New air services a boost for tourism

New air services a boost for tourism

New regional air services announced today by Jetstar will boost both domestic and international tourism, the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand says.

TIA has welcomed today’s announcement that Jetstar is introducing services to at least four regional New Zealand destinations.

Tourism 2025 identified that air connectivity is crucial to increasing the tourism industry’s contribution to New Zealand’s economy.

The vast majority of our international visitors arrive by air and good regional air services encourage them to get off the beaten track and see more of New Zealand during their trip.

“These new services will provide a strong regional distribution option for international visitors flying Qantas as well as Emirates, China Eastern, China Southern, American Airlines and their other partners,” TIA Chief Executive Chris Roberts says.

Affordable regional air services also help to grow domestic tourism, Mr Roberts says.

“We know from experience that competitive regional airfares and regular services encourage New Zealanders to travel around the country, to visit family and friends, attend events or for short breaks,” Mr Roberts says.

“New Zealanders travelling within their own country contribute $36.8 million in economic activity every day of the year. Offering them more good value options for flights will definitely boost that spending.”

This has the added benefit of seeing more people travelling during the off-peak season, further boosting the productivity of the tourism industry.

The flow-on effects of the increased Jetstar services will benefit TIA members around the country, including attraction, activity, accommodation and transport providers.

“I’d like to thank Jetstar and the Qantas Group for showing a serious and long term commitment to New Zealand and our tourism industry,” Mr Roberts says.

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