Sunshine Coast Welcomes Back Air New Zealand Direct Flights, Anticipates Tourism Surge

Thursday, June 20, 2024

Executives from Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC) and Sunshine Coast Airport (SCA) were in Auckland this week for meetings with Air New Zealand and key trade partners in anticipation of the direct air services resumption between Auckland Airport and Sunshine Coast Airport on 26 June.

The seasonal service will run throughout the winter, and after a strong performance in 2023, the Sunshine Coast team is optimistic about attracting record numbers of Kiwi visitors in 2024.

The Air New Zealand flights will commence at an ideal time for adventure enthusiasts, with Mooloolaba being one of Australia’s top destinations for whale watching, swimming with whales, and even whale listening experiences.

This period also coincides with peak foodie events, including The Curated Plate festival, which runs from 26 July to 4 August.

The Air New Zealand flights will continue through October, and Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel welcomed the relaunch of the direct service.

“We know the Kiwi market has a great affinity with the Sunshine Coast, it’s our biggest international market and we see great potential for it to grow,” said Mr Stoeckel.

“We will continue to work with the Air New Zealand team as well as our trade partners to make the most out of the seasonal service and drive extra business to the region.”

Sunshine Coast Airport General Manager of Aviation and Commercial, Scott Norris, highlighted that the return of Air New Zealand would open up significant tourism and business opportunities for the region.

“The trip to Auckland with VSC has been incredible and I am excited to see Air New Zealand touch down at Sunshine Coast Airport again next week,” Mr Norris said.

“Every year we see thousands of New Zealanders choosing to fly directly to the Sunshine Coast, and with more than 17,000 seats available between the two destinations this season, we are expecting big things again in 2024.”

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