The introduction of a direct Air New Zealand route between Auckland and the Philippines is being welcomed by the Filipino community.

Editor of Filipino Migrant News Mel Fernandez said the community here is tight-knit, and people like to fly home for family events and festivals.

He said previously the journey's taken up to 18 or 19 hours, was very expensive, and the only direct route until now has been on Philippines Airlines.

"Previously they had to fly via various points in Asia like Singapore or Hong Kong and even Australia. This is going to make a huge difference".

Fernandez said it will make the Philippines far more accessible for New Zealand's Filipino community.

"Around 13,000 Filipinos fly home annually and these numbers should increase dramatically if there is a direct flight, and the price of the airline tickets come down".

He said the direct flight path can shave hours off the travel-time, and will encourage more travel between New Zealand and the Philippines, in both directions.

The ten and a half hour Air New Zealand flight will operate three times a week.

The service will begin this December.