New Zealand 
Star Alliance About Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand is New Zealand's flag carrier and a Star Alliance member, serving domestic routes and key international markets. Headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand. The airline is a member of Star Alliance.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | Free | NZD $30-$80 prepaid | 50 lb (23 kg) | 158 cm (62 in) total |
| Premium Economy | Free | Free | 50 lb (23 kg) | 158 cm (62 in) total |
| Business Premier | Free | Free | 50 lb (23 kg) | 158 cm (62 in) total |
Additional Bags & Notes
1 bag included on most Economy fares; 2 bags on select Asia/US routes
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Air New Zealand baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Auckland → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.7 x 15.7 x 9 in), 7 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 50 lb (23 kg) — Free (1 bag on most fares)
2nd bag: NZD $30-$80 prepaid
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Auckland → New York (Business Class)
Carry-on: 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.7 x 15.7 x 9 in), 7 kg max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 50 lb (23 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage
⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.
Excess Baggage Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bag / Per Kg | NZD $30-$180 depending on route | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Save up to 50% prepaying extra bags online | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | USD $180 per bag over 23 kg (up to 32 kg) | Per bag exceeding standard weight |
💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
- Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Air New Zealand's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
- Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
- Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
- Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
- Join Airpoints: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Air New Zealand accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.
Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.
Sporting equipment under 2m and ≤23 kg counts as standard bag
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Cellos may travel in cabin with extra seat purchase
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Bike boxes available at NZ airports: NZD $35
Bicycles accepted with mandatory pre-booking.
Handlebars turned, pedals removed, tires deflated to 50%
Wheelchair and mobility aids: Free in cargo
Wheelchairs and mobility aids transported free.
Notify airline 48h ahead; battery wheelchairs need approval
Oversize handling fee for items over 1m in length
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference
Musical Instruments
- Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
- Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
- Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
- Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight
Sports Equipment
- Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
- Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
- Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
- Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length
Hub Airports
Compare Air New Zealand With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.
United States 
Turkey 
Singapore 
Germany