Welcome back to the Sunshine Coast, Air New Zealand. The Kiwi carrier has resumed its seasonal Auckland–Sunshine Coast route, touching down in the Queensland region this morning.
Running three times a week until 24 October, the service will offer more than 17,000 seats across the season.
The flight not only opens up winter sun and foodie events like The Curated Plate to Kiwi travellers but also makes exploring Aotearoa’s epic landscapes and culture easier for Sunshine Coast locals.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills says the airline’s return is a welcome boost for the region, reconnecting travellers and supporting two-way tourism during the cooler months.
“We’re excited to welcome back Air New Zealand for their 12th year of connecting the Sunshine Coast to Auckland,” Mills said.
“The Sunshine Coast and Noosa are fantastic holiday spots, brimming with natural beauty, exciting events, and unique experiences. The international connection to Auckland has been vital for regional tourism and the more than 90,000 Kiwis who visit the Coast every year.
“The return of Air New Zealand helps reconnect locals with loved ones thanks to the airline’s excellent domestic network across New Zealand. It is also easy to explore new travel destinations in North America and Asia via Auckland’s international connections.”
Air New Zealand General Manager Australia Kathryn O’Brien said the service “marks another exciting season of connecting Kiwis with one of Australia’s most loved holiday destinations”.
“Whether it’s the pristine beaches, vibrant local culture, or the winter festivals that draw them here, our customers love the ease and warmth of flying direct from Auckland,” she remarked.
“At the same time, this service provides Sunshine Coast locals with convenient access to all that New Zealand has to offer, from world-class food and wine to awe-inspiring landscapes.
“This route continues to be incredibly popular with both leisure travellers and those visiting friends and family. We’re proud to play a part in bringing our two regions closer together once again.”
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel lauded the “strong connection” between New Zealand and the Sunshine Coast.
“It’s our largest international market, and we really value that relationship,” Stoeckel said.
“These services make it easy for our Kiwi friends to enjoy everything the Sunshine Coast has to offer – and they can be soaking up the sunshine by lunchtime.”
This week, Air New Zealand announced a major trans-Tasman expansion for summer, releasing over 1.7 million seats in what amounts to one of its one of its biggest seasonal boosts to date.
