Air New Zealand is consistently ranked as one of the best airlines in the world, frequently appearing in the top five of the AirlineRatings.com "Airline of the Year" awards. As of 2026, the carrier is particularly praised for its operational reliability, recently ranking 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region for on-time performance. Passengers often rave about the "Kiwi hospitality" provided by the crew and the airline's innovative cabin features, such as the Skycouch, which allows a row of three economy seats to transform into a flat bed. While the airline is currently navigating some financial challenges and fleet maintenance issues (specifically with Boeing 787 engines), its safety record and commitment to passenger comfort remain industry-leading. For long-haul travelers, their Premium Economy is often cited as the best in the business, offering a service level that rivals many other airlines' Business Class. Overall, if you are flying to Oceania, Air New Zealand is widely considered the gold standard for both service quality and the quirky, friendly personality reflected in its famous safety videos.