Flying Domestic in NZ with Kids — Air NZ Tips, Baggage, and Seat Selection

As a parent, flying domestic in New Zealand with kids can be a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks, it can be a breeze. For instance, did you know that Air NZ offers a 'Skycouch' option for families, which can be booked for as little as $200-$300 NZD, depending on the route? With multiple routes to choose from, including popular destinations like Queenstown, Christchurch, and Wellington, it's essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for the whole family.

By Benjamen Updated July 2026 9 min read

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Air NZ Domestic Flights with Kids

When flying with kids on Air NZ domestic flights, it's crucial to consider the baggage allowance. Each passenger, including children, is allowed one carry-on bag weighing up to 7kg, and one checked bag weighing up to 23kg. Additionally, kids' strollers and car seats can be checked for free. It's also worth noting that Air NZ offers a 'Kids' Pack' on some flights, which includes a toy, coloring book, and snacks, available for $10 NZD.

Family Seating Options

Skycouch: A row of three economy seats that can be converted into a flat surface, perfect for families with young children, priced from $200-$300 NZD
Standard Seats: Individual seats with a 79cm pitch, suitable for older kids and adults
Exit Row Seats: Seats with more legroom, located near emergency exits, available for an additional $20-$50 NZD per seat

Baggage Allowance and Fees

Bag Type	Weight Limit	Fee
Carry-on Bag	7kg	Free
Checked Bag	23kg	Free
Additional Checked Bag	23kg	$20-$30 NZD
Oversized Bag	Up to 32kg	$50-$100 NZD

Queenstown vs Christchurch vs Wellington Routes

When deciding which route to take, consider the drive time and cost of activities at each destination. For example, flying from Auckland to Queenstown takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes, and costs around $150-$300 NZD per person, depending on the time of year. In contrast, flying from Auckland to Christchurch takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes, and costs around $100-$250 NZD per person. Wellington is another popular destination, with flights from Auckland taking around 1 hour and 5 minutes, and costing around $80-$200 NZD per person.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Book seats in advance to ensure family seating
Check-in online and print or download boarding passes to save time
Pack essentials like snacks, entertainment, and extra clothes in carry-on bags
Consider booking a morning flight to avoid peak traffic and long queues

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Accommodation Options for Families

Once you arrive at your destination, consider booking family-friendly accommodation, such as the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, which offers rooms from $250-$400 NZD per night, or the Rydges Wellington, which offers rooms from $200-$350 NZD per night. You can also explore campervan options, which can be a fun and affordable way to travel with kids, with prices starting from $100-$200 NZD per day.

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