Selecting your seat +64-9-886-0051 in advance can make a big difference in your travel comfort. Whether you prefer a window view, extra legroom, aisle access, or sitting with family, Air New Zealand provides several easy ways to choose your seat before departure.
This detailed guide explains all the methods, seat types, fees, policies, and helpful tips to ensure you secure the best seat for your journey.
There are several convenient ways to choose your seat:
During Flight Booking (Online)
After Booking via “Manage Booking”
Through the Air New Zealand Mobile App
At Online Check-In
At the Airport Check-In Counter or Kiosk
By Calling Customer Support at +64-9-886-0051
Each method is explained below in detail.
This is the easiest and most recommended method.
Visit the official Air New Zealand website.
Search for your flight by entering:
Departure city
Destination
Travel dates
Passenger details
Choose your preferred flight.
On the passenger details page, you will see the Seat Selection option.
A seat map will appear.
Select your preferred seat.
Confirm your choice and proceed with payment (if applicable).
Maximum seat availability
Better chances of securing preferred seats
Easier family seating arrangements
Avoid last-minute stress
3. Selecting Seats After Booking (Manage Booking Option)
If you skipped seat selection during booking, don’t worry.
Go to the airline’s website.
Click on “Manage Booking”.
Enter:
Booking reference number
Last name
Access your reservation.
Click on Seat Selection.
View the seat map.
Choose available seats.
Pay any applicable seat selection fees.
Confirm changes.
This option is available until online check-in closes.
The mobile app provides an easy way to select seats.
Download the Air New Zealand mobile app (iOS or Android).
Log in or retrieve booking using your booking reference.
Open your flight details.
Tap “Select Seat.”
Choose from the seat map.
Confirm and pay if required.
This method is ideal for travelers who prefer managing bookings on their phone.
Online check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure.
If you did not pre-select a seat:
Check in online.
The system will assign a seat automatically.
You may have the option to change it depending on availability.
However:
Seat availability may be limited.
Preferred seats may already be taken.
If you wait until airport check-in:
You can request a seat at the counter.
Staff may accommodate preferences.
Options depend on availability.
This is not recommended during busy travel seasons.
If you prefer speaking to a representative, call:
+64-9-886-0051
Customer support can:
Help you select seats
Explain seat types and fees
Assist with family seating
Help passengers with special needs
Make changes to existing bookings
Keep your booking reference ready before calling.
Understanding seat types helps you choose wisely.
Regular economy seats
Located throughout the cabin
Most affordable option
Closer to the front of the cabin
Faster boarding and exit
May include better location
More space to stretch
Ideal for taller passengers
Subject to safety eligibility requirements
A row of seats that converts into a couch
Ideal for couples or families
Available on long-haul flights
Wider seats
More recline
Better meal service
Lie-flat beds
Premium dining
Priority boarding
Seat availability varies by aircraft type and route.
Seat selection fees depend on:
Fare type
Route (Domestic vs International)
Seat category (standard, preferred, extra legroom)
Travel class
Some premium fares include free seat selection.
Elite loyalty members may receive complimentary seat selection.
Fees are usually per passenger per flight segment.
Always review the fare conditions before booking.
You may be eligible for free seat selection if:
You booked a flexible or higher-class fare.
You are an elite loyalty member.
You are traveling in Premium Economy or Business Class.
You require medical or special assistance seating.
Contact +64-9-886-0051 to confirm eligibility.
Airlines try to seat children with at least one accompanying adult.
Tips:
Book early.
Select seats during booking.
Contact customer service for family seating support.
Arrive early at airport if seats weren’t pre-selected.
For guaranteed seating together, early seat selection is recommended.
Passengers who need:
Wheelchair assistance
Mobility support
Medical accommodations
Extra space for medical devices
Should contact customer service in advance at +64-9-886-0051.
Exit row seats are generally not permitted for:
Passengers with limited mobility
Children
Pregnant passengers
Travelers requiring assistance
You can change seats:
Via Manage Booking
Through the mobile app
By calling customer support
During online check-in (if available)
Note:
Changes may incur additional fees.
Refunds for seat selection depend on fare conditions.
Refunds may be possible if:
The airline changes your flight.
Aircraft type changes.
You are moved to a different seat involuntarily.
Flight is canceled.
Voluntary changes may not be refundable depending on fare rules.
The earlier you book, the more seat options you’ll see.
Long-haul aircraft often have different seat maps.
Seats near lavatories may have limited recline.
Great for sleeping and views.
Ideal for frequent movement.
Especially on international flights.
You can usually select seats:
Immediately after booking
Anytime before check-in closes
During online check-in (limited availability)
Seat maps may change if aircraft changes.
Refresh browser
Try different device
Use mobile app
Call +64-9-886-0051
You may not meet eligibility criteria
Contact customer support
Aircraft swap
Operational reasons
Contact support if unhappy with reassignment
International flights often offer more seat categories.
Domestic flights may have fewer premium seat options.
Group bookings should select seats early.
Loyalty members may receive priority seating.
Selecting seats on Air New Zealand is simple and flexible. You can:
Choose seats during booking
Manage seats online afterward
Use the mobile app
Select during check-in
Call +64-9-886-0051 for direct assistance
For the best experience:
Select seats as early as possible
Review seat types carefully
Understand fees and fare rules
Contact support for special requirements
Planning ahead ensures a comfortable and stress-free journey.
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