Peter Gutwein,Premier
For the first time in over 20 years, Tasmania will welcome direct flights from across the Tasman with Air New Zealand to introduce a new direct flight service between Auckland and Hobart.
We've reached an agreement with Air New Zealand for a new twice-weekly service which will fly on Thursday and Sundays and is due to begin around Anzac Day, with the possibility of a third flight as demand increases.
Yesterday I met with the Hobart International Airport who advised that it will be ready to accept the flights with their terminal work nearing completion. I also want to acknowledge the Australian Government who will stand up the Australian Border Force arrangements to be in place for the commencement of the new flights.
The introduction of this new international service into Tasmania is great news for our community and our tourism industry as it will bring more visitors to our shores who are keen to spend, as well as opening up new areas for Tasmanians keen to travel.
Tasmania welcomed 25,000 visitors per year from New Zealand prior to COVID-19, so we only expect this to increase without the requirement to transit via the mainland.
Tasmania has some of the best tourism experiences in the world, and I'm sure New Zealanders will be very keen to fly directly here, travel around the State and see what we have to offer.
Tourism Tasmania has also been raising awareness of Tasmania as a unique and safe holiday destination in New Zealand through the Come Down for Air marketing campaign since January 2021.
Flights will become available for booking in coming days, and I look forward to welcoming the first flight from Auckland into Hobart International Airport when it arrives.
I will also be writing to the New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Adern to invite her to visit our beautiful state, the jewel in the crown of Australian destinations, at the earliest opportunity.
