Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia to Launch Perth - Christchurch Flights

Perth Airport has welcomed Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia’s decision to launch new non-stop flights from Perth to Christchurch, in December 2013.

Perth Airport Chief Executive Officer Brad Geatches said the new service between Perth and Christchurch brings more choice for Western Australian travellers.

“Christchurch is a fantastic destination and is now within easy reach for more Western Australians,” said Mr Greatches. “Christchurch is the gateway to the south island of New Zealand and adds to the number of leisure destinations from Perth.”

The increasing number of New Zealanders coming to Western Australia for work and leisure saw passenger growth between Perth and New Zealand increase by 20% in 2012.

“We have been working collaboratively with Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia and Christchurch Airport for more than a year to establish this new service, and we are delighted that Western Australians and South Islanders will have this exciting direct travel opportunity,” added Mr Greatches. “We are confident this will be a successful route and are pleased with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia’s commitment to Perth. We look forward to welcoming the new service in December.”

The new direct service removes the need for travellers to change flights to reach Christchurch, and reduces the flying time between the two cities by around three hours.

The service will operate from Terminal 1 two times per week on a seasonal basis from December 2013 to April 2014.