Does Air New Zealand Have First Class? Discover Its Premium Economy Upgrade

The Truth Behind “Air New Zealand First Class”

If you are wondering “Does Air New Zealand have first class?”, here’s the clear answer: Air New Zealand does not offer a traditional first-class cabin on any of its current aircraft.

Instead, the airline focuses on a three-tier experience that is Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Premier™, each designed to balance comfort, Kiwi hospitality, and value. The airline’s Premium Economy cabin is where most travelers find that sweet spot between affordability and elevated luxury.

Air New Zealand has been consistently recognized for innovation and customer care, recently earning multiple awards for its onboard service and sustainability initiatives. While “first class” is absent from its booking page, the Premium Economy cabin delivers a surprisingly upscale experience that rivals many competitors’ business-class products.

Also Read: “Air New Zealand Seat Options & Selection Guide”

What to Expect in Air New Zealand’s Premium Economy

Premium Economy Seats:

Say goodbye to cramped rows. Air New Zealand’s Premium Economy seats are wider, softer, and designed to make long flights more relaxing.

Each leather seat offers:

• Extra legroom and recline so you can stretch out comfortably

• Adjustable headrest, leg rest, and foot support for better posture and rest

• Generous armrests and extra storage space for personal items

• In-seat power (AC plug and USB-A) to keep your devices charged

• Premium headphones for clear, immersive entertainment

• Free in-flight Wi-Fi on most aircraft to stay connected in the air.

These features create a personal bubble of comfort and are ideal for travelers who want to arrive refreshed without paying business-class fares.

Premium Cuisine and Beverages:

Dining in Air New Zealand’s Premium Economy is all about celebrating the flavors of Aotearoa. Inspired by manaakitanga, the Māori tradition of hospitality, every meal is prepared with warmth and attention to detail.

You can enjoy dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of modern New Zealand cuisine. Each meal is paired with a curated selection of local wines from top Kiwi vineyards. From hearty mains to indulgent desserts, every bite is thoughtfully crafted to bring a true taste of New Zealand to your journey.

In-flight Entertainment:

Passengers in Premium Economy enjoy hours of on-demand entertainment from gate to gate with blockbuster films, new TV releases, documentaries, and curated playlists. Every seat features a high-resolution touchscreen with USB connectivity, allowing you to stay entertained or productive throughout the journey.

Priority Check-in, Boarding, and Baggage Privileges:

Your upgraded experience begins well before you step on board. As a Premium Economy traveler with Air New Zealand, you’ll enjoy a smoother, faster airport journey designed to make travel stress-free.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Access to premium check-in counters for a quicker and more personalized service.

• Priority boarding with Air New Zealand and select Star Alliance partner airlines, so you can settle in early and enjoy your seat sooner.

• Priority baggage handling upon arrival, ensuring your luggage is among the first to reach the carousel.

In addition to these perks, baggage privileges include:

• Two carry-on bags (up to 7 kg each, total 14 kg combined, with no single item exceeding up to 10kg).

• Two checked bags (up to 23 kg each, or 50 lb).

These thoughtful extras give you a seamless, premium start and finish to your trip, just another reason Air New Zealand’s Premium Economy is a smarter way to fly.

Amenity Kit

Every Premium Economy passenger on long-haul flights receives a beautifully designed amenity kit, a thoughtful touch that reflects Air New Zealand’s care and connection to home.

The kit includes essential travel items and therapeutic skincare products by Aotea, a New Zealand brand known for using native flora and traditional Māori methods to create natural, soothing formulas. Each product is crafted to nourish and hydrate your skin during the flight, helping you arrive feeling refreshed.

It’s a small but meaningful gesture, Air New Zealand’s way of sharing a piece of Aotearoa with you while you’re in the air.

Service and Hospitality:

Warm, genuine, and distinctly New Zealand, that’s what defines Air New Zealand’s service and hospitality. The airline’s cabin crew is known for their friendly, down-to-earth approach that makes every traveler feel welcome.

In Premium Economy, you’ll enjoy attentive yet relaxed service throughout your journey. The crew takes pride in showcasing New Zealand’s spirit of manaakitanga, the Māori tradition of caring for guests with respect and warmth.

Whether you’re being served a glass of wine, enjoying your meal, or settling in for a movie, their thoughtful attention and genuine smiles create a travel experience that feels both personal and memorable.

Air New Zealand Premium Economy Price

While the airline doesn’t list fixed fares, Premium Economy seats typically cost around 1.5 to 2 times the price of Economy, depending on the route and demand. On trans-Pacific flights (such as Los Angeles – Auckland or London – Auckland), this upgrade often delivers outsized value for the added comfort and perks.

For those searching “Air New Zealand first class price”, Premium Economy is the best available “first-class alternative”, offering upscale travel without business-class pricing.

Air New Zealand Premium Economy at a Glance

FAQs About Air New Zealand First Class

Q1. Does Air New Zealand have First Class?

No, Air New Zealand does not currently offer a First Class cabin. The top-tier experience is Business Premier™, followed by Premium Economy.

Q2. What are the Air New Zealand Premium Economy seats like?

They’re wide, leather recliners with leg rests, adjustable headrests, power outlets, and Wi-Fi access. Comfort levels are well above standard economy.

Q3. How much is Air New Zealand Premium Economy?

Prices vary by route, but on average, Premium Economy costs about 1.5 to 2 times more than Economy.

Q4. Are meals included in Premium Economy?

Yes, passengers enjoy multi-course meals made with seasonal New Zealand ingredients and premium beverages, including wines.

Q5. What baggage allowance comes with Premium Economy?

Two carry-on bags (up to 7 kg each) and two checked bags (up to 23 kg each).

Q6. Do Premium Economy passengers get lounge access?

Lounge access is not included with Premium Economy tickets but is available for purchase or through elite frequent-flyer status.

Q7. Is Premium Economy worth it on Air New Zealand?

Absolutely, for long-haul routes, the extra space, premium meals, priority service, and Wi-Fi make it one of the best mid-tier upgrades in the sky.

Your Smart Path to “First-Class” Comfort

If you’re searching for an Air New Zealand First Class review, or wondering, Does Air New Zealand have first class? Then here’s the answer: the airline doesn’t have a traditional first class. However, its Premium Economy cabin delivers a “first-class” feel through spacious leather seats, quality dining, and warm Kiwi hospitality.

The Air New Zealand Premium Economy seats offer exceptional comfort, while perks like priority check-in, fast boarding, and easy online check-in add extra convenience. And compared to the typical Air New Zealand First Class price, Premium Economy offers remarkable value for the experience you get.

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