Earning Qantas Points is a goal for many travellers in New Zealand, seeking to maximise their benefits and enjoy the perks of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program.
These points can unlock a range of rewards, from flight upgrades to purchases in the Qantas Store.
Frequent Flyers have various avenues to accrue points, including flying with Qantas or its partners, engaging with retail partners, or using credit cards associated with the program.
In New Zealand, members of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program can earn points through everyday activities, not just when travelling.
Shopping with program partners, refuelling cars, or managing finances with affiliated banks and financial service providers offer continuous opportunities to grow your points balance.
Understanding the most effective ways to collect these points can significantly enhance a member’s experience with the program.
It pays to stay informed about the participating partners and the earning potential associated with them, ensuring that every dollar spent works harder towards the next reward.
Understanding Qantas Points
Earning Qantas Points in New Zealand allows members of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to redeem flights, upgrade their experience, and enjoy various benefits.
The program is structured to reward regular travellers with points that lead to tangible perks.
Qantas Frequent Flyer Program Overview
The Qantas Frequent Flyer program is designed for loyal customers to earn points when travelling with Qantas, Oneworld Alliance airlines, or through numerous partners.
Members earn points by flying, and across a network of non-flight activities such as shopping and dining, providing a versatile rewards system.
Membership Terms and Conditions
Membership in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program is contingent upon accepting and complying with the terms and conditions.
These set the framework for how members earn and redeem points, and they must be understood to maximise benefits.
Key elements include point expiry policies, transfer rules, and conditions for point earning on partner airlines, such as the ability to earn Qantas Points when flying domestically within New Zealand on flights operated by Air New Zealand with a Qantas (QF) flight number.
Point Earning Structure
Qantas Points are accrued based on the point earning structure, which varies by activity.
For flights, the number of points earned is governed by the flight distance, the fare class, and the member’s current tier.
Points may also be earned on everyday purchases through Qantas’s financial and retail partners, making it one of the quickest ways to grow a points balance.
- Flights: Earned per mile flown, fare class, and membership tier.
- Credit Cards: Points per dollar spent vary by partner institution.
- Retail Partners: Points earned per transaction amount; specific promotions may apply.
Status Credits and Benefits
Alongside earning points, members accumulate status credits, determining their program membership tier.
Higher tiers offer additional benefits like lounge access, bonus points earning, and priority boarding.
Each flight segment not only earns points but also contributes status credits based on the fare type and distance.
These status credits lead to the recognition of loyalty and unlock a range of exclusive benefits.
- Bronze: Entry level, basic benefits.
- Silver: More benefits, including priority check-in.
- Gold: Access to lounges and additional baggage allowances.
- Platinum: Highest tier with first-class lounge access and highest priority services.
Earning Qantas Points Through Flights
Qantas offers numerous ways for passengers to earn points that can lead to rewarding travel experiences.
Booking Qantas and Partner Airline Flights
Travellers can earn Qantas Points when booking flights on Qantas or its partner airlines.
The number of points earned correlates with the distance flown and the fare class purchased.
For instance, flying with Qantas, Jetstar, or one of its partner airlines, such as Emirates, can result in a boost to passengers’ points tally.
Eligible Flights Include:
- Qantas (QF) flights
- Jetstar (JQ), Jetstar Asia (3K), Jetstar Japan (GK) flights
- Flights with a partner airline using a QF flight number
Points earned from these flights count towards Frequent Flyer points and Status Credits, enhancing the value of each trip taken.
Maximising Points on International Flights
For international flights, passengers can maximise their Qantas Points by selecting higher fare classes such as Premium Economy, Business, or First Class.
Additionally, choosing flights operated by Qantas or Oneworld partner airline can often yield more points than flying with other partners.
Fare Classes and Point Accumulation:
| Fare Class | Points Earned |
|---|---|
| Economy | Standard |
| Premium Economy | Increased |
| Business | High |
| First Class | Highest |
It’s beneficial for travellers to check the respective earning tables on the Qantas website to see how different fare classes and flights contribute to earning points.
Understanding Carrier Charges and Taxes
The ticket cost includes carrier charges and taxes, which can vary based on the route and international destinations.
While these fees do not earn Qantas Points, understanding these charges is crucial for travellers to more accurately calculate the overall points they will gain from their flights.
Types of Charges:
- Carrier charges: Additional fees airlines charge on top of the base fare and taxes.
- Taxes: Government-imposed fees that can fluctuate based on departure and arrival countries.
Passengers should know that while taxes are a mandatory part of international travel, carrier charges can sometimes be mitigated by selecting different flight paths or booking with airlines with lower fees.
Optimising Accommodation Bookings
For travellers in New Zealand looking to boost their Qantas Points balance, selecting the right accommodation can make all the difference.
Focusing on partnered options allows one to earn points on every dollar spent, turning each night’s stay into a future travel opportunity.
Staying at Qantas Hotels
When one books their stay directly through Qantas Hotels, they can earn a generous return of 3 Qantas Points per A$1 spent.
This is an efficient way to accumulate points quickly while enjoying a broad selection of accommodations.
Booking with Hotel Partners
The frequent flyer programme has a range of hotel partners where members can earn Qantas Points.
Each partner has specific conditions and earning rates, so guests should review these carefully to get the most out of their bookings.
Earning Points with Airbnb Bookings
Travellers can also earn Qantas Points on Airbnb bookings.
By booking through the Qantas portal, they can earn 1 point for every A$1 spent, and for first-time Airbnb users, there is often an additional bonus of Qantas Points to take advantage of.
Note: The points earn rate is calculated on the equivalent spend in Australian dollars, even if you pay in New Zealand dollars.
Travelling in New Zealand
Flying with Jetstar and Air New Zealand
By opting to fly within New Zealand on Jetstar or Air New Zealand, passengers can earn Qantas Points if they book flights with a Qantas (QF) flight number.
It’s a lucrative way to ensure that every leg of the journey contributes to their frequent flyer balance.
Points and Status Credits can be accrued on eligible flights, providing a tangible benefit to selecting these airlines.
Booking Holiday Packages
Choosing a holiday package that includes flights, hotels, or experiences can also aid in boosting Qantas Points.
Travellers should look for packages that feature Qantas or their partner airlines to make the most of their holiday spending.
Exploring Rental Car Options
For those looking to traverse New Zealand by road, selecting rental car services affiliated with Qantas can accumulate points.
The partnership between Qantas and various car rental companies offers a straightforward approach to earn points on the ground.
More information on how to earn points with car rentals can be found on their dedicated Frequent Flyer Use Qantas Points page.
Everyday Earning Opportunities
Qantas Frequent Flyers in New Zealand have multiple pathways to accumulate points through daily activities.
Shopping, dining, and utilising Qantas-specific services can all contribute to a healthier points balance.
Shopping Through Qantas Marketplace
The Qantas Marketplace is a one-stop shop where members can earn points simply by purchasing everyday items.
This online portal features various products from over 250 brands across multiple categories.
Members can earn up to 7 points per NZ dollar spent, making it a lucrative option for those looking to maximise their rewards.
Dining and Retail Partners
Frequent flyers can boost their points balance while dining out or shopping at partnered retailers.
Members should look out for special offers that can significantly increase point earnings.
Using Qantas Shopping and Qantas Wine
Qantas Shopping offers exclusive access to top-tier retailers, both online and in-store, where members can earn points for each transaction.
Additionally, Qantas Wine allows members to earn points for every dollar spent on hand-selected wines by Qantas.
With both platforms, members enjoy earning rewards while purchasing quality goods, from fashion to technology and fine wines.
Regular interaction with these platforms can seamlessly integrate into a member’s lifestyle, turning everyday purchases into future travel opportunities.
Credit Cards and Financial Services
The strategic use of credit cards and financial services is a savvy way for New Zealanders to accelerate their Qantas Points balance.
Through partnerships with banks and financial institutions, individuals can earn points on everyday spending or when planning for travel.
Choosing the Right Qantas Points-Earning Credit Card
When selecting a credit card that earns Qantas Points, one must compare the options based on earn rates, bonus points offerings, and annual fees.
Cards from partners like American Express may provide higher earning rates, which can help grow point balances faster.
It’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the costs to decide which card aligns best with one’s financial behaviour and goals.
- Earn Rates: Cards may offer different points per dollar spent.
- Bonus Points: Look for sign-up bonuses which can significantly boost your points.
- Annual Fees: Cards come with varying fees. Higher fees are often associated with greater rewards.
Understanding Membership Rewards Transfer
Cardholders of an American Express card with Membership Rewards points can transfer these points to their Qantas Frequent Flyer account.
Understanding the transfer rates and any applicable minimum transfer amounts is important.
Regularly converting Membership Rewards points to Qantas Points can help in maintaining an active balance and getting closer to potential rewards.
- Transfer Rates: Know how many Membership Rewards points equate to Qantas Points.
- Minimum Transfer: Know the minimum points you can transfer at a time.
Exploring Travel Insurance Options
Including travel insurance in one’s financial planning can lead to earning Qantas Points while also providing essential coverage for unexpected travel disruptions.
Certain credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance, which is another aspect to consider when choosing a card.
It’s imperative to check the coverage details to ensure they meet one’s needs.
- Complimentary Insurance: Some credit cards include travel insurance.
- Points Earning: Earn points for the insurance purchase on eligible cards.
Bonuses and Special Offers
Qantas offers a variety of bonuses and special offers that allow members to accelerate their points-earning potential.
From promotional deals on flight bookings to unique offerings via their mobile app, these strategies are vital for maximising point accrual.
Taking Advantage of Points Bonuses
Qantas frequently provides opportunities to earn bonus points through targeted promotions.
In the past, members could earn double Status Credits and 5,000 bonus Qantas Points by registering and booking within a specified timeframe.
Members need to stay updated with Qantas communications and act swiftly when these limited-time offers arise.
Finding Premium and Business Class Deals
Travellers seeking luxury at a fraction of the cost should watch for deals on premium economy, business, and even first-class Qantas tickets.
These fare classes provide a more comfortable flying experience and garner more Qantas Points and Status Credits compared to economy class.
Special offers may include discounts on Points Plus Pay – Flights, where members can use a combination of cash and points to unlock seating in these elevated classes.
Utilising the Qantas Wellbeing App
The Qantas Wellbeing App is another innovative avenue for earning points.
Designed to encourage a healthier lifestyle, the app rewards users with points for completing various physical activities like walking or cycling.
These points can accumulate daily, helping members to steadily grow their balance simply by maintaining an active routine.
Family and Community Benefits
The Qantas Frequent Flyer programme extends its advantages to include family members, allowing for point earning and transfers between accounts.
Family Member Earning and Transfers
Family members can earn Qantas Points through their own travel or through various partnerships the programme offers.
They have the opportunity to increase their points balance which can be consolidated into one family account for greater flexibility.
It’s pertinent to know that eligible family members may also transfer Qantas Points to one another, providing an efficient way to pool points within the family structure.
What about Everyday Rewards?
Most Kiwis who have travelled to or lived in Australia are familiar with Australia’s Everyday Rewards program which is linked to Qantas frequent flyer.
Unfortunately, New Zealand’s Everyday Rewards program does not currently partner with Qantas, so you can’t earn Qantas frequent flyer points at Countdown/Woolworths in New Zealand.
We will update this article if this changes.
Redeeming Points Effectively
Redeeming Qantas Points can be strategic, allowing members to maximise value, particularly through careful planning and understanding of the program’s intricacies.
Booking Classic Flight Rewards
Classic Flight Rewards offer passengers the ability to book flights using a fixed number of points, irrespective of the cash price of a ticket.
Availability can be limited, so they should keep an eye on the booking calendar and be flexible with travel dates.
For the best value, booking a Classic Flight Reward is often most effective when planned well in advance.
Understanding Points Plus Pay
Points Plus Pay is a flexible option that lets members use a combination of points and cash to book flights.
It’s essential to understand that while this offers more availability compared to Classic Flight Rewards, it often results in less value per point.
When using Points Plus Pay, confirming that the mix of points and cash suits one’s priorities and provides a satisfactory deal is advisable.
Upgrading to Premium Cabins
Using points to upgrade to premium cabins is a popular option for many members. Upgrades are subject to availability and may be confirmed immediately or may require the member to join an upgrade waitlist.
Priority is typically given to higher tier Frequent Flyers. Members planning an upgrade should check the upgrade availability as early as possible to increase their chances of travelling in comfort.
Navigating Qantas Services
Navigating the array of services provided by Qantas in New Zealand can be straightforward when one knows where to look and what tools are available.
Managing accounts, getting in touch with customer support, and navigating the airline’s website are key to maximising the benefits of their frequent flyer programme.
Managing My Account and Bookings
Customers can manage their Qantas Frequent Flyer account and bookings with ease through the dedicated My Account section on qantas.com.
Here, they can monitor their points balance, update personal details, and access past and upcoming flight information.
Online check-in and booking management, such as seat selection and special requests, are also facilitated here.
Contacting Customer Service
When travellers need assistance, the Qantas customer service team is accessible through various channels.
For personalised help, they can reach out via phone or the support page which details the different ways to earn points as well as provides a range of help articles related to Qantas’ services.
The customer service team is trained to resolve issues efficiently, whether they pertain to flight bookings, frequent flyer points, or general enquiries.
Visiting Qantas.com
Qantas.com serves as the portal for all travel needs, from booking flights to exploring ways to earn and use Qantas Points.
The website is designed to provide travellers with a seamless experience, whether they’re planning their next trip, looking for exclusive deals, or trying to make the most out of the Qantas partnership with Air New Zealand.
Customers will find the layout intuitive and information regarding the frequent flyer programme readily available.
Entering and Thriving in the Points Game
To make the most of the Qantas Points system, you must understand the essentials of membership, know how to boost your points balance wisely, and stay informed about the latest program dynamics.
Joining the Qantas Frequent Flyer Program
When individuals in New Zealand opt to join the Qantas Frequent Flyer Program, it’s crucial to be aware of the joining fee.
At times, Qantas offers promotions that waive this fee. Once a member, they accrue points through flights, partner businesses, and credit card spending.
Membership provides access to a world of rewards, including flight upgrades, hotel stays, and shopping perks.
Learning the Art of Points Top-Up
Maximising a Qantas Points balance may sometimes require a top-up. Purchasing additional points can be advantageous when a member is close to a reward threshold.
It’s a straightforward process: members log into their account and buy the required points for a specific fee.
However, they should consider the cost against the benefit received from redemptions.
Evaluating Program Changes and Updates
Members must stay attuned to program changes and updates.
Qantas occasionally revises its terms, which can affect point earning rates, redemption values, and partnership agreements.
These updates are communicated via email and should be read thoroughly to ensure that members remain well-informed and can adapt their strategy to continue reaping maximum rewards.
International Partnerships
For travellers in New Zealand wanting to earn Qantas Points, partnerships with airlines such as British Airways, Emirates, and Fiji Airways present valuable opportunities.
These partnerships allow members to earn points on flights across a network of destinations.
Earning with British Airways
By flying with British Airways, Qantas Frequent Flyer members can earn points on eligible flights.
The number of points earned depends on the distance flown and the fare class purchased.
It is essential to include a Qantas Frequent Flyer number in the booking to accrue points.
Travelling with Emirates and Fiji Airways
Both Emirates and Fiji Airways are key partners with the Qantas Frequent Flyer program.
This alliance enables passengers to earn points when flying to various destinations serviced by these carriers.
Ensure bookings are on flights with a Qantas (QF) flight number to earn points with these airlines.
Related: 25+ Ways to Earn Airpoints Dollars in 2024
