Air New Zealand is working with wine producer Villa Maria to create its own wine label for the airline’s customers on-board and in its lounges.

The airline says that the label, Thirteen Forty Five, will pay tribute to the airline's inaugural flight from Auckland to Sydney in 1940, which spanned 1,345 miles. Operated by Air New Zealand's predecessor, TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited), it says that flight marked the beginning of a new era of air travel that would connect New Zealand to the world.

Thirteen Forty Five will launch with a signature Sauvignon Blanc and a Pinot Noir, available exclusively to Air New Zealand customers.

Air New Zealand has worked with winemakers in Marlborough to create the bespoke blends and Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience, Kylie McGillivray-Brown, says each wine has been crafted with special attention to how flavours are experienced at altitude.

“This wasn't about simply putting our label on a bottle – we’ve collaborated with Indevin's world-class winemakers to craft these unique blends, creating an exclusive experience for our customers, whether they’re savouring it at 30,000 feet alongside our thoughtfully-curated menu, or in our lounges.”

Thirteen Forty Five will be available from March 2025 in Premium Economy, Air New Zealand lounges, and exclusively on the Airpoints Store. For a limited time, customers will also be able to enjoy it during Koru Hour on select domestic flights.

Air New Zealand also showcases an extensive selection of New Zealand wines in its Business Premier cabin. Each year, local wineries are invited to submit their wines for consideration by the airline's Wine Ambassadors.