Air New Zealand permits lithium-ion batteries used with wheelchairs and mobility aids, including power-assist devices, subject to its battery requirements. A removable lithium battery must not exceed 300Wh; if the mobility aid requires two batteries, each must not exceed 160Wh. Air New Zealand may also require battery and mobility-device details before travel.
Air New Zealand requirements can change, so always confirm the latest wheelchair and battery rules directly with Air New Zealand before you travel.
WHAT AIR NEW ZEALAND NEEDS FROM YOU
- Mobility aid make and model
- Weight and dimensions
- Battery type
- Battery watt-hour rating
- Whether the battery is removable
- Clear instructions showing how the mobility aid can be fully deactivated
- Any relevant battery or manufacturer documentation
LITHIUM BATTERY RULES
- One lithium battery: maximum 300Wh
- If the mobility aid requires two batteries: maximum 160Wh each
- A removable lithium battery must be removed before check-in and carried in the cabin
- A non-removable battery may remain fitted if it is securely attached and protected against short circuit
- You must be able to explain how the mobility aid can be fully deactivated
- Spare batteries: one up to 300Wh, or two up to 160Wh each
- Removed and spare lithium batteries must travel in the cabin
- The watt-hour rating must be clearly identifiable on the battery
Air New Zealand requirements can change, so confirm the current battery rules directly with the airline before travel.
HOW TO NOTIFY AIR NEW ZEALAND
Tell Air New Zealand when you book that you are travelling with a battery-powered wheelchair or mobility aid. Provide the mobility aid’s dimensions, weight and battery details, including the battery type, watt-hour rating and whether the battery is removable. If you have an existing booking and still need to add assistance or mobility information, use Air New Zealand’s special assistance request process or contact the airline before travel.
AT THE AIRPORT, SAY:
“I’m travelling with a battery-powered mobility aid. The details were provided to Air New Zealand when I booked, and I have the battery specifications and handling information with me.”
The Travelling Para Tip:
Carry your battery specifications and clear wheelchair handling instructions so staff can verify the details quickly at check-in.
LAST REVIEWED
21 August 2026
Airline requirements can change. Confirm current wheelchair, mobility-aid and battery requirements directly with Air New Zealand before travel.
OFFICIAL SOURCES
- Air New Zealand — Flying with wheelchairs
- Air New Zealand — Dangerous goods
- Air New Zealand — Restricted items / batteries
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