Community
7 April, 2025
Kiwi connection takes off
THE first ever direct flight to Cairns from New Zealand’s South Island has arrived, kicking off a highly anticipated year-round service that will open the door to a brand-new visitor market.
Jetstar’s inaugural flight from Christchurch, JQ136, landed at Cairns Airport at 10.40am on Wednesday. Passengers were greeted with gifts and the terminal was awash with tropical scenery to celebrate the milestone.
Operating three days per week, the new Jetstar route provides the first ever non-stop connection between the two destinations and will add 70,000 seats to the market each year, generating an estimated $20 million boost to the Cairns economy in the first 12 months.
“Jetstar’s direct flights from Christchurch to Cairns will slash hours and cost from the journey, giving passengers every reason to book the holiday they’ve been waiting for. This service is commencing at an ideal time, ahead of the lengthy Easter school holidays when families and friends are keen to reconnect,” said Cairns Airport chief executive Richard Barker.
“This route provides a seamless gateway between New Zealand’s picturesque South Island and the many attractions of Tropical North Queensland. Whether it’s Kiwis seeking a warm break or locals planning a winter getaway to hit the slopes, we expect this service will entice a new market of travellers across both destinations.”
Jetstar’s executive manager customer, Jenn Armor said the new route was part of Jetstar’s commitment to providing low-fare travel options to drive tourism across the Tasman.
“Our first flights on the Christchurch to Cairns route are a proud moment as we expand our network and continue to offer customers low-cost fares to a growing list of destinations,” she said.
“Kiwi travellers can fly direct to Cairns and in under six hours experience the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. This is great news for Jetstar and for Cairns, as we help welcome more visitors to the region.”
Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, said this was great news for Queensland.
“This is a great day for Tropical North Queensland tourism,” he said.
“We know they stand ready with open arms to welcome visitors from across the ditch to experience all the wonders of our great State.”
Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen welcomed the year-round New Zealand service from a new destination.
“Our Kiwi friends love to warm up in Tropical North Queensland and get a new perspective on adventurous activities like bungy jumping, mountain biking and hiking,” he said.
“Year-round flights also give us the opportunity to grow the many events in Tropical North Queensland’s shoulder seasons such as Crankworx Cairns and Port Douglas Gran Fondo.”
