi I'm from Westport Buller Region, West Coast South Island. I love "Wellington Airport." I fly Westport - Wellington - New Plymouth every 3yrs. I enjoy flying. Any season for me. Beautiful Sunrises.
It gets better Ryan, the Air NZ Airbuses are being withdrawn from service for maintenance on a rolling schedule. More flights have been cut and planes are going to be shuffled to try and make up for the lack of seats.
On time performance has dropped over the last few years - agree 100 percent. However, the alternative discount airline in NZ is also struggling and has a higher cancellations rate. International airlines arriving into New Zealand are also slipping - the result of more frequent weather issues, and a host of other things - crewing - engine replacment delays -- etc. Welcome to the 21st Century of air travel - and I am not optimistic that this situation will improve globally. I guess one of the contributing reasons is also the economic models have changed radically over the the past few years with increased competition, fuel pricing, and clicking the ticket for the captive passenger in ways that used to be given free as part of the service.
Some of your comments shows a lack of understanding on how Air NZ operates domestically within New Zealand. Firstly delays. Being an island nation surrounded by sea, weather in the one of the biggest disruptor of flights within New Zealand due to unpredictable localised weather patterns, that can have a ripple effect across both domestic jet services and regional turbo prop services. Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch have both domestic and regional crew bases and Nelson only has a regional crew base, so if there is fog in Auckland and/or wind issues in Wellington and Christchurch or snow/ice issues in Christchurch and Queenstown and lessor extent ice in Dunedin, this can cause major disruptions for both domestic and regional services. Since you traveled in October, there where alot of weather related disruptions for both Jetstar and Air NZ domestically and occasional international flights. With regards to the delay at Christchurch, usually the flight crew will tell passengers the reason for the delay of the service. Secondly, network coverage. Domestic jet (17 A320ceos/2 A321neos) services operate between Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown with 2 return nonstop flights between Auckland and Invercargill. Rest of the coverage is operated by regional turbo prop (ATR72-600 and Q300) aircraft as they are more economical to operate due to variable runway lengths and lower population density, as most regional flight times are 30 to 70 minutes in duration. There are 3 regional airports that certified for A320/B737 operations being Rotoura, Hamilton and Invercargill. Air NZ is the second largest operator in the world for ATR72-600 aircraft, as they are suitable for the country's conditions. Air NZ has 23 Q300's that are suitable for regional destinations like Paihia/Bay of Islands, Whangarei, Gisborne, Hokitika and Oamaru short runways but also back up the ATR's. Air NZ has decide to extend the operational life of the Q300's due to their operational flexibility for regional turbo prop services. Thirdly. onboard services. After the Ansett Australia fiasco, full service in flight meal service where withdrawn and onboard purchase with introduced and that was withdrawn due to low demand for the product. Since most domestic jets services are 60-70 minutes, there has never been IFE available since the B737 were introduced to domestic services in 1968. A recent survey by Air NZ found, the Q&A entertainment is supported by most locals coupled with mobile device entertainment. With regards to snacks, the Good Time cookie is the preferred option by locals. Earlier this year, Air NZ announce a review on onboard catering for domestic services. It was proposed to replace the cookie and there was outcry about the possible withdrawing of the cookie by the locals and like with the arrival lollies, they are now a must have for onboard domestic catering. fourthly. Priority boarding on domestic jet services is available for Star Alliance Gold, Air NZ Gold Elite, Gold and Koru members. Air NZ is publicly listed company with the NZ government holding 53% of the shares with private and institutional investors having the remain 47%. As a publicly listed company Air NZ is expected to make a profit. With regards to your comment querying Air NZ as a 'full service' airline, it does operate a LCC/FSC 'Seats to suit fares' business model for short haul Trans Tasman and Pacific Island services only. Medium to ultra long haul services, Air NZ is a full service airline. I have noticed that comments like yours about full service 'status' is usually based on lack of understanding of the airline or misinformation.
You've clearly not paid any attention to my video in its entirety. This video is a continuation from part 1 where the Queenstown fiasco caused much chaos, which I've mentioned numerous times could've spilled over to day 2. Of course an airline is never immune to delays and weather is a huge factor, which I've mentioned in my video during pushback as well. And I've also mentioned I fully accept Air NZ needs to make a profit where it can. The scenario in Air NZ is unique in how they're considered full service, and THAT'S addressed during boarding as well. Mate, I really enjoyed my time in NZ and looking at this from an outside perspective would definitely ensure there are bits worth mentioning. Cheers! 😏
@@ryansofly - I did watch your videos regarding your travel from HLZ to IVC and the dramas you had with LATAM at Auckland airport. I am waiting for your Te Huia train video. Air NZ is a full service airline and I am genuinely interested why you think the scenario with Air NZ is unique in how they're considered full service, and was addressed during boarding as well. Do you have Star Alliance Gold status? The delayed CHC/AKL flight originated from Auckland and there is a number reasons where the service would be running late which usually is congestion or other operational issues in Auckland or from other sector/s that A320 was being used on that day, unless the flight crew advised passengers the delay was due to the previous day bomb scare in Queenstown which is very rare to have an event like that in NZ. Being an Air NZ premium customer, I have experiences with delay jet flights from Christchurch, where priority boarding was suspended to speed up boarding time. By the way, did you get a text alert that the flight was delayed?
@@chrismckellar9350 I only received the text alert during the drama at WLG. Which is why I was a little curious what happened at CHC that day. I'm pretty sure the staff would have been so tired from the mess the day before so I left it at that after that "yes". There was really no announcements from ground staff or the cabin crew about this delay. Suppose a full service airline in my understanding is what Air NZ is, plus full warm meals (sandwich?). Especially when flights are over an hour long. Truth be told, I intentionally didn't do any research before flying domestic because I wanted to experience this would do to the unprepared. 🤣 I know, its silly... But that's how my brain's wired. So Air NZ is unique in a sense it doesn't conform to any industry mould of an LCC (JQ), middle tier (ZL, VA), or full service (everyone else). Or at least that's how I see it. ☺️
Ease up no need to be a dick Ryan does a great job and Im sure he appreciates your feed back but he is not a New Zealander nor does he work for Air New Zealand so the imformation he gave was factual Writing a book on dates,times and figures are only interesting for a small minority of people and there is a more humble way of doing so. All but belittling Ryan is rude and uncalled for Not exceptable at all Oh yes I'm a very well traveled Kiwi so dont tell me to keep my defence of Ryan's vlog imformation silent someone need to tell you to pull your head in 😡
@@tavita8699 - I suggest that you pull your head in. I wasn't belittling him. Ryan is a RUclips influencer and as an influencer he needs to have a balance approach in what he says. He didn't need to keep going about the about his cookies, the delays, about lack of priority boarding for his CHC/AKL flight and questioning Air NZ as a 'full service' airline. If you are 'well traveled Kiwi' as you claim and live in NZ, then you know, that the airline has developed its business model to suit it domestic and international short haul operations for the markets its serves. By the way I 'well traveled domestic and international Kiwi so please don't tell me what I should say.
Thanks for your video. I live in Invercargill. Flying overseas, particularly to North America, is not worth it. Most flights from AKL leave ~ 2200hrs. Yet the lack of connecting flights within NZ has meant that I've had to leave IVC at 0800. Could have crossed the Pacific in the 14hrs between departing IVC and finally departing AKL.
@@ryansofly When I last flew overseas in 2019, there were no direct flights. Now, there is a direct flight that leaves about 1pm from Invercargill. Better than before, but still a long wait in AKL!
Great video Ryan.. Interesting hearing about their investment into Ansett in Australia, a shame for all, Ansett was one airline i liked. Following your videos, off with Bonza to Qld tomorrow & New Zealand next weekend. Thanks for the tips…Really enjoy your content & humorous narrative.. Safe travels, look forward to your next video..
There are many in OZ who still blame Air NZ for AN's demise. But Ansett was already dying anyway. There was no way that airline could've survived in 2000s looking at the way they were. Enjoy Bonza and NZ!
@@ryansofly - Remember it was the Australian Federal government change the 'open skies' agreement to protect Qantas domestic services despite the NZ government allowing Qantas to fly domestically in NZ. That change create the Ansett fiasco. Air NZ board was warned at the time not to buy the remaining 50% of Ansett shares.
@@chrismckellar9350 indeed.... I would love to rehash the Ansett Air NZ fiasco at some point. Ansett was my favourite then compared to QF. I was understandably upset when AN went under, and they died on my birthday too. Sentiments aside, AN was also an incredibly unnecessarily heavy organisation with too much staff and it was a matter of time (with or without Air NZ) they would've buckled when the industry started changing post Y2K.
I found Air NZ nice and fresh because it was my first time. But the Kiwis love them as much as us Aussies love QF. So there is a lot of angst targeted towards that airline by the local populace.
Another interesting video Ryan. Thank you. Air NZ's need to cut costs must explain why, a couple of years ago, it axed its sole European route. London-based kiwis were disappointed. They even started a petition to get Air NZ to change its mind. But without success. Recently Air NZ returned to the expansion trail with its non-stop AKL-JFK service but that flight is maximum range for the 787 so there have been occasions when, weather conditions, has obliged the JFK-AKL flight to make an unscheduled refuelling stop in Nadi (Fiji).
Long haul ops are notoriously expensive especially for such a small airline like Air NZ without the economies of scale. So being publicly listed, suppose they have share holders to answer to as well. So flying all that way to LHR needs to have feed from their transit stops (5th freedom rights) to make this work. And depending on how they fly (via LAX or HKG), feed from trans Tasman must play a part as well. So many factors to make it work. So I hope AKL JFK succeeds, but by golly they need a new JCL product ASAP!
@@ryansofly Agree. London was a costly route to operate (so much competition from sixth-freedom airlines) but for reasons of prestige and having exposure in Europe I thought NZ would continue to operate it. Now it is QF who has stolen the limelight in Europe. Thanks again Ryan.
Air NZ dropped the LAX/LHR route as it was uneconomical to operate and that Air NZ was transitioning to an all B787 fleet to allow for the introduction of ultra long haul services between AKL/JFK, AKL/ORD and AKL/IAH.
@@chrismckellar9350 Of course nothing in aviation is set in stone and now some/all 777-300ERs have been returned to service ! The point I was making to Ryan is that a route to Europe may be uneconomic but a flag-carrier ought to be prepared to operate it at a loss purely for reasons of market presence and prestige. That's what QF thinks and so is expanding its European connections.
@@alexmcwhirter6611- The B777-300ER's will be gone by 2027 replaced at this stage with B78-9's. Like with Qantas with its Project Sunrise, Air NZ sees the future in direct, non-stop, long and ultra long haul flights using the 'extended range' or increased MTOW B787-9 dubbed the 'V3's' which Air New Zealand has being developing with Boeing. The current long term strategy is concentrating on the South Pacific and Asia Pacific regions. With regards to London, there was talk on extending the AKL/ORD to LHR but has been dropped, as having a crew and administration based in London is expensive for 1 service per day. To have a base in London the airline would need at least 2 services per day to over the costs of a London base. Anyway, Air NZ has sold its LHR slots early 2022 Since Air NZ has deep partnerships with Singapore Airlines and United Airlines and a good relationship with Virgin Atlantic, the airline is operating co-share services from Asia and the USA to/from London and other European destinations.
Air New Zealand is a great Airline for international and more popular domestic routes. e.g Auckland - Wellington. They have to good there becasue Jetstar is competition for them. on shorter routes E.G Palmerston north to Auckland there is no competition so they can basically do whatever they want.
I realise locals aren't really a fan of Air NZ. I don't have too much experience with them beyond this trip so I can't say conclusively if I like them or not. Suppose I need to fly them long haul to complete the experience.
40 minutes is nothing to complain about especially after a bomb scare.. Air NZ I have always heard go things about it. You are the only person I have heard complain. For a 2 hour flight approx you complain that you were only served cookies and coffee well you were lucky fly here in Canada you'd be lucky to get anything well small bottle water and small cookie. Unless international flight and flying to USA isn't considered Internationally
Hahahaha mate, if only you've seen the amount I eat. That's why my channel also has videos of me eating at my destination. Oh trust me, I'm not one who fusses over delays and cancellations. But I do take issue with the non communication of it. Cheers! ☺️
@ryansofly1624 Thanks for replying, Ryan Canada is really bad for continent flying, even going to the Caribbean and Mexico, no food, only water cookie. No meals with flights, I think, 4 hours or less. Enjoy your flights. I hope all goes well with your 🍻 👏
I love your commentary good humour. It was unfortunate you experienced our national airline with multiple delays it that bad in general, and it was not your day! Hope you enjoyed your travel thru NZ. Look forward to watching more as a new subscriber
I was told after going through the citizenship test, I would know more about the country than the average Aussie. Suppose the same would be true in reverse, if you took the Singapore citizenship test. Yeah, that flip down screen kept me occupied for the entire flight since it was all clouded over down there.
Sorry you had to experience the classic Air New Zealand disdain for their customers. They know kiwis have no other option when flying domestically so any customer service is viewed as an unnecessary luxury
I am wondering if you’ve been to Aucklands Domestic Airport? Trust me you’d change your opinion about NZ doing airports well. Yes the rest of the country isn’t too shabby Christchurch would be my Fav but really AKL Dom is appalling. I know they are refurbishing this soon but it’s really abysmal.
I've been told AKL is NZ's nonstop construction site. Yes, this flight arrived at the domestic terminal and it was just boarded up left right center. I much prefer the smaller NZ airports .
Ha Ha I like em bigger too 🏳️🌈 oh aircraft...Sorry Moving on Air New Zealand has a terrible delay reputation domestically I supose Kiwi's are used to delays hence just go with the flow It is very sad Ryan that you had to experience the delays and bad weather Such a shame you did not get to eat Bluff oysters our national seafood treasure Once again a very tongue in cheek vlog which I enjoyed very much P.S.Your haircut makes you look so much younger
Like I said, I caught NZ on a string of wrong days which climaxed into a cancellation the next day. Yeah, so I got stranded in Auckland. But that's what makes travel interesting!
Yup, Wellington Airport sucks. If you come in on a Regional flight, it's quite a walk just to get to where the food is and when you get there, you can't afford the food. Heaven help you if you are going Regional to International, it's a hoof and a half and the signs and dark spaces make you feel that you are going in circles. Great if you are hungry, drinking tap water and eating from a bag of sweets you bought for the trip. The Golden Arches have never looked so attractive. The pricing is just as bad, but you know the food hasn't been in a cabinet under lights all day. The décor is awful. The LOTR Kool-Aid was drunk and bathed in! Regional airports are pretty plain and simple and when you get to Wellington, it's like Disneyland. It's just a film or three and it was years ago. Get over it Wellington!
Hahahahahaha I can see obviously you're not a fan of WLG. Suppose it was my first time there so it was an amazing sight. But I understand how that LOTR references could get tired after a while. 🤣
Nothing wrong with Wellington airport. Both Auckland and Christchurch have long walks between regional and domestic boarding gates. By the way, Auckland airport is NZ's longest ongoing construction site plus Auckland domestic terminal is the original terminal when the airport opened in 1965.
Invercargill Airport and Christchurch Airport look very cozy and homely with those wooden touches. Easily beats out the main airports in the larger cities.
They are really beautiful small airports! Very relaxing (but expensive) places to hang out.
@@ryansofly - Aren't all airports😉
@@chrismckellar9350 haha well, spending NZD37 on a Japanese rice bowl in AKL was probably stretching it. 🤣
Great video, brings me back to my memories of flying in NZ. Looking forward to Europe videos!
Ha thanks for popping by.
Cool pilot! Homely announcement! 😊
Indeed it is!
Great trip report buddy! Air NZ does for priority boarding for certain status (ie gold etc) together with Koru club, to which we definitely use. Shame you didn't get to stay in the garden city of Christchurch, we loved it so much, we purchased a property there we'll retire in the next few years! Fun fact, did you know that Christchurch airport has the longest runway in the southern hemisphere, as the US airforce operates flights from there to Antarctica!
I absolutely live for little trivia facts, so thanks for that CHC runway titbit! Yeah unfortunately when I do these trips, it is pretty much a mission oriented event and I don't spend much time at stops. It's either a transit or an overnight rest stop. I'll definitely keep Christchurch in mind! Cheers.
Nice review Ryan, love that classic look on the ANZ ATR’s!
Indeed.... I think Air NZ does black n white so well!
I do enjoy your Cookie Time humour. great video & information. Thanks Ryan
Hahaha thank you for watching! Cheers...
Hi I'm from Westport Buller Region, West Coast South Island.
I love "Wellington Airport." I fly Westport - Wellington - New Plymouth every 3yrs. I enjoy flying. Any season for me. Beautiful Sunrises.
Thanks for sharing! Feel like I missed out so much because of the weather!
4:40 Islanders are a fairly rare aircraft these days. They are not operated in the pacific islands as they once were.
I do want to fly those little planes into Oban! Think that would be pretty exciting.
It gets better Ryan, the Air NZ Airbuses are being withdrawn from service for maintenance on a rolling schedule. More flights have been cut and planes are going to be shuffled to try and make up for the lack of seats.
Air NZ runs a tight ship being such a small airline. So they won't have much room to manoeuvre with those Airbuses down and out.
On time performance has dropped over the last few years - agree 100 percent. However, the alternative discount airline in NZ is also struggling and has a higher cancellations rate. International airlines arriving into New Zealand are also slipping - the result of more frequent weather issues, and a host of other things - crewing - engine replacment delays -- etc.
Welcome to the 21st Century of air travel - and I am not optimistic that this situation will improve globally. I guess one of the contributing reasons is also the economic models have changed radically over the the past few years with increased competition, fuel pricing, and clicking the ticket for the captive passenger in ways that used to be given free as part of the service.
NZ has a small population, and Air NZ almost has a monopoly on domestic flights. Tough choice as the other is Jetstar.
Some of your comments shows a lack of understanding on how Air NZ operates domestically within New Zealand.
Firstly delays. Being an island nation surrounded by sea, weather in the one of the biggest disruptor of flights within New Zealand due to unpredictable localised weather patterns, that can have a ripple effect across both domestic jet services and regional turbo prop services. Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch have both domestic and regional crew bases and Nelson only has a regional crew base, so if there is fog in Auckland and/or wind issues in Wellington and Christchurch or snow/ice issues in Christchurch and Queenstown and lessor extent ice in Dunedin, this can cause major disruptions for both domestic and regional services.
Since you traveled in October, there where alot of weather related disruptions for both Jetstar and Air NZ domestically and occasional international flights.
With regards to the delay at Christchurch, usually the flight crew will tell passengers the reason for the delay of the service.
Secondly, network coverage. Domestic jet (17 A320ceos/2 A321neos) services operate between Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown with 2 return nonstop flights between Auckland and Invercargill. Rest of the coverage is operated by regional turbo prop (ATR72-600 and Q300) aircraft as they are more economical to operate due to variable runway lengths and lower population density, as most regional flight times are 30 to 70 minutes in duration. There are 3 regional airports that certified for A320/B737 operations being Rotoura, Hamilton and Invercargill. Air NZ is the second largest operator in the world for ATR72-600 aircraft, as they are suitable for the country's conditions. Air NZ has 23 Q300's that are suitable for regional destinations like Paihia/Bay of Islands, Whangarei, Gisborne, Hokitika and Oamaru short runways but also back up the ATR's. Air NZ has decide to extend the operational life of the Q300's due to their operational flexibility for regional turbo prop services.
Thirdly. onboard services. After the Ansett Australia fiasco, full service in flight meal service where withdrawn and onboard purchase with introduced and that was withdrawn due to low demand for the product. Since most domestic jets services are 60-70 minutes, there has never been IFE available since the B737 were introduced to domestic services in 1968. A recent survey by Air NZ found, the Q&A entertainment is supported by most locals coupled with mobile device entertainment.
With regards to snacks, the Good Time cookie is the preferred option by locals. Earlier this year, Air NZ announce a review on onboard catering for domestic services. It was proposed to replace the cookie and there was outcry about the possible withdrawing of the cookie by the locals and like with the arrival lollies, they are now a must have for onboard domestic catering.
fourthly. Priority boarding on domestic jet services is available for Star Alliance Gold, Air NZ Gold Elite, Gold and Koru members.
Air NZ is publicly listed company with the NZ government holding 53% of the shares with private and institutional investors having the remain 47%. As a publicly listed company Air NZ is expected to make a profit.
With regards to your comment querying Air NZ as a 'full service' airline, it does operate a LCC/FSC 'Seats to suit fares' business model for short haul Trans Tasman and Pacific Island services only. Medium to ultra long haul services, Air NZ is a full service airline. I have noticed that comments like yours about full service 'status' is usually based on lack of understanding of the airline or misinformation.
You've clearly not paid any attention to my video in its entirety. This video is a continuation from part 1 where the Queenstown fiasco caused much chaos, which I've mentioned numerous times could've spilled over to day 2. Of course an airline is never immune to delays and weather is a huge factor, which I've mentioned in my video during pushback as well. And I've also mentioned I fully accept Air NZ needs to make a profit where it can. The scenario in Air NZ is unique in how they're considered full service, and THAT'S addressed during boarding as well. Mate, I really enjoyed my time in NZ and looking at this from an outside perspective would definitely ensure there are bits worth mentioning. Cheers! 😏
@@ryansofly - I did watch your videos regarding your travel from HLZ to IVC and the dramas you had with LATAM at Auckland airport.
I am waiting for your Te Huia train video.
Air NZ is a full service airline and I am genuinely interested why you think the scenario with Air NZ is unique in how they're considered full service, and was addressed during boarding as well. Do you have Star Alliance Gold status?
The delayed CHC/AKL flight originated from Auckland and there is a number reasons where the service would be running late which usually is congestion or other operational issues in Auckland or from other sector/s that A320 was being used on that day, unless the flight crew advised passengers the delay was due to the previous day bomb scare in Queenstown which is very rare to have an event like that in NZ.
Being an Air NZ premium customer, I have experiences with delay jet flights from Christchurch, where priority boarding was suspended to speed up boarding time.
By the way, did you get a text alert that the flight was delayed?
@@chrismckellar9350 I only received the text alert during the drama at WLG. Which is why I was a little curious what happened at CHC that day. I'm pretty sure the staff would have been so tired from the mess the day before so I left it at that after that "yes". There was really no announcements from ground staff or the cabin crew about this delay.
Suppose a full service airline in my understanding is what Air NZ is, plus full warm meals (sandwich?). Especially when flights are over an hour long. Truth be told, I intentionally didn't do any research before flying domestic because I wanted to experience this would do to the unprepared. 🤣 I know, its silly... But that's how my brain's wired.
So Air NZ is unique in a sense it doesn't conform to any industry mould of an LCC (JQ), middle tier (ZL, VA), or full service (everyone else). Or at least that's how I see it. ☺️
Ease up no need to be a dick
Ryan does a great job and Im sure he appreciates your feed back but he is not a New Zealander nor does he work for Air New Zealand so the imformation he gave was factual
Writing a book on dates,times and figures are only interesting for a small minority of people and there is a more humble way of doing so.
All but belittling Ryan is rude and uncalled for
Not exceptable at all
Oh yes I'm a very well traveled Kiwi so dont tell me to keep my defence of Ryan's vlog imformation silent someone need to tell you to pull your head in 😡
@@tavita8699 - I suggest that you pull your head in. I wasn't belittling him. Ryan is a RUclips influencer and as an influencer he needs to have a balance approach in what he says. He didn't need to keep going about the about his cookies, the delays, about lack of priority boarding for his CHC/AKL flight and questioning Air NZ as a 'full service' airline. If you are 'well traveled Kiwi' as you claim and live in NZ, then you know, that the airline has developed its business model to suit it domestic and international short haul operations for the markets its serves. By the way I 'well traveled domestic and international Kiwi so please don't tell me what I should say.
You wouldn't like Sounds air Westport - Wellington. A 9 seater Aircraft
Hahaha don't get me wrong, I don't mind small aircraft. I used to pilot a Cessna 152, just me and a co pilot. 🤣
Thanks for your video. I live in Invercargill.
Flying overseas, particularly to North America, is not worth it. Most flights from AKL leave ~ 2200hrs. Yet the lack of connecting flights within NZ has meant that I've had to leave IVC at 0800. Could have crossed the Pacific in the 14hrs between departing IVC and finally departing AKL.
Hmm... So there are no evening flights from IVC to AKL?
@@ryansofly When I last flew overseas in 2019, there were no direct flights. Now, there is a direct flight that leaves about 1pm from Invercargill. Better than before, but still a long wait in AKL!
@@JohnSmith-pm6zb yeah sheesh, that's still not ideal. And the nonstop IVC AKL doesn't operate daily as well!
Great video Ryan.. Interesting hearing about their investment into Ansett in Australia, a shame for all, Ansett was one airline i liked. Following your videos, off with Bonza to Qld tomorrow & New Zealand next weekend. Thanks for the tips…Really enjoy your content & humorous narrative.. Safe travels, look forward to your next video..
There are many in OZ who still blame Air NZ for AN's demise. But Ansett was already dying anyway. There was no way that airline could've survived in 2000s looking at the way they were. Enjoy Bonza and NZ!
I miss Ansett- they were great.
@@ryansofly - Remember it was the Australian Federal government change the 'open skies' agreement to protect Qantas domestic services despite the NZ government allowing Qantas to fly domestically in NZ. That change create the Ansett fiasco. Air NZ board was warned at the time not to buy the remaining 50% of Ansett shares.
@@chrismckellar9350 indeed.... I would love to rehash the Ansett Air NZ fiasco at some point. Ansett was my favourite then compared to QF. I was understandably upset when AN went under, and they died on my birthday too. Sentiments aside, AN was also an incredibly unnecessarily heavy organisation with too much staff and it was a matter of time (with or without Air NZ) they would've buckled when the industry started changing post Y2K.
Despite Air NZ being a pseudo LCC, it seems like it is a more pleasant carrier for you than Qantas is.
I found Air NZ nice and fresh because it was my first time. But the Kiwis love them as much as us Aussies love QF. So there is a lot of angst targeted towards that airline by the local populace.
Another interesting video Ryan. Thank you. Air NZ's need to cut costs must explain why, a couple of years ago, it axed its sole European route. London-based kiwis were disappointed. They even started a petition to get Air NZ to change its mind. But without success. Recently Air NZ returned to the expansion trail with its non-stop AKL-JFK service but that flight is maximum range for the 787 so there have been occasions when, weather conditions, has obliged the JFK-AKL flight to make an unscheduled refuelling stop in Nadi (Fiji).
Long haul ops are notoriously expensive especially for such a small airline like Air NZ without the economies of scale. So being publicly listed, suppose they have share holders to answer to as well. So flying all that way to LHR needs to have feed from their transit stops (5th freedom rights) to make this work. And depending on how they fly (via LAX or HKG), feed from trans Tasman must play a part as well. So many factors to make it work. So I hope AKL JFK succeeds, but by golly they need a new JCL product ASAP!
@@ryansofly Agree. London was a costly route to operate (so much competition from sixth-freedom airlines) but for reasons of prestige and having exposure in Europe I thought NZ would continue to operate it. Now it is QF who has stolen the limelight in Europe. Thanks again Ryan.
Air NZ dropped the LAX/LHR route as it was uneconomical to operate and that Air NZ was transitioning to an all B787 fleet to allow for the introduction of ultra long haul services between AKL/JFK, AKL/ORD and AKL/IAH.
@@chrismckellar9350 Of course nothing in aviation is set in stone and now some/all 777-300ERs have been returned to service ! The point I was making to Ryan is that a route to Europe may be uneconomic but a flag-carrier ought to be prepared to operate it at a loss purely for reasons of market presence and prestige. That's what QF thinks and so is expanding its European connections.
@@alexmcwhirter6611- The B777-300ER's will be gone by 2027 replaced at this stage with B78-9's. Like with Qantas with its Project Sunrise, Air NZ sees the future in direct, non-stop, long and ultra long haul flights using the 'extended range' or increased MTOW B787-9 dubbed the 'V3's' which Air New Zealand has being developing with Boeing. The current long term strategy is concentrating on the South Pacific and Asia Pacific regions.
With regards to London, there was talk on extending the AKL/ORD to LHR but has been dropped, as having a crew and administration based in London is expensive for 1 service per day. To have a base in London the airline would need at least 2 services per day to over the costs of a London base. Anyway, Air NZ has sold its LHR slots early 2022
Since Air NZ has deep partnerships with Singapore Airlines and United Airlines and a good relationship with Virgin Atlantic, the airline is operating co-share services from Asia and the USA to/from London and other European destinations.
6:29 The guy staring at your camera/video hahaha. He must be thinking what the heck you were doing or does he look good at that point 😅🫶🤭
Haha yes sometimes the funny things you didn't realise were captured.
@@ryansofly yes absolutely 😄🫶
Ryan vs Kiwi airport staff. Try asking in Maori or a mix of Maori/English "Kiora Bro, wuz 'appening to the plane aye?"
Hahahahaha... I wouldn't dare to do the accent for real! Have you seen the furore it created on the LATAM video?! Lol...
Air New Zealand is a great Airline for international and more popular domestic routes. e.g Auckland - Wellington. They have to good there becasue Jetstar is competition for them. on shorter routes E.G Palmerston north to Auckland there is no competition so they can basically do whatever they want.
I realise locals aren't really a fan of Air NZ. I don't have too much experience with them beyond this trip so I can't say conclusively if I like them or not. Suppose I need to fly them long haul to complete the experience.
40 minutes is nothing to complain about especially after a bomb scare.. Air NZ I have always heard go things about it. You are the only person I have heard complain. For a 2 hour flight approx you complain that you were only served cookies and coffee well you were lucky fly here in Canada you'd be lucky to get anything well small bottle water and small cookie. Unless international flight and flying to USA isn't considered Internationally
Hahahaha mate, if only you've seen the amount I eat. That's why my channel also has videos of me eating at my destination. Oh trust me, I'm not one who fusses over delays and cancellations. But I do take issue with the non communication of it. Cheers! ☺️
@ryansofly1624 Thanks for replying, Ryan
Canada is really bad for continent flying, even going to the Caribbean and Mexico, no food, only water cookie. No meals with flights, I think, 4 hours or less. Enjoy your flights. I hope all goes well with your 🍻 👏
I love your commentary good humour. It was unfortunate you experienced our national airline with multiple delays it that bad in general, and it was not your day! Hope you enjoyed your travel thru NZ. Look forward to watching more as a new subscriber
@@Metuas01 I'm glad you enjoyed and thanks for your support. Much appreciated. Cheers!
but no ducks on the plane? Frankly, disappointing! PS I new it was the WATTLE. didnt know it was Golden though.
I was told after going through the citizenship test, I would know more about the country than the average Aussie. Suppose the same would be true in reverse, if you took the Singapore citizenship test. Yeah, that flip down screen kept me occupied for the entire flight since it was all clouded over down there.
It was feb 2011
Sorry you had to experience the classic Air New Zealand disdain for their customers. They know kiwis have no other option when flying domestically so any customer service is viewed as an unnecessary luxury
Yeah i suppose so... There's no incentive for them to give anymore.
I am wondering if you’ve been to Aucklands Domestic Airport? Trust me you’d change your opinion about NZ doing airports well. Yes the rest of the country isn’t too shabby Christchurch would be my Fav but really AKL Dom is appalling. I know they are refurbishing this soon but it’s really abysmal.
I've been told AKL is NZ's nonstop construction site. Yes, this flight arrived at the domestic terminal and it was just boarded up left right center. I much prefer the smaller NZ airports .
New Zealand seems very wet.
It was Spring when Ryan travelled, so... yes.
That's why NZ is so greeeen! Beautiful!
it is due to being an island national surrounded by sea creating localised unpredictable weather patterns.
Airnz operating revenue of $6.3 billion...they not little but they are tight!! lol
🤣🤣🤣 you can say that again mate!
Ha Ha I like em bigger too 🏳️🌈 oh aircraft...Sorry
Moving on Air New Zealand has a terrible delay reputation domestically
I supose Kiwi's are used to delays hence just go with the flow
It is very sad Ryan that you had to experience the delays and bad weather
Such a shame you did not get to eat Bluff oysters our national seafood treasure
Once again a very tongue in cheek vlog which I enjoyed very much
P.S.Your haircut makes you look so much younger
Like I said, I caught NZ on a string of wrong days which climaxed into a cancellation the next day. Yeah, so I got stranded in Auckland. But that's what makes travel interesting!
Yup, Wellington Airport sucks. If you come in on a Regional flight, it's quite a walk just to get to where the food is and when you get there, you can't afford the food. Heaven help you if you are going Regional to International, it's a hoof and a half and the signs and dark spaces make you feel that you are going in circles. Great if you are hungry, drinking tap water and eating from a bag of sweets you bought for the trip.
The Golden Arches have never looked so attractive. The pricing is just as bad, but you know the food hasn't been in a cabinet under lights all day.
The décor is awful. The LOTR Kool-Aid was drunk and bathed in! Regional airports are pretty plain and simple and when you get to Wellington, it's like Disneyland. It's just a film or three and it was years ago. Get over it Wellington!
Hahahahahaha I can see obviously you're not a fan of WLG. Suppose it was my first time there so it was an amazing sight. But I understand how that LOTR references could get tired after a while. 🤣
That last comment, 😂😂😂,. Just what I thought but dare not say.
Nothing wrong with Wellington airport. Both Auckland and Christchurch have long walks between regional and domestic boarding gates. By the way, Auckland airport is NZ's longest ongoing construction site plus Auckland domestic terminal is the original terminal when the airport opened in 1965.
Ryan so complain
You want 100% red carpet positive only videos? Not here, mate. Nothing but truths here.
U talk too much dude..lol
Do I? 😏
Petition to change this channel name to RyanSoHungry 😂
Thanks for another video bro- looking forward to next week’s adventures. 👍🏽
Chur....! 😏
@@ryansofly 😂
@@ryansofly Ryan when do you pick a winner for the Latam amenities kit?
@@rachkate76 at the end of November... Won't be long.
@@ryansofly no worries- I had forgotten when! 🙂