Air New Zealand Check-In Process: Online, Mobile, and Airport Options

If you're flying with Air New Zealand, preparing for your journey begins with understanding the airline’s flexible and traveler-friendly check-in options. Whether you're traveling on a domestic New Zealand flight or embarking on an international Air New Zealand route, the airline offers several convenient ways to check in. These include Air New Zealand online check-in, mobile app check-in, self-service kiosk check-in, and traditional airport counter check-in.

For most passengers, the easiest method is Air New Zealand online check-in, which becomes available 24 hours before departure. You can check in through the official website by entering your booking reference and last name. For domestic flights within New Zealand, check-in closes 30 minutes before the flight, while for international flights, it closes 90 minutes prior to departure. During online check-in, passengers can select their seats, update Airpoints™ loyalty program information, and access a digital Air New Zealand boarding pass that can be saved to a smartphone or printed at home. This process significantly reduces time spent at the airport, especially for those traveling without checked luggage.

In addition to the website, the Air New Zealand mobile app offers a seamless digital travel experience. Available on both iOS and Android, the app allows passengers to manage their bookings, receive real-time flight status updates, choose or change seats, and check in on the go. You can also use the mobile boarding pass at most New Zealand airports, making your airport experience smoother. For those with bags to check, self-service bag tag kiosks and designated baggage drop-off counters are available at major terminals, including Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

If you prefer in-person service, Air New Zealand airport check-in counters are available and staffed by friendly customer service agents. This is the best option for travelers with special needs, including passengers with reduced mobility, those traveling with unaccompanied minors, or those flying on codeshare flights with Star Alliance partners. Air New Zealand encourages all international travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure, as check-in can close up to 90-120 minutes prior depending on the destination.

offers a variety of check-in options designed to streamline your travel experience, whether you're flying domestically within New Zealand or embarking on an international journey. To ensure a smooth departure, it's essential to understand the available check-in methods and associated timelines.

Online and Mobile Check-In

Passengers can check in online or via the Air New Zealand mobile app starting 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. For domestic flights within New Zealand, online check-in closes 30 minutes before departure, while for international flights, it closes 90 minutes prior. This convenient option allows travelers to select seats, receive boarding passes via email, and, if traveling within New Zealand, scan their boarding pass directly from their phone at the airport. Additionally, passengers can print bag tags at self-service kiosks upon arrival at the airport and proceed to the bag drop if they have checked luggage. 

Airport Check-In

For those who prefer or require in-person assistance, Air New Zealand provides self-service kiosks and staffed check-in desks at various airports. At the kiosks, passengers can choose seats, print boarding passes and bag tags, and then drop off their luggage at designated counters. It's important to note that check-in times vary depending on the flight: for domestic flights, check-in should be completed at least 30 minutes before departure, and for international flights, it's recommended to arrive early, as check-in can close 90 to 120 minutes before departure, depending on the specific flight and airport. 

Special Considerations

Certain passengers may need to check in at the airport, including those traveling with unaccompanied minors, those requiring special assistance, or those with complex itineraries involving partner airlines. In such cases, it's advisable to allow extra time at the airport to complete the check-in process and clear security. 

Additional Services

Air New Zealand's mobile app enhances the travel experience by providing real-time flight updates, gate information, and the ability to manage bookings. Passengers are encouraged to utilize these digital tools to stay informed and make their journey as seamless as possible.

By understanding and utilizing Air New Zealand's check-in options, travelers can ensure a more efficient and stress-free start to their journey.