Pacific Blue to expand Trans Tasman services

Pacific Blue is to continue its Trans Tasman expansion by launching two brand new routes from November 2004. The two new services will be:

• Christchurch – Gold Coast direct
• Wellington – Brisbane direct

The Virgin Blue owned NZ based International carrier has identified Queensland’s Sunshine State as a hugely popular choice for Kiwis, with New Zealand also proving a hit with Queenslanders.

Head of Strategy and Communications, David Huttner, said, “The statistics speak for themselves and clearly indicate that Queensland is one of the most popular international holiday destinations for New Zealanders, while a growing number of Queenslanders see New Zealand as an exciting and convenient holiday option. More and more Australians are taking short breaks to different regions of New Zealand with the Wellington region offering a great choice of cultural offerings, award winning wineries and the nearby Abel Tasman National Park. Further south, Christchurch is proving to be the ideal gateway for the stunning scenery of the south island. We are confident the expansion of Pacific Blue routes will stimulate more people to travel more often, for less”.

Pacific Blue currently operates services from Christchurch to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne as well as between Wellington and Sydney.

The new service between Christchurch and the Gold Coast will operate twice a week, as will the Wellington-Brisbane service.

Pacific Blue is offering a special launch fare of $149 one-way on the net, on sale from now until 19 September 2004, for travel between 1 November to 15 December 2004. Everyday low fares on both routes will start from $219 one way on the net.