You can check in for Air New Zealand flights using multiple options designed for passenger convenience. The most popular and efficient method is online check-in, available via the Air New Zealand website or mobile app. Online check-in opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure time and closes 30 minutes prior to domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights. This early access allows you to select your preferred seats, manage your booking, add baggage if needed, and obtain a digital boarding pass. Using online check-in can save significant time at the airport and streamline your travel experience. You can either print your boarding pass or download it to your smartphone for easy access.

For passengers who prefer to check in upon arrival at the airport or cannot complete online check-in, Air New Zealand offers self-service kiosks at many airports. These kiosks typically open 3 to 4 hours before the scheduled departure and close 30 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights. At these kiosks, you can check in, print your boarding pass, and print luggage tags for your checked baggage. After using a kiosk, you must proceed to the bag drop counter to leave your checked luggage with airline staff. Self-service kiosks provide a quick and convenient option to avoid long lines at staffed counters.

If you require assistance or cannot use online or kiosk check-in options, you may check in at the airport counter. Air New Zealand recommends that passengers arrive at least 1 hour before domestic flights and 2 hours before international flights when checking in at the counter. Airport check-in counters open approximately 2 to 3 hours before departure and close 30 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. Checking in at the counter is necessary for passengers traveling with special needs, those who have excess or special baggage, or group travelers exceeding nine passengers. Staff at the counter can assist with seat selection, special requests, and document verification.

When checking in, whether online or at the airport, it is essential to have all necessary travel documents ready. This includes your passport, visas, and any required health declarations or entry forms. Ensuring your documentation is in order before arrival can prevent delays or refusal to board. For international flights, baggage drop usually closes 60 minutes before departure, while for domestic flights, it closes 30 minutes prior. It is crucial to complete check-in and baggage drop within these timeframes to avoid missing your flight.

Group bookings with more than nine passengers often require checking in together at the airport counter. This is to ensure all members of the group are accounted for and seated appropriately. Online check-in may not support large group bookings, so advance planning is advisable.

In summary, Air New Zealand offers flexible check-in options to suit different passenger needs. Online and mobile app check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 30 minutes before domestic and 90 minutes before international flights. Self-service kiosks at airports open 3 to 4 hours prior and close 30 minutes or 90 minutes before flights depending on the route. Airport counters provide personalized service and close 30 minutes before domestic and 60 minutes before international departures. Passengers should arrive early enough to complete check-in, drop off baggage, and clear security, with recommended arrival times of 1 hour before domestic and 2 hours before international flights. Having proper travel documents and following these check-in timelines will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free start to your Air New Zealand journey.