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The Beginnings of Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand’s story began in April 1940 with its forerunner airline, Tasman Empire Airways Limited (TEAL). TEAL began its first trans-Tasman flights with flying boats. In October 1953 TEAL became jointly owned by the New Zealand and Australian Governments, with the New Zealand Government assuming full ownership in 1961. In addition to TEAL operating international services the New Zealand Government established NZ National Airways Corporation (NAC) in 1947, which was the primary operator of domestic flights. NAC and TEAL would form the basis of what Air New Zealand is today.

Air New Zealand and the Jet Era

TEAL began operating as Air New Zealand Limited in 1965 and provided solely international flights. The same year was the beginning of the jet era for Air New Zealand, which expanded operations to North America and Asia, making Air New Zealand a truly international airline.

Air New Zealand Merger

The merger between Air New Zealand and NAC in 1978 meant the creation of the first New Zealand carrier to offer both international and domestic services.

Privatisation of Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand was privatised in 1989, with the sale of the airline to a consortium comprising of Brierley Investments, Qantas, Japan Airlines and American Airlines for NZ$660 million. Air New Zealand shares were soon listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange that same year. During the 1980s and 1990s Air New Zealand continued to expand its international network, particularly to South-East Asian countries such as Taiwan and Japan.