Air New Zealand announced it is adding Hobart as its tenth Australian destination. The airline will be launching a non-stop service between Hobart and Auckland once quarantine-free travel is up and running.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran says he expects this new route to be a great attraction for both Tasmanians and Kiwis.
“This route will be a much-needed economic boost for the tourism industry. Pre-COVID-19, Tasmania was the largest Australian port unserved by a direct route from New Zealand, and in 2019 nearly 57,000 passengers travelled from New Zealand to Tasmania, so we expect this new route to stimulate even greater demand between the two destinations.
“We’ll be providing flights on Thursdays and Sundays to make the most of domestic connectivity and provide the best long weekend options for travellers.”
The route will also open opportunities for Tasmanians to visit the Land of the Long White Cloud.
“We know Tasmanians love to visit New Zealand and this non-stop service to Auckland will make it that much easier to get out into our great outdoors and access our winter playgrounds.
“Australian visitors will be able to connect to the other 19 ports we fly to in New Zealand. So with a flight time of just four hours to Auckland, customers are only a short skip away from the ski fields of the South Island, the vineyards of the central plateau, and the culture and history of Northland.”
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein says the announcement today of the new non-stop flights to Hobart from New Zealand is a significant opportunity for both destinations.
“I am very pleased that this service will enable us to welcome more New Zealanders to our State and encourage them to consider booking their next holiday in Tassie and see what we have to offer.”
The airline will be flying year-round between Auckland and Hobart twice weekly using its A320neo fleet. Tickets will go on sale once quarantine-free travel across the Tasman is available.
Customers can explore more exciting things to do in New Zealand at airnewzealand.com.au.
In 1983, I travelled on the short-lived Air NZ Hobart – Christchurch service.
It was school holidays, and TAA had added one too.
Christchurch airport was closed at last minute by fog. Our B737 could divert to Wellington. TAA’s B727 had to divert to Auckland.
Kia ora. Kapai!! Aotearoa