Air New Zealand is transforming one of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft into a special vaccination clinic to encourage Aucklanders to get vaccinated this Super Saturday.
Bound for 'destination vaccination', Aucklanders will be able to board the Jabaseat flight, receive their vaccination and get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of an aircraft hangar.
Those getting vaccinated onboard Flight NZVAX will tour Business Premier, enjoy free inflight snacks and receive a special boarding pass to commemorate the moment.
Air New Zealand Chief Operational Integrity and Safety Officer Captain David Morgan says the airline's Jabaseat vaccination clinic will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Aucklanders.
"Vaccinations are key to protecting our communities and opening New Zealand up again. We're getting ready to reunite families and fly Kiwis to their holiday destinations – but first New Zealand needs to get vaccinated. The more who can get involved with Super Saturday, the better.
"We know Aucklanders have been doing it tough recently and we hope the idea of boarding an international aircraft for the first time in a long while will lift some spirits – while also encouraging people to protect themselves.
Morgan says, as the nation's national carrier, Air NZ is a massive supporter of vaccinations.
The airline recently introduced a mandate for all essential Air New Zealand employees to be vaccinated and recently announced a no jab, no fly policy for travellers on all of its international flights.
People will board through the front door into Business Premier, where they will receive one dose of the Pfizer vaccine in their arm of choice. They will then move through the cabin into Economy where a snack service will commence. While they wait to disembark after the observation period, Kiwis will be able to enjoy the inflight entertainment.
Face masks will need to be worn throughout, and physical distancing will be practiced at all times.
The event is part of Super Saturday, a push to get as many Kiwis vaccinated in one day as possible. A televised 'Vaxathon' will be live on Three from midday until Newshub Live at 6.
