The snow-capped mountains around Queenstown will be directly accessible from Brisbane next year thanks to Air New Zealand.
The Kiwi air carrier is to operate three direct flights a week from June 22 to October 23, using an Airbus A320neo aircraft.
Brisbane Airport chief executive officer Gert-Jan de Graaff says the seasonal service will bring in an extra 17,560 seats.
“The addition of this service will bolster connectivity with New Zealand, which remains our top international two-way market,” he says.
“We know Queenslanders love heading across the ditch to experience a Queenstown winter … just as important, the new route also gives New Zealanders an opportunity to escape the winter blues. We’re seeing more Kiwis than ever discovering the best of Brisbane.”
QUEENSTOWN AIRPORT’S DELIGHT
Queenstown Airport chief executive Shane O’Hare says they are “delighted” by the return of flights with Brisbane.
“There are strong ties between our communities; this service will be welcomed on both sides of the Tasman,” he says.
“The morning flight time will be great for those wanting to catch up with friends and family, and convenient for those with onward connections from Brisbane.”
Flights are due to depart Queenstown from 9:05am Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (local time) and depart Brisbane 11:55am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays.
Air New Zealand General Manager Australia Kathryn O’Brien said the new service is a welcome development for travellers.
“Queenstown has long been a favourite destination for Australian travellers,” she claims.
“This direct route from Brisbane makes it easier than ever for Queenslanders to experience the beauty of Queenstown, the wider Otago region and all of the South Island.”
Brisbane Airport is now connected to 35 international destinations.
It expects international travel this summer to rise 9% on last year’s figure with a record 25 million passengers expected to pass through it.
The airport is spending $5 billion over five years under its Future BNE transformation project.
