The win came after a competitive pitch, with Draftfcb scheduled to formally commence work from March this year.
The brand has been recognised for some innovative campaigns in recent years, including its work featuring "Rico", a lewd and crude puppet who often interacted with celebrities in TVCs and web videos.
The incumbent lead agency was also a local grouping, the BBDO-owned .99 agency.
Bryan Crawford, chairman and Group CEO of Draftfcb in Australia and New Zealand said, “We are thrilled about our new partnership with the team at Air New Zealand, and look forward to working closely with the airline in the future.