Air New Zealand have streamlined their baggage allowances so there’s one easy-to-remember allowance on all their long haul flights; Basically they will start charging for more than one checked in bag - this will affect quite a few RTW flight deals - so ask your consultants for details. Worth pointing out that  fuel surcharges haven't increased on Air NZ recently (although fuel has) and they are one of the few airlines that still allow surfboards. They are also a pretty darn comfortable airline to fly. Still they were one of the last airlines that still embraced the old "piece system" for flying via the Americas, and we think it's all a wee bit sad.

But in a nutshell

• If you’re travelling on Air New Zealand long haul to LA, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia or the South Pacific travelling in Economy, you’ll be able to take one checked bag up to 23 kg.

• This limit increases to two checked bags (up to 23kg each) if you’re travelling with Air NZ in Premium Economy.

• You can take three pieces (up to 23kg each) when you fly with Air NZ in Business Premier.

If customers are Gold Elite, Gold, or Koru members, they’ll be allowed to take one extra piece of checked baggage if they are travelling Economy (i.e maximum two pieces) or Premium Economy (i.e maximum 3 pieces). Gold Elite, Gold or Koru members travelling in Business Premier will already automatically be eligle for the maximum amount allowed of three pieces (up to 23 kg each).

• or any passengers connecting onto Air New Zealand via another carrier, please check the operating airline's baggage policy

Sporting equipment

When it comes to sporting equipment, all sports gear will be charged at 50% of the additional piece rate for all international flights.

New allowances begin 26 May 2010

For all bookings made and ticketed up till 26 May 2010, previous baggage allowances will be honoured, so flights you’ve already got booked will be covered under the baggage rules at the time of booking. Bookings made and/or ticketed after 26 May 2010 will carry the new baggage entitlements.

Excess Luggage Charges

To co-inside with you new Baggage Allowances Air NZ will be implementing new excess luggage charges as per the following grid for all customers departing the UK: