Jetstar has announced a new service between Queenstown and the Gold Coast flying three times a week.
The airline also launched its first international service from Wellington, announcing today it will fly between Wellington and the Gold Coast three times a week.
The service would open up travel opportunities for thousands of people on both sides of the Tasman, Jetstar head of New Zealand Grant Kerr said at today's launch at Wellington Airport.
The airline would start between Wellington and the Gold Coast December 12 and from Queenstown on December 13.
Mr Kerr said the flights would provide low fares options on the additional Tasman routes, stimulating travel and tourism in both directions.
"We've been operating domestic services to and from Wellington for over five years and we're delighted today to announce our first international services from the capital."
Both services would be operated by 180-seat Airbus A320 aircraft in a single class.
Wellington Airport chief executive Steve Sanderson welcomed the news.
"It is great to see Jetstar become an international carrier into Wellington, and we are especially pleased to open up a new route from the Gold Coast.
"The Gold Coast is a hub airport for Jetstar, and has extensive direct connections from Japan and South-East Asia. A convenient link to Queenstown is now available, and I am sure this will stimulate the Japanese and Asian markets which have been relatively flat over recent years".
Wellington-Gold Coast services are offered on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and Queenstown-Gold Coast flights on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
Jetstar was offering special seat-only fares from $99 one way from Wellington and $129 from Queenstown until midnight tonight.
Regular lead-in fares from Wellington would start from $179 and Queenstown from $229, seat-only.
