Media release – Michael Ferguson, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, 7 July 2022
International flights re-commence into Hobart in boost for tourism and Tasmania’s economy
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is strengthening Tasmania’s future by providing more tourism opportunities for our great State.
I was very pleased to attend Hobart Airport today to welcome the resumption of direct services between Hobart and Auckland, which marks an exciting new opportunity for international travel in and out of Tasmania.
It was fantastic to see how keen New Zealanders are to come and explore what Tasmania has to offer.
Air New Zealand will operate its non-stop flight service twice per week on Thursdays and Sundays, with the aim to increase to three services per week over the summer period.
Prior to the suspension of flights in July 2021 due to border restrictions, Air New Zealand reported that the Hobart to Auckland services were its strongest performing Trans-Tasman route in an overall cautious market.
Market demand for the service is expected to bounce back quickly due to Tasmania’s safe destination status and incredible tourism experiences. Tasmania’s high-quality produce, stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife and world-class arts and culture are amongst the key drawcards for our Kiwi neighbours.
The return of direct international passenger flights is a very exciting milestone for Tasmania in a much-needed boost for our tourism operators recovering from the impacts of COVID-19.
I thank Australian Border Force officials for working so hard to support the recommencement of international flights to and from Hobart.
The direct flights also offer exciting opportunities to access several destinations in the North American market with Air New Zealand flying to six destinations across the USA and Canada, including Vancouver, Honolulu, Los Angeles and Houston, as well as New York from late September and Chicago from October.
The ability to fly one-stop to all these destinations via Auckland is very attractive for both Tasmanians and visitors alike.
With the resumption of direct flights, Tourism Tasmania is planning further marketing activities in New Zealand to build on destination demand as well as promotional activity across its North American markets.
The world wants what Tasmania has and a more diverse trade and tourism strategy means more jobs and more opportunities for Tasmania.
Tasmania welcomes around 20,000 visitors every year from New Zealand, and we expect this to increase thanks to these new direct flights, which, on top of benefiting the tourism industry is supporting more Tasmanians to more easily reconnect with family and friends across the ditch.
The Premier is leading a Tourism and Trade Mission to New Zealand at the end of the month as part of our plan to grow and diversify opportunities across the globe.
The mission provides a fantastic opportunity to build upon existing relationships, increase awareness around two-way trade and business opportunities and secure business with key New Zealand travel partners to further support the flights between Auckland and Hobart.
Auckland to Hobart direct flights are on sale now at www.airnewzealand.com.au.
Media release – The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism; The Hon Clare O’Neil MP, Minister for Home Affairs; The Hon Julie Collins MP, Member for Franklin, 7 July 2022
RETURN OF INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO HOBART
The Australian Government welcomes today’s return of international passenger flights to Hobart.
After their temporary suspension due to COVID-19 in July 2021, the return of twice weekly flights from Hobart to Auckland provides a welcome boost to tourism and trade throughout Tasmania.
The Australian Government is supporting the return of these flights by providing border services at Hobart Airport.
This support will complement the Australian Government’s commitment to upgrade and strengthening Hobart Airport’s runway, taxiway and apron facilities, allowing the airport to service long-distance freight and wide-body international flights in the future.
When complete, this project will bring more tourists to Tasmania and more Tasmanian produce to the world.
This project is expected to support over 1,200 jobs in Hobart alone.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“Airports are essential infrastructure that create jobs and grow opportunities.
“By helping reopen direct international flights and by investing in upgrading and strengthening the runway, the Australian Government is partnering with Hobart Airport to build a better future for all Tasmanians.”
Quotes attributable to Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell:
“Australians are spending more time and more money on holidays in Tasmania.
“This domestic tourism is important, and the return of international flights and visitors is the crucial next step in the recovery of the state’s tourism sector from the impacts of the pandemic.”
Quotes attributable to Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil:
“Welcoming international flights back into Hobart Airport, with the support of border services, will encourage more visitors.
“The Australian Border Force will be on hand at Hobart to welcome visitors and provide immigration and customs clearance.
“And with the removal of the Digital Passenger Declaration yesterday, flying into Hobart will be much quicker and easier.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins:
“The return of these flights is a big win for our state and I know Tasmanians will be excited to welcome back New Zealanders.
“The Australian Government is backing more opportunities for our state’s tourism and export industries with the funding to upgrade Hobart Airport runway.”
