Air New Zealand

The Tasman Empire Airways Limited (TEAL) was formed back in 1940. This company would become the forerunner for Air New Zealand. TEAL began buy flying boats. However, they expanded their operations over the years. They had a network from Australia and The Pacific to Asia. Their route network also included the US, Europe and the UK. When you are considering travel it is recommended that you have a suitable travel insurance policy.

The New Zealand and Australian Governments become joint owners of Teal in 1953, with New Zealand taking over full ownership in 1961. Air New Zealand is an international and domestic airline group. They provide both passenger and cargo travel services in New Zealand. They also provide service to and from Australia, the South West Pacific, North America, the United Kingdom and Asia. There are also business units of Air New Zealand that provide engineering and ground handling services. Their subsidiaries provide even more services including: travel wholesaling, retailing services and booking systems.

A flying boat service from Auckland to Tahiti began in 1951. This service was called the Coral Route. After 1960, there were no more scheduled interantional flying boat services. TEAL was renamed Air New Zealand in 1965. International travel services were there only operations at that time. With the introduction of the jet, Air New Zealand was able to expand their operations to North America and Asia.

In April of 1978, Air New Zealand and NAC merged. They become the first New Zealnd carrier offering international and domestic services. Air New Zealand was privatized in 1989. The company was sold for NZ$660 million. The consortium who purchased the airline included Brierley Investments, Quantas, Mapan Airlines and Amercian Airlines.

In the 80’s and 90’s, Air New Zealand continued to expand their travel network. Air New Zealand became a member of the Star Alliance Group in 1999. This is a large alliance of Airlines. Air New Zealand contiues to provide International and Domestic flights.

When travelling on any airline or other mode of transport you should have a travel insurance policy that is valid and will cover you against accidents.