Victorians and New Zealanders have a new way to cross the divide: China Airlines begins flights between Melbourne and Auckland for the first time on Tuesday. But this is no ordinary service.

Travelers also have the option of flying in reclining seats between Australia and New Zealand – a rarity on trans-Tasman routes – with China Airlines using its A350 aircraft on the route.

In addition to its business class product, the Taiwanese airline will also offer premium economy and full-service economy services.

The new flights are an extension of China Airlines’ Taipei-Melbourne service and launch at the start of the busy holiday season. Over 3,000 seats will be added to the route.

Flight CI057 operates daily except Mondays and Saturdays. It leaves Melbourne at 1.40pm and arrives in Auckland at 7.05pm. Flight CI058 departs Auckland at 9:05 p.m., arrives in Tullamarine at 10:55 p.m. and departs for Taipei at 12:25 a.m.

Melbourne Airport aviation chief Jim Parashos said the new service would help ease pressure on trans-Tasman airfares, calling it a win-win for Australians and Kiwis.

“China Airlines’ decision to extend the Taipei-Melbourne route to Auckland provides travelers with a high-quality and competitive option to cross the Tasman,” he said.

“With the December school holidays almost upon us, families and holidaymakers will benefit from increased capacity at a time when demand is at its peak.”

Parashos also highlighted the “new opportunities for New Zealanders to connect to Asia via Melbourne, opening a gateway to Taipei and beyond”.

“The additional flights bring much-needed competition to the trans-Tasman market, helping to reduce airfares and provide passengers with greater choice,” he noted.

“It’s a win for consumers on both sides of the Tasman.”

Taipei-based China Airlines announced it would begin flights between Melbourne and Auckland in June this year.