Qatar Airways begins daily nonstop flights from Doha to Auckland on October 1 using Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Each flight offers 358 seats in business economy and economy cabins. The 16-hour journey covers 14500 kilometers making it the airline's longest route.
The schedule departs Doha at 0845 and arrives Auckland at 0705 the next day. Return flights leave Auckland at 2145 and reach Doha at 0525. Codeshare partners British Airways and Air New Zealand will sell seats from day one.
Qatar currently serves Auckland via a stop in Perth. The new nonstop replaces that connection and adds 42000 extra seats annually. Auckland Airport confirmed terminal upgrades to handle the increased wide-body traffic.
What this means for you
Book business class early as introductory fares start at 2450 dollars round-trip until August 31. Economy fares begin at 1150 dollars with free date changes allowed once. Connect through Doha from 40 European cities without additional visa requirements.
Passengers should arrive at Auckland three hours before departure due to new security screening for long-haul flights. Avoid checking bags heavier than 23 kilograms in economy to prevent excess fees.
The route is projected to carry 155000 passengers in its first 12 months of operation.