Jetstar Unveils New Gold Coast to New Zealand Routes, Boosting Low-Cost Travel
Jetstar Unveils New Gold Coast to New Zealand Routes, Boosting Low-Cost Travel
New direct routes to Hamilton and Dunedin from the Gold Coast will increase low-cost travel options by 115,000 seats per year.
What’s happening?
Jetstar announced two new direct trans-Tasman routes from the Gold Coast to Hamilton and Dunedin, New Zealand, set to launch in June 2025. These services will operate three times a week, adding more than 115,000 low-fare seats annually. To support the new routes, Jetstar will base an additional aircraft on the Gold Coast, bringing its local fleet to six. Jetstar also introduced a new route from Sydney to Hamilton, adding 75,000 more seats per year.
Why it Matters?
This expansion strengthens Gold Coast’s position as a key tourism hub, unlocking more affordable travel options and boosting the local economy. Jetstar’s expansion is expected to generate millions in revenue for local tourism operators. For New Zealanders, it offers increased connectivity and lower airfares to Queensland, benefiting both leisure and business travellers.
Jetstar Group CEO, Stephanie Tully, highlighted the importance of tourism to the Gold Coast, saying, "Tourism is a key industry on the Gold Coast and the new agreement with Queensland Airports will support the growth of inbound tourism and provide a big boost to local operators."
She also expressed gratitude for the support from Queensland’s stakeholders: "We thank the Queensland Government and Queensland Airports for their ongoing support of low fares travel across the Sunshine State."
By the Numbers
115,000+ new low-fare seats yearly for Gold Coast-Hamilton and Gold Coast-Dunedin routes.
75,000+ new seats annually for the Sydney-Hamilton route.
Three weekly flights between Gold Coast and both Hamilton and Dunedin.
Jetstar’s Gold Coast-based fleet will increase to six by June 2025.
Nearly 500,000 Kiwis visited Queensland by March 2024, contributing $821 million in overnight visitor expenditure.
Zoom in
These new routes mark the first time Jetstar will fly from Gold Coast to Hamilton, opening a second gateway to New Zealand’s North Island for Queenslanders. The Dunedin route will provide a direct connection to the South Island’s second-largest city, offering travellers flexible options to fly into one part of the country and out of another.
Queensland Airports Limited CEO, Amelia Evans, emphasized the benefits for New Zealand travellers, stating, "The new services offer greater connectivity and choice for customers, making air travel more accessible for Kiwis looking to holiday on the Gold Coast."
Zoom Out
This expansion follows the signing of a seven-year agreement between the Qantas Group and Queensland Airports, supporting long-term growth for both Jetstar and Qantas. The new services also position Gold Coast Airport as the most connected Australian airport to New Zealand, providing a boost to the trade, tourism, and education sectors.
Local Impact
The additional routes are expected to deliver over 115,000 passengers annually to the Gold Coast, enhancing local tourism and supporting Kiwi ex-pats living in Queensland. The influx of travellers will also offer a significant boost to businesses across the region.
Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy encouraged New Zealand travellers to seize the opportunity, stating, "What a win for New Zealand travellers who can now access these new, affordable, regular flights, allowing them to visit Queensland and explore this great state without blowing the budget."
What to look for next
Jetstar’s 24-hour Route Launch Sale starts at 10 am AEST on 16 September 2024, with promotional fares starting at $155 for Gold Coast to Hamilton, $169 for Gold Coast to Dunedin, and $159 for Sydney to Hamilton. The sale will end on 17 September 2024 at 10 am AEST, or until sold out.
^Sale ends 10.00 am AEST Tuesday 17 September 2024, unless sold out prior. Prices are based on payment by PayID, Jetstar voucher, Jetstar Gift Card, or bookings redeemed only in Qantas Points through jetstar.com