Airlines and operators
Whakatāne Airport works with multiple airlines and operators to support regional travel, making it easy to connect for business or leisure. Whether travelling for work, exploring the Eastern Bay of Plenty, or taking to the skies for a scenic tour, the airport provides a gateway to destinations across the region and beyond.
Air Chathams
Air Chathams is the primary airline servicing Whakatāne Airport, operating daily flights between Whakatāne and Auckland and providing a vital link between the Eastern Bay of Plenty and New Zealand’s largest city. Through its interline partnership with Air New Zealand, travellers can book a single ticket to connect seamlessly via Auckland to Air New Zealand’s domestic network, with coordinated baggage transfer for a smoother, hassle-free journey.
The airline operates a modern fleet of large turboprop aircraft, offering a comfortable and reliable travel experience, complete with Air Chathams’ signature in-flight Tim Tam service. Beyond Whakatāne, Air Chathams also connects Auckland with Whanganui, the Kāpiti Coast, and the Chatham Islands, and operates services from Christchurch and Wellington to the Chatham Islands.
Air Chathams and Air New Zealand Interline Agreement
In December 2025, an interline agreement between Air Chathams and Air New Zealand was signed, strengthening regional connectivity for the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Travellers can book a single ticket combining both airlines’ services, with through check-in of baggage and seamless connections via Auckland to destinations across New Zealand. The partnership makes journeys to and from Whakatāne simpler and more convenient, improving access for residents, businesses and visitors while linking the region to Air New Zealand’s wider domestic and international network.
To book flights between Whakatāne and Auckland, please use the Air Chathams website.
For flights between Whakatāne and other cities in New Zealand, please book through the Air New Zealand website.
Sunair
Sunair operates flights between Whakatāne and Gisborne, Hamilton, and Napier, providing convenient connections that make travel for work, family, or leisure easier.
Sunair Aviation is a privately owned New Zealand airline with over 40 years of flying experience. From its beginnings as a commuter service to Motiti Island, the airline has grown to operate a fleet of twin- and single-engine aircraft, offering scheduled flights, scenic tours, charter services, and flight training.
White Island Tours/Air Ruatoria
Authentic Cultural Scenic Flights in New Zealand
Phone: 0800 944 834
Kāhu NZ
Heavy Lifting Helicopter Services in NZ, South Pacific and Australasia.
Phone: 0800 804 354 (NZ only) or +64 7 308 4188
