Jetstar to add 660k seats in major New Zealand expansion

Among the changes, Auckland–Christchurch will go from eight to 11 daily flights; Auckland–Brisbane from 10 per week to twice daily; Auckland–Sydney from eight to 12 per week; Christchurch–Melbourne to daily year-round; and Auckland–Dunedin from seven to 10 per week.

It is the second major expansion in as many years, with the airline last year launching several new routes, bolstering capacity on others, and basing an eighth A320 in Christchurch.

“We know how vital air travel is for connecting Kiwi families, friends, holidaymakers and business travellers. Our two new routes and increased domestic and trans-Tasman capacity will create more than 660,000 new low fares seats a year,” Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully said.

“These changes will give a much-needed boost to inbound tourism while offering Kiwis even more low-fares and choice in how they travel. With more seats on our trans-Tasman network than ever before, with one stop in Australia, Kiwis will have enhanced connectivity to Asia and beyond.

“We’re working closely with the New Zealand Government to manage rising costs in the market and thank them for their commitment to ensuring sustainable growth for air travel to and within New Zealand – providing more choice for customers.”

Welcoming the new Queenstown service and the Auckland expansion, Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said Queenslanders have “well and truly embraced Jetstar’s low fares and its rapidly expanding Brisbane hub”.

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“Jetstar has rocketed up the charts, faster than an Ed Sheeran hit, to become the second-largest carrier at Brisbane Airport for international passenger numbers,” he said.

“With services connecting Brisbane to nine international destinations, we look forward to continuing this strong and growing partnership with Jetstar.

“It’s a great outcome for travellers, tourism and connectivity, which is exactly what we’re all about.”

Auckland Airport has also hailed the expansion, with chief customer officer Scott Tasker calling it “a real vote of confidence in New Zealand’s travel market”.

“More seats mean more choice, better schedules for business and leisure flyers, and stronger connections across New Zealand, Australia and into Asia. Jetstar’s investment, including basing another aircraft here, strengthens Auckland Airport’s role as the hub for Jetstar’s growth,” Tasker said.

“Importantly, this announcement supports New Zealand’s tourism industry ambitions to grow back Australian visitation.

“With close to 180,000 extra seats on the trans-Tasman, we estimate this could bring 70,000 Australian visitors generating $190 million in additional visitor spend for the Auckland and the New Zealand economy.”

Australian travel makes up around 40 per cent of New Zealand’s international visitor capacity.