Air New Zealand is looking forward to a positive 2013 after overcoming a challenging period over the past three years. Reporting a 12 per cent fall in net profits, to NZ$71 million, chairman John Palmer said the airline had come through the “though times” in a stronger position.

Air New Zealand has confirmed it will take up the mantel of “official airline” for Middle-earth with the announcement of a global two-movie partnership with The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and The Hobbit: There and Back Again. As part of a new two-year partnership, passengers to and from the UK and North America can look forward to flying on two film-branded Boeing 777 aircraft, enjoy a very special edition of the in-flight safety video and take part in a wide range of upcoming promotions and experiences.

Air New Zealand’s new all black Boeing 777-300ER was treated to a hero’s welcome today as it landed at London Heathrow. The all black Boeing officially begins flying the London – Los Angeles - Auckland route this week and was ceremoniously greeted at the gate by the cabin crew to celebrate.

Air New Zealand is launching a new Airpoints membership card loaded with smart new features intended to transform its popular loyalty card into the ultimate travel companion.

Air New Zealand has ordered seven new-generation ATR72-600 aircraft with purchase options for a further five worth a total list price of US$270 million. At the same time, the national carrier has confirmed it will receive compensation from aircraft manufacturer Boeing following the delayed delivery of the Dreamliner.

In the cut throat world of aviation airlines rarely miss an opportunity to take advantage of a competitor’s misfortune, with Virgin Australia quick to maximise its advantage from the grounding of Tiger Airways. Also today, Air New Zealand confirmed tickets for its codeshare trans-Tasman alliance with Virgin Australia had gone live.