Air NZ

Air New Zealand and the Wanaka Chamber of Commerce squared off yesterday at the Wanaka Airport plan change hearing on just how big Wanaka Airport could be in 20 years' time.

Qantas and Jetstar flights from Australia were still grounded yesterday as the rising Chilean volcanic ash cloud continued to disrupt the carriers' flight paths.

About 50 Auckland and Hamilton mums, their 80 relatives and well-wishers descended on Queenstown for a specially themed Air New Zealand flight to celebrate Mothering Sunday and New Zealand Music Month yesterday.

Air New Zealand is still regarded as having good earnings potential despite rising fuel prices, Forsyth Barr broker Suzanne Kinnaird said yesterday.

Air New Zealand has reported a strong start to the financial year on the back of growing passenger numbers, cargo volumes and yields, but brokers fear its performance could be hit by the Christchurch earthquake.

The proposed transtasman alliance between Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue could rest on a decision expected soon from Transport Minister Stephen Joyce.

Air New Zealand deputy chief executive Norm Thompson yesterday welcomed a move by the Queenstown Lakes District Council to seek independent commercial advice on the strategic alliance between Queenstown and Auckland airports.

Without the Star Alliance, New Zealand would be a "poorer nation", Air New Zealand chief executive Rob Fyfe said yesterday.

Queenstown business operators have been urged to help Air New Zealand with the "very serious issue" of attracting visitors for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

An Australian consumer watchdog is expected to release its decision on the proposed alliance between Air New Zealand and Pacific Blue by the end of the year.