Air New Zealand has launched Dream Seats, a nationwide initiative aimed at helping over 100 New Zealanders move closer to their aspirations through free flights—both within Aotearoa and internationally.
The programme, which opened today, seeks to support the passion, drive, and ambition of Kiwis by offering travel that can assist them in taking the next step toward achieving their dreams. The initiative is positioned as part of the airline’s ongoing commitment to backing New Zealanders who are already working hard to make a difference.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran said the campaign aligns with the company’s belief in the potential of New Zealanders to positively impact their communities and the world.
“At Air New Zealand, we've always believed in the potential of New Zealanders to make a positive impact both at home in Aotearoa and globally. Dream Seats is an extension of that belief, a way for us to support those who are already striving and just need that extra lift to take their dream further,” Foran said.
“Whether it's sport, business, science or the arts, Aotearoa is full of remarkable people doing incredible things. We're proud to play a small part in helping more of them go further. This is not a one-off campaign, it's part of our enduring commitment to champion Kiwi success, here at home and on the global stage.”
To support the initiative, several high-profile New Zealanders have joined the campaign as ambassadors. Each will select two applicants to receive Dream Seats and provide mentoring support.
The ambassadors include:
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Ryan Fox, NZ golfing legend and two-time PGA Tour winner
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Dame Valerie Adams, two-time Olympic gold medalist
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Shaun Johnson, professional rugby league player and podcast host
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Josh Emett, chef and entrepreneur
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Simran Kaur, financial educator and podcast host
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Tom Sainsbury, comedian, writer, and performer
Chef Josh Emett, reflecting on his own journey, said he left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London and a dream of making it in the food world.
“I worked in some of the toughest kitchens and eventually earned a place in Gordon Ramsay's team. I know how powerful it is when someone backs your potential and now, I want to do the same for another Kiwi. I’ll be looking for someone who's already put in the work and just needs that extra push to go further,” he said.
NBA star Steven Adams is also supporting the programme. Air New Zealand acknowledged his continued impact on and off the court as a source of inspiration for New Zealanders.
Applications for Dream Seats are now open at dreamseats.co.nz, where New Zealanders can share their story and explain how travel could help them build momentum toward their goals.
Foran reiterated that the campaign is about recognising existing effort.
“This isn't about granting wishes. It's about backing New Zealanders who are already doing the hard work and helping them take the next step, not just in their journey, but in their lives.”
The airline is encouraging Kiwis from Cape Rēinga to Bluff to apply, stating that every great journey starts with a single step—and this could be it.
Ambassadors also shared personal reflections on the role of travel and support in their success:
Ryan Fox said that representing New Zealand on the world stage—whether at the Olympics, on the PGA Tour, or at Augusta—took years of hard work, a lot of travel, and time away from family. He said support systems made all the difference and that Dream Seats holds personal meaning for him.
Shaun Johnson recalled that his international success began at home, playing for the Warriors and grinding through the early days. He said travel opened doors, but it was the support behind the scenes that got him there. “That’s what Dream Seats is all about,” he said, adding that he wants to help someone who has already done the work and just needs a boost.
Dame Valerie Adams reflected on her own global experiences in sport, from Olympic stadiums to local tracks. She said that while travel often meant missed celebrations and time away from home, it also created life-changing opportunities. “Sometimes, a single flight has the power to transform everything,” she said.
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