Thai Airways International will resume direct flights to Auckland as part of the strategy to deepen ties between Thailand and New Zealand that include a pledge to accelerate bilateral trade.
Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said on Friday that direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland would return next year to promote trade, tourism, investment and people movement.
While Ms Rachada did not name the airline, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon mentioned THAI.
Restarting the flights was reflected in a joint statement after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Mr Luxon wrapped up their talks in Auckland.
Thai suspended direct services to Auckland after more than three decades when the Covid-19 pandemic stalled global air travel.
Mr Luxon welcomed the return of the Thai flag carrier. "Its return is great news for tourism and trade — making it easier to connect, restoring an important air-freight link and strengthening connections through Bangkok to wider Asia," he said on the New Zealand government website.
The two prime ministers also agreed to triple trade by 2045 and launched a strategic partnership to deepen relations between the two countries.
Their trade target varies as the Thai spokeswoman put the number at US$7.5 billion (246 billion baht), while the New Zealand prime minister mentioned NZ$13.5 billion (263 billion baht).
New Zealand reaffirmed support for Thailand's bid to join the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, according to the joint statement.
- Earlier report: New Zealand and Thailand launch strategic partnership
