China Eastern Airlines will launch a new air route connecting China's economic hub, Shanghai, with Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, in December.

It will be the first direct route between Shanghai and South America, and the only air link between China and Argentina, according to the Shanghai-based carrier.

The new route, which will operate via Auckland, New Zealand, stems from an agreement signed between China Eastern Air Holding Co Ltd and Auckland Airport on Tuesday, according to China Eastern.

The new route connecting these dynamic economies will help build a more resilient and diversified aviation network, benefiting passengers, trade, and tourism, said New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the signing ceremony in Shanghai.

Luxon described the new route as an exciting opportunity that is expected to directly boost New Zealand's economic growth.

Wang Zhiqing, chairman of China Eastern Air Holding Co Ltd, said: "The new route will definitely become an important nexus between China and New Zealand, as well as the Asia-Pacific region and South America as a whole."

According to Wang, since the launch of flights to Auckland in 2014, China Eastern has seen good development momentum.

Carrie Hurihanganui, chief executive officer of Auckland Airport, said the new route is the result of years of joint effort. "Through continuous capacity expansion, China Eastern has become the airline operating the most flights between China and New Zealand," Hurihanganui added.

The Shanghai-Buenos Aires flight will be operated twice a week.

Compared with routes via Europe or North America, the new route will offer shorter flight times and a more convenient travel experience, according to China Eastern.