China Travel Service (NZ) Limited launched its new South America tour packages on Friday in Auckland, New Zealand, leveraging China Eastern Airlines' newly established long-haul route from Shanghai to Buenos Aires via Auckland.

Representatives from local media, the Chinese Consulate General in Auckland, the China Cultural Center in Auckland, and members of the banking and business communities attended the launch ceremony.

Turning the long-envisioned "Southern Link" concept into reality, the direct Shanghai-Auckland-Buenos Aires route operated by China Eastern Airlines not only connects three major cities but also significantly strengthens intercontinental mobility between China, New Zealand and South America.

Lisa Li, managing director at China Travel Service (NZ) Limited, said that the route is a milestone for trans-Pacific aviation, reducing travel time and offering travellers a seamless passage across the Southern Hemisphere.

Industry representatives at the event noted that the route and the travel packages will help broaden tourism exchanges between China, New Zealand, and South America.