The national carrier posted a bottom-line loss of $40 million in the six months ended December, compared to last year's profit of $106m. The pre-tax loss came in worse than market expectations and the airline's own forecast of between $30m and $55m. Air New Zealand was also undergoing a major review of the business as it looked to cut costs and return to profitability. But it said domestic demand recovery was slower-than-expected, while international performance was supported by strong offshore bookings, particularly for premium cabins. The Qantas and Jetstar domestic businesses continued to record growth in travel demand and delivered underlying earnings before interest and tax of $A1.1 billion.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 26, 2026 13:15 UTC