Both Australians and Kiwis have chosen Air New Zealand as their most trusted, respected and admired brand in an annual survey, which will be welcome news to the airline as it struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic.
It's the fourth year in a row that Air NZ has topped the RepTrak reputation survey in Australia and its top spot on the New Zealand survey put it above Toyota, The Warehouse and Kiwibank.
The airline's chief customer and marketing officer Mike Tod says the news is heartening, especially in the current tourism climate.
"This award belongs to our hardworking people, who despite deep uncertainty about the future, continue to represent our nation and airline with pride, serving our customers with outstanding dedication," Tod said.
"Our Aussie connection began 80 years ago, when we took our first flight to Sydney's Rose Bay in 1940. Australia is Air NZ's largest international market and before COVID-19, at peak times we operated around 375 flights a week across the Tasman.
"We've been overwhelmed by messages of support and care from customers. Thank you Australia, and New Zealand, for continuing to put your faith in us. Our Air New Zealand family can't wait to welcome you on board again, when we can."
Although the possibility of a Trans-Tasman 'bubble' is being talked about more and more, Air NZ has ruled out operating domestic flights within Australia.
