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Air New Zealand is celebrating a significant milestone as it marks 30 years of direct flights between Auckland and Queenstown. Over the past decade, the airline has transported more than seven million passengers on this route. This summer, Air New Zealand plans to operate up to 116 return services weekly, increasing to 156 during the Christmas period.
Scott Carr, Air New Zealand's General Manager Domestic, reflected on the early days of this service. "I was based in Christchurch when we launched the direct Auckland to Queenstown service and I remember what a milestone moment it was," he said. He emphasized the importance of connecting New Zealand's main international hub with the Southern Lakes region.
The route is not only popular among travelers but also serves as a crucial cargo link. Carr noted that "we carry a large amount of cargo between the two centres," highlighting that lobster accounts for approximately 250 tonnes of cargo carried north from Queenstown each year.
