Tuesday, July 15, 2025
A New Zealand travel boom continues – and Virgin Australia has offered another temptation, a flash sale to New Zealand with up to 30 per cent off fares to Queenstown from Australia’s biggest cities. This highly competitive airfare offer is an incentive to drive demand for trans-Tasman travel leading into the 2025–2026 peak ski and summer adventure seasons. From August 2025 to March 2026, the sale will further stimulate inbound tourism to Queenstown – the adventure playground of New Zealand – and underscore Virgin Australia’s dedication to connecting regional Australia with affordable overseas travel.
Virgin Australia Unleashes Limited-Time Flash Sale with Major Discounts on Queenstown Flights Across Australia
In a thrilling update for adventure-seeking travelers, Virgin Australia has launched a limited-time flash sale offering up to 30% off flights to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adrenaline capital. The promotion, valid for just 72 hours, includes deeply discounted fares from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, Mackay, and Townsville.
Travel Deals to Queenstown Starting from Just $279 One-Way
Travelers can now book flights starting at $279 one-way and $459 return for departures from Sydney and Melbourne, with equally competitive fares available from other major hubs. This flash sale gives Australians the opportunity to explore Queenstown during its most action-packed months—from the powder-filled ski season to the summer’s adventure sports bonanza.
Featured Sale Fares – One-Way and Return Pricing:
| Route | One-Way Fare | Return Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney – Queenstown | $279 | $489 |
| Melbourne – Queenstown | $279 | $459 |
| Brisbane – Queenstown | $319 | $569 |
| Canberra – Queenstown | $359 | $645 |
| Mackay – Queenstown | $399 | $725 |
| Townsville – Queenstown | $369 | $665 |
| Perth – Queenstown | $579 | $1085 |
These discounted fares are available until 11:59 PM AEST on Thursday, July 17, 2025, or until seats are sold out—whichever comes first.
Travel Window Includes Peak Ski and Whitewater Seasons
Eligible travel dates span from August 20, 2025, to March 28, 2026, perfectly aligning with Queenstown’s prime seasons:
- Winter/Ski Season (July–August): Queenstown’s snow-covered slopes make it a top ski and snowboarding destination.
- Spring/Whitewater Rafting (October onward): Thrill-seekers can tackle powerful river rapids as rafting season begins.
- Summer (December–February): Ideal for hiking, lake activities, and day trips to Milford Sound and Fiordland.
This wide travel range caters to every kind of adventurer—from alpine sports lovers to summer explorers.
Velocity Points and Status Credits Now Earned Differently
All discounted fares in this promotion are eligible for Velocity Points and Status Credits, making it even more rewarding for frequent flyers. Members will earn:
- 4 Velocity Points per $1 spent
- Status Credits based on total dollars paid—not on route or fare class
New Earning Structure (Effective April 2025):
- 1 Status Credit per $12 spent on Choice, Flex, Group, and Business fares
- 1 Status Credit per $24 spent on Lite fares
Additionally, starting October 1, 2025, Virgin Australia will adjust its elite status qualification rules. To retain or upgrade to Silver, Gold, or Platinum tiers, at least 50% of your Status Credits must be earned flying with Virgin Australia directly. Credits from partner airlines will no longer suffice on their own.
Why This Sale Matters
This rare Virgin Australia promotion comes at a time when demand for affordable international getaways is surging. Queenstown remains one of the top bucket-list destinations for Australians, offering an unmatched combination of extreme sports, stunning landscapes, and world-class hospitality. From ski runs in The Remarkables to bungee jumps off the Kawarau Bridge and lake cruises under the summer sun, there’s never been a better time—or better fare—to visit.
This limited-time offer will disappear fast. With just 72 hours to book, seats are expected to sell out quickly, especially for the most popular ski-season dates. Whether you’re planning a family escape, a romantic alpine retreat, or an adventure-packed solo trip, these discounted flights to Queenstown make the perfect starting point.
Sale ends: Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM AEST.
Travel dates: August 20, 2025 – March 28, 2026.
The flash Virgin Australia sale is part of an overall Christchurch City push to promote peak season travel from Australia, said Canterbury Development Corporation’s (CDC) Tim Hunter and they are excited for the booking trend to continue. Designed to attract inbound tourism and bolster the region’s adventure tourism-based economy, the sale includes discounted fares and a wide travel window.
Virgin Australia’s exclusive flash sale on flights to Queenstown is a golden chance for Aussies to visit one of New Zealand’s most adrenalin pumping spots at a fraction of the regular price. Whether it’s a wintry ski get-away or warm weather escape, it’s hard to beat this offer which provides great savings and a lot of flexibility. Fly dates start in August 2025 and end in March 2026, and fares are available for as little as $279 one-way, so it’s the ideal opportunity to book your next international escape. Don’t delay—book by 2:59 PM AEST on July 17, 2025, or until seats sell out.
