Tuesday, 24 June 2025: International flights have resumed to Dunedin, with Jetstar's inaugural service from the Gold Coast touching down today. The new route reconnects New Zealand's Deep South and Australia's Sunshine State for the first time since 2020 and will unlock more than 58,000 low-fare seats each year for Kiwi and Aussie travellers.
Operating up to three times a week on Jetstar's fleet of Airbus A320ceo and A320neo aircraft, this launch further expands Jetstar's growing New Zealand network following the launch of Hamilton to Sydney and Gold Coast services last week, and Christchurch to Cairns in April. These four new routes will collectively deliver over 250,000 new low-fare seats annually and inject millions into the tourism economies on both sides of the Tasman.
To celebrate, Jetstar is offering a special 48-hour sale for Kiwi travellers. Fares from Dunedin to the Gold Coast start from NZD$184^, available exclusively at Jetstar.com until 11:59 PM NZT on Thursday 26 June 2025.
Jetstar New Zealand Head, Shelley Musk said: "Today is an incredibly exciting day for both Dunedin and Jetstar. This new route is a key part of our biggest expansion in
New Zealand in over a decade, and we're excited to be delivering more opportunities for Kiwis to travel for less.
"We know the Gold Coast is a firm favourite for southerners, and it's easy to see why with its warm weather, stunning beaches, and world-class theme parks. For our Aussie friends, this new service provides more ways to access the stunning South Island, making it easier than ever to explore the unique charm of Dunedin, the adventure capital of Queenstown, and all the Deep South has to offer."
Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston said: "The Government has a clear priority to unleash economic growth and Tourism, as our second largest export sector, is a crucial part of that. The new service strengthens two-way connectivity for both tourism and business in the South Island and in Southeast Queensland.
"I congratulate Jetstar and Dunedin Airport for making this connection happen."
Minister for the South Island and Associate Minister of Transport, James Meager said: "The return of international flights to Dunedin Airport is an absolute win for the city, region, and wider South Island. Today marks the beginning of a new era of improved connection and greater economic opportunity - thanks to the increased flow of overseas visitors, who will help our local businesses thrive."
Dunedin Airport CEO, Daniel De Bono said: "There's real and meaningful benefit in this connection-for Dunedin, for the lower South Island, and for the Gold Coast. It's about more choice, less time in transit, and easier access on both sides-whether you're heading to Queensland for holidays, whānau or business, or discovering all that Dunedin and the Southern Way have to offer.
"We've always known this place we call home is something special, and now we're absolutely stoked to share it again. Back to Southeast Queensland, back to Australia, back to the world-and now, welcoming the Gold Coast to us too."
FLIGHT SCHEDULE
From 24 June
| Flight | Frequency | From | To | Depart | Arrive |
| JQ190 | Tues, Thurs, Sat | DUD | OOL | 1545* | 1725 |
| JQ189 | Tues, Thurs, sat | OOL | DUD | 0925 | 1445* |
*Non daylight-saving time
^Sale ends 11.59am Thursday 26 June 2025, unless sold out. Fares are in New Zealand dollars, one-way and web only. Checked bags not included. Not available on all flights or days. Availability may be limited. Prices based on payment by POLi, Jetstar voucher, Jetstar Gift Card, or bookings redeemed only in Qantas Points through jetstar.com. For all other bookings, a Payment Fee applies. Other conditions apply, things you need to know below. Subject to government and regulatory approval.
