From April 2026, the Airpoints programme transitions to Koru – a new name and a new era of recognition. Air New Zealand CEO Nikhil Ravishankar says Koru is one of the most significant evolutions of the loyalty programme in nearly 30 years.
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“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. We’ve listened to what matters most to our members. We’re proud to be introducing a more rewarding experience that feels simpler, more personal, and unmistakably Kiwi. Koru builds on everything our five million members love about loyalty, shaped and inspired by their feedback.”
Introducing Koru Black
Koru Black is the new highly anticipated 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.
“To say thank you for the continued support of our most frequent flyers, and the miles they’ve travelled with us, we’re gifting a selection of rewards to those who qualify for Koru Black between now and April 2026, before they officially move to their new tier,” Ravishankar says.
Koru Black members can expect:
An additional Recognition Upgrade and short haul Recognition Upgrade
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 just in time for the festive season
More opportunities to unlock recognition faster
And there’s more to come in the New Year
From April 2026 Koru Black members will gain access to some of the airline’s most exclusive benefits including:
Koru Circle – the ability to share some of the comfort and recognition of Koru Black with those who matter most to them. Members can choose from two packages:
Family Package – includes one Koru Black Nominee, and Koru Family Nominees for dependants
Friends Package – includes two Koru Black Nominees
Status Rewards – reaching Status Points milestones will be recognised with special rewards like a Koru Black banked year, or curated gifts and experiences
Access to the new Koru Premier Lounge at Auckland International Airport when it opens
Additional Recognition Upgrades and Valet Parking Vouchers
Enhanced OneUp offers, upweighted by 60 per cent
Full programme refresh
The transition to Koru brings refreshed tiers, additional recognition and a clearer journey for every member.
Koru Bronze – This new base tier makes sure every member is recognised, providing an entry into the world of Koru, with the ability to earn Airpoints and Status Points.
Silver becomes Koru Silver – Access to the benefit of Status Points Bonus (previously Frequent Flyer Status Boost). Earn five bonus Status Points for every ten journeys with Air New Zealand).
Gold becomes Koru Gold – Access to the new benefit of Status Points Top-Up, making it easier for members to retain their tier.
Elite becomes Koru Platinum – Enhanced Status Rewards and access to the new Koru Premier Lounge at Auckland International Airport, landing in late 2026.
Koru Black – Members have access to all current Elite (Koru Platinum) benefits, alongside new and enhanced premium benefits like Koru Circle.
