Thailand to resume direct flights to New Zealand, triple trade to boost ties

Thai Airways International will resume direct flights to Auckland, as part of efforts to strengthen relations between Thailand and New Zealand. These flights will return to the Bangkok-Auckland route in the coming year, according to government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek. The resumption of the flights was confirmed in a joint statement released after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon concluded their talks in Auckland.

Thai had ceased direct services to Auckland more than three decades ago, following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global air travel. New Zealand Prime Minister Luxon expressed his satisfaction with the return of the Thai flag carrier, stating that it would benefit tourism and trade by facilitating easier connections, restoring a crucial air freight link, and enhancing overall ties between Bangkok and the wider Asia region.

Both prime ministers agreed to triple trade by 2045, with Thailand aiming for US$7.5 billion (246 billion baht) in trade and New Zealand targeting NZ$13.5 billion (263 billion baht). Additionally, New Zealand reaffirmed its support for Thailand's bid to join the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.