An Air New Zealand flight from Auckland to Dunedin had a terrifying mid-air experience after being struck by lightning on October 8, 2025. The Airbus A320, operating as Flight NZ676, was forced to divert to Christchurch soon after takeoff.
Thunderstorm Turns Dangerous
The aircraft departed Auckland at 6:55 a.m. amid intense thunderstorms sweeping across the North Island. Meteorologists recorded nearly 500 lightning strikes in three hours, warning travellers of unstable weather across Auckland and Northland.
Terrifying Moment in the Sky
Passengers described hearing a loud explosion followed by a flash of orange fire near the left wing. Some experienced ringing in their ears and severe headaches from the shock. Panic spread briefly before the crew calmed passengers and took control.
Quick Crew Response Ensures Safety
The flight crew acted swiftly, following standard lightning-strike procedures. Air traffic control instructed the pilot to divert to Christchurch, where the plane landed safely. No injuries were reported, but the scare left several passengers visibly shaken.
Aircraft Grounded for Checks
Air New Zealand cancelled the aircraft’s return flight to Auckland to allow engineers to perform a full inspection. The airline later arranged alternate flights for passengers to reach Dunedin, including an extra service from Christchurch.
Lightning Strikes Common but Controlled
The airline reassured passengers that lightning strikes, though dramatic, are not unusual in aviation. Modern aircraft are designed to withstand them safely. This incident once again highlights how skilled crews and strong safety systems protect travellers during extreme weather events.
