Pacific Blue to launch direct flights from Sydney to Wellington and Christchurch

On the centenary of powered flight Pacific Blue Airlines today announced it will further increase its Trans-Tasman services, confirming it will launch two new direct services early next year.

The International low fare carrier takes off on 29 January 2004 with its inaugural Brisbane-Christchurch flight, which will be closely followed by a Melbourne-Christchurch service from 4 March.

The airline has committed to launch two new routes on 10 March which are:

· Direct daily flights between Sydney and Wellington
· Direct daily flights between Sydney and Christchurch

The new Wellington service will herald Pacific Blue's first foray into New Zealand's North Island and fulfils a promise to fly to Wellington made by Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey during a flying visit to the city in 2001.

Pacific Blue CEO Tony Marks said, "While there may be plenty of Trans-Tasman competition to Auckland, until now Wellington has been largely overlooked and trapped in an airline duopoly. We think this market has great potential both for its cultural attractions such as the Te Papa Museum and its easy access to some of New Zealand's best wineries."

The Christchurch based carrier will also begin direct flights between Sydney and its home base Christchurch.

Tony Marks continued, "It is also going to be a huge benefit to Sydney based New Zealanders who have friends and family to visit back home and for visitors to both the North and South Island.

"Furthermore, the new flights mean that business people will be able to approach the New Zealand market as affordably as they can do in other States in Australia", he finished.

A special launch fare of $149* one-way is on sale from now until 25 December, 2003 and is for travel from 10 March to 30 November 2004 for travel on both routes.

Once the launch special is finished, the low fare price will be $199* (Mid-Week Mini-Fare) with a Fully Flexible fare of $399*.

As per industry practice all fares in Australia are shown in A$ and include all taxes and charges. Note that seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or peak days. Fares are quoted ex-Australia one way on the net or $10 more by phone (all prices and charges are in AUD). International flights commencing January 2004 are subject to receipt of government approvals. Mid-Week Mini-Fares are available for travel on Tuesdays & Wednesdays and are subject to availability.