31st August 2015

Hawke's Bay welcomes Jetstar

News Jetstar will be adding Hawke’s Bay to its flight path has been welcomed by the region.

David Hall, CEO of Jetstar New Zealand and Australia announced this morning that Hawke’s Bay will be one of Jetstar’s four new regional destinations.

Jetstar will commence flying from Napier-Auckland from the beginning of December, offering 27 flights per week. To celebrate the new routes Jetstar is offering special $9 one-way regional launch fares from 9.30am-1.30pm today for travel 1-15 December 2015, 2 February-21 March 2016 and 4 May-29 Jun 2016. Regular one way lead in fares will be $49.

Over the last few months a team representing Hawke’s Bay councils, businesses and tourism have worked collaboratively on a business proposal to entice Jetstar to add Hawke’s Bay to their domestic network. This group included Hawke’s Bay Airport, Hawke’s Bay Tourism, Business Hawke’s Bay, Napier City Council and Hastings District Council.

“This is huge news for Hawke’s Bay, it’s a complete game changer for tourism growth opportunities” said Hawke’s Bay Tourism General Manager Annie Dundas. “Competitive airfares are good for domestic tourism but this will also open up international connections to Australia too.”

The Mayors of Napier and Hastings said the result was the ultimate reward for the regional team behind the pitch. “This is simply wonderful to hear Jetstar will be flying here,” said Napier Mayor Bill Dalton. “The team worked hard and showed Jetstar we are a region on the up with plenty of untapped potential.”

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule said."This is been a long awaited prize. The only way to substantially reduce the price of airfares for the people of Hawke's Bay is by competition. It is very exciting that we have landed a large player”.

Business Hawke’s Bay CEO Susan White: “Business Hawke’s Bay is thrilled with Jetstar’s decision. We welcome having two sustainable carriers servicing the region. We are convinced this will contribute to the growth of our regional economy and we look forward to the expansion of routes over time.”

With expansion plans already underway, Hawke’s Bay Airport Chief Executive Nick Story said the timing couldn’t be better. “We are delighted to be welcoming Jetstar, a significant new customer, to the Airport. It’s a very exciting day for the Airport Company and a great day for the Hawke’s Bay Region.”

Other regions announced this morning are: Nelson, Palmerston North and New Plymouth.

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