Air New Zealand CEO Nikhil Ravishankar says Koru is one of the most significant evolutions of the loyalty programme in nearly 30 years.
‘Airpoints has been an important part of our story and now, that story is evolving. Koru symbolises care, connection, and renewal. For our members, the name Koru inspires pride, belonging and a sense of place, especially when travelling far from home. Now it’s at the heart of loyalty at the airline.’
Koru Black is the new top-earned tier designed to recognise Air New Zealand’s most loyal members with an elevated level of recognition and rewards. To qualify, members must earn over 3,200 Status Points, including 1,920 from qualifying flights in a year.
Koru Black members can expect an additional Recognition Upgrade and short haul Recognition Upgrade from now; access to an Express Lane trial for aviation security screening at Auckland Domestic Airport between 19-28 November, additional Valet Parking Vouchers delivered on 8 December in time for the festive season; more opportunities to unlock recognition faster; with more to come.
From April 2026 Koru Black members will gain access to some of the airline’s most exclusive benefits. The Koru Circle – the ability to share some of the comfort and recognition of Koru Black with those who matter most to them.
Reaching Status Points milestones will be recognised with special rewards like a Koru Black banked year, or curated gifts and experiences. Members will gain access to the new Koru Premier Lounge at Auckland International Airport when it opens and receive additional recognition upgrades and valet parking vouchers. OneUp offers will be upweighted by 60 per cent.
The transition to Koru brings refreshed tiers, additional recognition and a clearer journey for every member.
‘There’s more on the horizon including introducing new partners, delivering new and exclusive ways to fly with Air New Zealand using Airpoints, and new opportunities to earn Airpoints and Status Points to ensure our members get even more value from every journey,’ says Ravishankar.
