Air NZ, Virgin launch direct Perth-Christchurch flights

Air New Zealand will offer a twice-weekly direct service between Perth and Christchurch, a new route which will be operated in conjunction with Virgin Australia.

The service will operate in the peak season from December until April.

The route will be operated by Air New Zealand Boeing 767 aircraft and Virgin Australia will codeshare on the service.

Virgin Australia chief commercial officer Judith Crompton said the two airlines had been working together for about two years to enhance services across the Tasman.

“Linking Christchurch with Perth, which has long had the highest growth rate of all Australian capital city airports, will provide an attractive service for business and leisure travellers alike,” Ms Crompton said.

Perth Airport chief executive Brad Geatches congratulated the airlines on establishing the route.

Passenger growth between Perth and New Zealand grew by 20 per cent in 2012, Mr Geatches said.

“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.”