In a historic milestone for trans-Tasman connectivity, Jetstar’s inaugural year-round flight from Auckland touched down at Sunshine Coast Airport this morning. The launch marks a pivotal moment for tourism and business, strengthening ties between New Zealand and Australia while offering travellers unprecedented convenience and affordability.
Passengers aboard the inaugural service were greeted with quintessential Sunshine Coast warmth as iconic surf lifesavers and enthusiastic locals rolled out a spirited welcome. Local dignitaries, including Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell, and Noosa Council Deputy Mayor Brian Stockwell, celebrated the occasion alongside Jetstar executives and tourism representatives.
“This new service is a monumental leap forward for connectivity between our regions,” said Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills. “The demand for this route has been strong, and it’s already proving to be a boon for tourism and local businesses. With 58,000 low-fare seats annually, this service will unlock tremendous economic and cultural opportunities for both destinations.”
Passengers are taking off from Sunshine Coast Airport and going to Auckland.
Bridging Borders: A Boost for Tourism and Local Economies
The tri-weekly service, operating on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, provides Sunshine Coast residents with direct, affordable access to Auckland and onward to New Zealand’s breathtaking destinations. Conversely, Kiwi travellers can enjoy seamless year-round entry to the Sunshine Coast’s renowned beaches, hinterlands, and biosphere reserves.
“New Zealanders are integral to our tourism economy,” Mr. Mills emphasized. “This route opens new doors for both regions and reflects our shared commitment to fostering sustainable tourism.”
The Queensland Government has championed the initiative, leveraging its Attracting Aviation Investment Fund to make the service a reality. Minister Andrew Powell highlighted this new connectivity’s significant impact on the region’s economic and tourism strategies.
“Queensland welcomes more visitors from New Zealand than from any other country,” said Minister Powell. “These flights not only simplify travel but also align perfectly with our 20-year tourism strategy focused on accessibility and connectivity. Kiwis can now go from the tarmac to our stunning beaches in record time, whether they’re exploring Maroochydore, Noosa, or beyond.”
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli heralded the flights as a key catalyst for regional growth ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Year-round international connectivity is a vote of confidence in our region’s potential,” Mayor Natoli remarked. “New Zealanders already represent our largest international market, and this service will amplify that impact, supporting our tourism operators and local businesses. From our pristine coastlines to our vibrant hinterlands, we’re excited to share the best of the Sunshine Coast with our Kiwi neighbours.”
Industry Leaders Applaud the Milestone
Tourism Noosa CEO Sharon Raguse and Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel highlighted the route’s transformative potential.
“This is a game-changer,” Ms. Raguse stated. “In the year ending June 2024, New Zealand visitors contributed nearly $30 million to Noosa’s economy. With direct flights, we expect this number to soar as Kiwi travelers discover even more of what makes Noosa and the Sunshine Coast unique.”
Mr Stoeckel echoed this sentiment: “New Zealand is our largest international market. Our team’s recent trade missions and our ‘Sunshine Moments’ campaign—our largest ever for the New Zealand market—underscore the importance of this connection. This year-round service lays the groundwork for further direct routes from other New Zealand cities.”
Jetstar’s Commitment to Low-Fare Travel
Jetstar’s Executive Manager, Customer, Jenn Armor, expressed the airline’s enthusiasm for expanding its Sunshine Coast network.
“The Sunshine Coast is one of our most beloved destinations,” Ms. Armor noted. “This service not only supports tourism but also reconnects Kiwi expats with their home country. We’re thrilled to partner with the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Airport to make this happen.”
The Road Ahead: A Brighter Horizon
With the inaugural flight setting the tone for what’s to come, stakeholders are optimistic about the route’s long-term success. The Sunshine Coast’s growing appeal as a destination and the convenience of year-round flights position the region for continued tourism and economic growth.
For Kiwis and Aussies alike, Jetstar’s Auckland-Sunshine Coast route promises a bridge across the Tasman and a gateway to unforgettable experiences on both sides of the ditch.
Written by: Michelle Warner
