An expansion of Air New Zealand's schedule of direct flights between Dunedin and Auckland could add significant value to the local economy and create jobs, the Otago Chamber of Commerce says.
The airline has announced three extra A320 jet services a week between the cities, adding more than 1000 seats a week to the schedule.
Air New Zealand chief sales and commercial officer Cam Wallace said the additional services would operate from July on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, departing Auckland at 12.35pm and returning from Dunedin at 3pm.
‘‘This represents a 22% increase in seat capacity on the route.''
The airline would also amend its overall schedule for flights between the two cities from May, offering customers an extended business day Mondays to Fridays, and improving international connectivity, Mr Wallace said.
‘‘It's great to see demand growing for services between Dunedin and Auckland, and we are confident that by continuing to work with the city, we can further encourage travel to and from the city and wider Otago region.''
Seats on the additional services would be available to buy from next week, he said.
Otago Chamber of Commerce chief executive Dougal McGowan said the increased connectivity was great news for business and potential visitor numbers.
‘‘It creates greater opportunity for businesses to engage with their Auckland-based colleagues and customers; it creates greater access and connectivity to destinations within New Zealand and internationally; and it's a great result for the city, with more availability for visitor numbers with increased load capacity.
‘‘It has the potential to add significant value in the long term, to the economy and the creation of jobs.''
Dunedin Airport chief executive officer Richard Roberts said the new direct flights were the result of a concerted and collaborative effort between Air New Zealand and the city.
Enterprise Dunedin director John Christie said the city, Dunedin Airport and Air New Zealand had worked much more closely during the past few years, which resulted in the signing of a memorandum of understanding in June last year.
‘‘This led to a greater understanding of each other's businesses and these additional services are testament to this relationship.''
Mr McGowan said it highlighted the positive aspect of a city-wide approach and it was a great result for all those who advocated for more services.
