Air New Zealand Seat Selection: How to Choose Your Perfect Seat

When you fly with Air New Zealand, one of the world’s most awarded airlines known for its service, comfort, and innovation, the seat you choose can truly shape your travel experience.

Whether you want to unwind in Business Premier Luxe, enjoy the extra space of Premium Economy, or pick a cozy window seat in Economy, Air New Zealand makes it easy with its Seat Select service. This feature allows you to select your preferred seat before flying, so you can travel exactly the way you like.

Types of Seats on Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand offers a wide range of seat options designed to suit every kind of traveler, from budget-conscious flyers to those seeking an ultra-luxury experience in the sky. Each seat type provides its own level of comfort, space, and convenience, allowing you to customize your journey the way you like.

• Standard Seat.

• Preferred Seat.

• Exit Row Seat.

• Bassinet Seat.

• Neighbor Free Seat.

• Economy Stretch Seat.

• Business Premier Preferred & Luxe Seats.

• Multiseat (exclusive on select routes).

• Legroom

Each option is designed to enhance your experience, whether you’re traveling short-haul within New Zealand or across the world.

Description and Benefits of Each Type of Seat

Standard Seat

Standard Seats are the foundation of Air New Zealand’s Economy experience, offering comfort, convenience, and value for every traveler. A great choice for those who want an affordable and comfortable option without paying extra for premium features.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Available on all domestic and international flights.

• Complimentary for flexible fares and Airpoints™ Elite, Gold, Elite Partner, and Koru members.

• A small fee applies for lower-cost fares such as Seat Only or Seat+Bag.

• You can change to another seat of the same or lesser value anytime.

• If you don’t select a seat in advance, one will be automatically assigned free of charge at check-in.

• On long-haul international routes, Standard Seats may be available free of charge 24 hours before departure when online check-in opens.

Preferred Seat

Preferred Seats are located in prime spots on the aircraft, such as the forward rows or popular window and aisle positions, making your journey more convenient and comfortable. It is perfect for travelers who like being among the first to board or disembark, or simply prefer a more convenient spot on the plane.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Positioned in desirable areas for quicker boarding and faster exit on arrival.

• Some Preferred Seats also offer extra legroom for added comfort.

• Available for purchase to all passengers.

• Complimentary for Airpoints™ Elite, Gold, Elite Partner, and Koru members within 48 hours of departure, if seats remain unsold.

Exit Row Seat

For travelers who value extra space, Exit Row Seats are the best choice. These seats offer generous legroom and open space, ideal for stretching out on longer journeys. These seats are perfect for comfort seekers who don’t mind taking on a bit of extra responsibility for the benefit of extra space and freedom of movement.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Provides significantly more legroom and comfort.

• Perfect for taller passengers or those wanting extra personal space.

• Comes with added responsibility, passengers must meet safety requirements:

• Be at least 15 years old.

• Have a good understanding of English.

• Be physically able and willing to assist in an emergency.

• Exit Row Seats are subject to crew verification and may be reassigned if eligibility criteria aren’t met.

Bassinet Seat

Bassinet Seats are specially designed for families traveling with infants, offering comfort and convenience on long journeys. These seats come equipped with bassinets and are available on select Boeing 777-300 and 787-9 aircraft. It’s a must-have for parents traveling with babies, providing peace of mind and an easier in-flight experience.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Suitable for infants up to 11.8 kg (26 lb).

• Two bassinet sizes available: approximately 69 cm × 31 cm and 67 cm × 35 cm (tapering to 15 cm).

• Conveniently located in front-row sections for easy access and space.

• Limited in number, pre-booking is strongly recommended. Look for the bassinet icon when choosing seats on the seat map.

Neighbour Free Seat

The Neighbour Free Seat option allows you to reserve the seat beside you in Economy, giving you more personal space and comfort throughout your journey. These are perfect for solo travelers who want extra elbow room or a quieter, more relaxed flight experience without moving up to a higher cabin class

Key Details and Benefits:

• Guarantees the adjacent seat remains empty for extra room and privacy.

• Cannot be used for lying across or storing personal items.

• Available on select flights as a paid SeatSelect option.

• Offered only to the passenger named on the ticket.

Economy Stretch

The Economy Stretch seats are designed to make long-haul travel more comfortable, offering extra space and a few premium touches. Available exclusively on select routes such as Auckland–Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston, these seats are located in the forward section of the Economy cabin. Ideal for travelers who want enhanced comfort and space on long flights without upgrading to Premium Economy or Business Class.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Extra legroom for a more relaxed journey.

• Includes an upgraded pillow and premium headset.

• Complimentary for Airpoints™ Elite members from the time of booking.

• Available for purchase or free within 48 hours of departure for Gold, Elite Partner, and Koru members (if unsold).

Multiseat (Preferred Seating)

The Multiseat option offers a unique level of comfort in Economy class, giving one traveler exclusive use of an entire row of three seats. Perfect for long-haul travelers who want the comfort of extra space and privacy without upgrading to a higher cabin class.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Available exclusively on the New York–Auckland route.

• Guarantees a full row of three Economy seats for a single passenger.

• Allows you to lift the armrests and stretch out for added relaxation.

• Available as a Preferred Seating option in the forward Economy cabin.

Legroom Seats

Legroom Seats are a great choice for travelers who want extra space without upgrading to Premium Economy. These seats are located in the forward section of the Economy cabin on flights between New Zealand, Australia, and Pacific Island destinations.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Extra legroom for added comfort on medium-haul journeys.

• Conveniently positioned towards the front of the aircraft for faster boarding and exit.

• Available for purchase through SeatSelect, or complimentary for eligible Airpoints™ Elite, Gold, Elite Partner, and Koru members within 48 hours of departure (if unsold).

These seats offer a comfortable balance of value and space, making them ideal for frequent travelers who want a little more room to relax.

Business Premier and Business Premier Luxe

Air New Zealand’s Business Premier cabins redefine premium travel, blending luxury, privacy, technology, and cutting-edge comfort for long-haul journeys. Ideal for travelers seeking a luxury experience in the air, combining award-winning service, advanced technology, and thoughtful design that turns every long-haul flight into a restful retreat.

Key Details and Benefits:

• Business Premier: Available on the Boeing 777-300ER, this cabin features a fully lie-flat bed, premium dining, an in-seat massage function, and a personal closet for your belongings.

• Business Premier Luxe™: Exclusive to the Boeing 787-9 (v4), this next-generation suite offers a sliding privacy door, guest seat, wireless charging, a 24-inch 4K HD screen, and an 80-inch lie-flat bed for ultimate comfort.

How to Select Seats on Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand makes seat selection easy and flexible through its SeatSelect service, allowing you to secure your preferred spot before you fly. There are several ways to select your seat:

• During booking: Choose your seat directly from the interactive seat map when booking your flight online.

• After booking: Retrieve your booking or sign in to your Air New Zealand account to select or change your seat anytime.

• By phone: Call the Air New Zealand Contact Center (note: service fees apply).

If your fare or Airpoints™ status includes complimentary Standard Seating, you can select your seat at no extra cost. Otherwise, you can easily purchase your preferred seat using paid SeatSelect for more comfort and choice.

When can I select seats?

You can purchase SeatSelect at almost any stage before your flight, giving you full control over where you sit.

Timing and Options:

• Up to three hours before departure for international flights.

• Up to 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights.

• You can also pay for SeatSelect using Airpoints Dollars at the time of booking.

If you prefer not to choose in advance, Air New Zealand will automatically assign you a seat for free during check-in.

Does Air New Zealand Charge for Seat Selection?

Yes, depending on the fare type, route, and seat category. Here’s a simplified breakdown (USD “from” prices):

All Business Class and WorksDeluxe bookings include free SeatSelect.

Airpoints™ Elite, Gold, Elite Partner, and Koru Member Benefits

Frequent flyers enjoy extensive complimentary seating privileges:

• Free access to Frequent Flyer Premium Seating near the front of most cabins.

• Free Standard Seats regardless of fare.

• Free Preferred/Exit Row Seats within 48 hours of departure (if unsold).

• Economy Stretch seats are free for Elite members on select U.S. routes.

Air New Zealand Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class Seats

• Economy Class: Budget-friendly, comfortable, and perfect for short- to medium-haul flights. Options include Standard, Preferred, Economy Stretch, and Skycouch™.

• Premium Economy: Wider seats, greater recline, premium dining, two-bag allowance, and free standard seat selection.

• Business Premier or Luxe: Full lie-flat beds, premium meals and wines, priority check-in, lounge access, and advanced tech comforts.

FAQs About Air New Zealand Seat Selection

Q.1: Do I have to pay to select a seat on Air New Zealand?

• Not always. Seat selection is free for flexible fares, Premium Economy, Business Class, and eligible Airpoints™ members. Other fares may require a small fee depending on the seat type and route.

Q.2: When can I choose my seat?

• You can select a seat at the time of booking or anytime up to 3 hours before international flights and 30 minutes before domestic flights.

Q.3: Can I change my selected seat later?

• Yes. You can change to another seat of equal or lesser value anytime through your booking, account, or the Air NZ app.

Q.4: What happens if I don’t select a seat?

• Air New Zealand will automatically assign you a seat for free when you check in.

Q.5: Can I pay for SeatSelect using Airpoints Dollars?

• Yes, you can use Airpoints Dollars to pay for seat selection at the time of booking.

Q.6: Are exit row seats available to everyone?

• No. You must meet safety requirements (age 15+, fluent in English, physically able to assist in emergencies) to sit in exit rows.

Q.7: Which seats offer extra space or comfort?

• Options like Preferred Seats, Exit Row, Economy Stretch, Neighbour Free Seat, and Business Premier Luxe provide extra room and added comfort.

Choose Smart, Fly Better with Flightsquest

The seat you choose can define your entire journey. Whether you prefer the comfort and value of Air New Zealand economy seats, the added space of Air New Zealand premium economy seats, or the luxury of Air New Zealand business class seats, there’s an option for every traveler. With SeatSelect, it’s easy to learn how to select seats on Air New Zealand and secure your preferred spot in advance.

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Visit Flightsquest today to compare fares, book your preferred Air New Zealand seats, and travel in total comfort and confidence.