Return of jets to Hamilton Airport a boon for the Waikato

The return of domestic jet services to Hamilton Airport for the first time in 25 years is set to be a boon for the whole of the Waikato, says Waipā District Mayor Susan O’Regan.

Air New Zealand announced this morning that jet services would be introduced five-days-a-week on the Hamilton-Christchurch route from September 18, increasing connectivity and bringing with it an expected economic boost.

O’Regan says it’s a major milestone for the region, reflecting the effort and hard work that’s gone into making Hamilton Airport an attractive and competitive option.

Jet aircraft provide a smoother and faster journey compared to turboprops. The Airbus A320 also offers more seats, helping meet increasing demand on one of the country’s strongest regional routes.

“Today’s announcement is testament to the board and executive’s hard work to position Hamilton Airport as a really attractive option,” O’Regan said.

“Not only will the addition of the service allow faster inter-island travel, it also emphasises the growing importance of our region to New Zealand.”

The announcement also comes just weeks before the airport’s new international terminal is due to open to welcome Jetstar flights from Sydney and the Gold Coast.

The trans-Tasman flights are expected to create around 60 new jobs to the airport and up to 300 more across the wider region.

Waipā District Council is a shareholder in the airport alongside four other shareholders; Hamilton City, Ōtorohanga, Waikato and Matamata-Piako District Councils.