Excitement was in the air this morning as the first Jetstar flight from Australia touched down at Hamilton Airport – marking the return of regular international services for the first time in over a decade.
The new trans-Tasman connection links Waipā directly with Sydney and the Gold Coast, delivering a significant boost to the region’s tourism, business, and investment opportunities.
Waipā Mayor Susan O’Regan was on the first flight from Sydney, joined by her Hamilton counterpart Paula Southgate and fellow enthusiastic travellers. She said the trip was smooth, with the fine weather offering a perfect welcome to the region.
“It was such a pleasure to be part of this historic day to celebrate the return of international flights and the great partnerships that got us here,” she said. “It’s a real show of confidence in the Waikato, our economy and our potential.
“Waipā is growing, and we are investing smartly in the future - from infrastructure to strategic planning. And the airport, along with the industrial and commercial zones surrounding it, is a critical part of our story”.
The new Jetstar service will operate three return flights a week from the Gold Coast and four return flights from Sydney. It offers locals a convenient and affordable gateway to Australia while making it easier than ever for Australian tourists and whānau to reach the heart of the central North Island.
“On a personal level, like many in our community, I’ve got family across the ditch – and this makes staying connected with them that much easier,” added O’Regan.
The first arrival was met with a celebration at the terminal, featuring a rousing kapa haka performance from Te Awamutu Intermediate, and a warm welcome from local leaders and community representatives.
Jetstar’s commitment to reintroducing international flights from Hamilton Airport will help further cement the airport’s role as a vital regional asset – connecting people, growing the economy, and unlocking new opportunities for Waipā and beyond.
