Air New Zealand has launched its new seasonal service between Queenstown and Brisbane, strengthening direct connections between the South Island and Australia’s east coast.
The first flight departed on June 22 and adds 16,500 seats to Air New Zealand’s trans-Tasman network. The service will operate three times a week through to October 23.
Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul and Domestic Lucy Hall says over winter the airline has increased capacity from Australia’s east coast to Queenstown by 40% and demand for the region is strong.
“The increase in capacity and addition of our Queenstown–Brisbane route reflects the airline’s commitment to growing where Kiwi travellers want to go and providing more opportunities for visitors to access the beautiful South Island directly.
“Our role is to keep New Zealand connected, competitive and open to the world. These additional seats will not only help New Zealanders access Brisbane and Queensland more easily but will also support tourism in the South.
“This new service is perfectly timed to align to the Queensland and New Zealand July school holiday period and we’re looking forward to welcoming families on board over this period.”
The airline is preparing to welcome more than 730,000 customers across its domestic and international network during these July school holidays.
Queenstown is a favourite with travellers over the holiday period, with the winter playground topping the list of domestic destinations.
Wellington is also set for a busy school holiday weekend as the All Blacks take on Italy on July 11 with more than 12,500 visitors expected to travel in and out of the capital over that weekend alone.
With airports expected to be bustling over the coming weeks, Air New Zealand is encouraging customers to plan ahead, especially those travelling with children or bulky winter gear.
