Know exactly how to request your dietary meal before you fly – no surprises, no last-minute problems.

Ordering Requirements

REQUIREMENT DETAILS DEADLINE
Booking Deadline 48 hours before departure Strict – no exceptions
Trans-Tasman Flights Only available with meal-included fares Check fare type first
International Flights Seat or Seat+Bag fare required minimum Upgrade fare if needed
Required Information Booking number + last name Have confirmation ready

Pre Order

  1. 1

    Access Your Booking

    Go to the Air New Zealand website (airnewzealand.co.nz)

    Click “Manage Booking” in the main navigation

    Enter your Booking Number (confirmation code) and last name exactly as shown on confirmation

    Click “Continue” to access your booking

    The Air New Zealand website displays flight prices from Los Angeles to Auckland and Sydney, complete with options for various classes. Amidst a scenic backdrop, it also guides you on how to order a special meal, ensuring a tailored travel experience.
    Air New Zealand booking management page prompting for a booking reference and family name input, with options to change or cancel flights and add baggage.
  2. 2

    Navigate to Meal Options

    Review your booking details on the main screen

    Look for the “Meals” button or “Special Meals” section

    Click on it to start the meal selection process

    Note: If you don’t see a Meals button, your fare may not include meal service

    Screenshot of a flight booking interface showing a flight from Auckland to Melbourne with details on flight time, cabin class, fare types, and options to select seats, add a bag, and meals.
  3. 3

    Select Flight Segments

    You’ll see each flight segment listed separately

    Tap the down arrow next to each flight to expand meal options

    Special meal availability varies by route – not all meals available on all flights

    Check each segment if you have connecting flights

    Air New Zealand webpage showing special meal options for Auckland to Melbourne flights, with a focus on vegetarian meals. Options include contacting other airlines for connecting flights.
  4. 4

    Choose and Confirm Your Meal

    Select the appropriate special meal code for your dietary requirements

    Review the meal description to ensure it meets your needs

    Confirm your selection for each applicable flight segment

    Save changes and note confirmation details

    Air New Zealand page detailing special meal options for the Auckland to Melbourne flight, with save and cancel buttons at the bottom.

Fare Type Requirements

ROUTE TYPE MINIMUM FARE REQUIRED SPECIAL MEAL AVAILABLE
Trans-Tasman The Works / Works Flexi Yes
Trans-Tasman Seat Only No – snack service only
International Long-Haul Seat or Seat+Bag minimum Yes
International Long-Haul All higher fare types Yes

Alternative Ordering Methods

If Online Booking Doesn’t Work

Phone: Contact Air New Zealand customer service directly

Travel Agent: If booked through an agent, they can add special meals

Mobile App Method

Download the Air New Zealand mobile app

Use the “Manage Booking” feature

Follow the same process as the website

Troubleshooting Common Problems

“Meals” Button Not Visible

Check your fare type – Seat Only fares on Trans-Tasman don’t include meals

Verify you’re within the 48-hour deadline

Try logging out and back in

Contact customer service if the booking qualifies

Special Meal Not Available

Some meals are not offered on all routes (especially Kosher, Jain meals)

Try alternative meal codes that meet your dietary needs

Contact customer service for route-specific availability

Booking Number Not Working

Double-check spelling of last name matches the booking exactly

Ensure the booking number includes all letters/numbers

Try a different combination if multiple passengers are on the booking

Bottom Line

Order your Air New Zealand special meal through “Manage Booking” on their website at least 48 hours before departure.

Trans-Tasman flights require a The Works fare minimum, while international flights require a Seat or Seat+Bag fare minimum.

If you can’t see meal options online, your fare likely doesn’t include meal service.

Have your booking number and last name ready, and always confirm your selection shows properly before finalising.

About Air New Zealand

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