General News
1 July, 2024
$50m Kiwi cash splash
A NEW direct service between Cairns and Christchurch in New Zealand starts in April next year and has a potential annual $50m economic boost to the region.
Jetstar will operate the three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays after initially two-a-week in the first week of April.
Jetstar will run an Airbus A320 jet on the route with 180 seats, equating to 28,000 incoming passengers a year.
Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said “connecting travellers directly from Christchurch to Cairns will entice a new market of travellers across both destinations, creating a seamless gateway between New Zealand’s picturesque South Island and the many wonders of Tropical North Queensland.”
“Commencement of these flights in April next year will also connect more families and friends ahead of the Easter holidays and offer ideal winter getaway options for locals chasing the snow or Kiwis seeking a warmer climate,” he said.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said it made the Far North more accessible for New Zealanders.
He said the flights would draw adventurous South Islanders seeking mountain bike, white water rafting, bungy jumping, tubing and other such experiences as well as warmer leisurely beach pursuits at Palm Cove and Port Douglas.
Mr Olsen said the region currently attracted 32,000 New Zealanders each year and they spent about $58 million.
Queensland Tourism Minister and State Member for Cairns Michael Healy said Jetstar had committed to a three-year deal for the services.
“The flights will go some way to alleviating the pain of losing Bonza Airlines from the local market,” he said. Jetstar Group chief executive Stephanie Tully said “having another aircraft based in Christchurch, as well as the launch of new flights and capacity, will help establish the city as a major gateway for Jetstar in New Zealand, providing more choice and great low fares for South Island residents”.
Christchurch Airport chief executive officer Justin Watson said “more seats across the Tasman offers better choice and a direct connection with Cairns opens up a seamless two-way link to the fantastic opportunities in the South Island and in Tropical North Queensland”.
