Low-cost Qantas Group airline Jetstar is to start trans-Tasman flights out of Auckland in April.
The daily direct flights to Sydney and the Gold Coast, will add to the 28 weekly trans-Tasman return trips Jetstar already operates between Christchurch and Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The daily return Auckland services are due to start on April 28, subject to regulatory approval.
Jetstar chief executive Bruce Buchanan said trans-Tasman expansion was a logical next step in developing New Zealand operations, following the profitable performance of its Christchurch services.
Jetstar was committed to offering the lowest fares on the trans-Tasman market, he said.
The airline was also to apply for a future New Zealand air operator certificate, which would provide it with flexibility for any future flying opportunities.
Jetstar said its normal every day one-way web fares on the new routes from Auckland would start from $199.
Auckland Airport chief executive officer Simon Moutter said Jetstar's announcement supported the strong potential for growth in the trans-Tasman market.
