Air New Zealand customers have redeemed about $1.4m in credit following the launch of a new online tool.

The online tool, which launched on Monday, allows customers who hold credit directly with the airline to manage their credit online.

Air New Zealand chief commercial and customer Officer Cam Wallace says about 38,000 customers have used the tool to look up their credit balance to date.

'It's been promising to see such a great response after just 24 hours of the tool being live.”

The airline has extended the period for using credits – customers now have until December 31, 2021 to book using their credit and 12 months after booking to travel.

'We know it's been tough for customers trying to get through to our contact centre but with this tool now being live, it gives customers a choice as to whether they would like to self-service or speak to an Air New Zealand employee,” says Cam.

'We're thrilled to see so many customers being able to use their credit and book flights online. So far, popular destinations have been Queenstown, Auckland and Christchurch.”

The airline says it will be working to evolve its credit tool in coming weeks.