Jetstar will fly between the Sunshine Coast and Auckland all year round from December.
The new flights will operate three times a week, creating 58,000 new seats each year between the two destinations.
Sunshine Coast Airport Chief Executive Officer Chris Mills said “we are excited to partner with Jetstar as they launch their first international service from the Sunshine Coast.”
“This new year-round service to Auckland will welcome visitors three times a week, offering choice and flexibility for travellers from both regions.
“I want to thank Jetstar, and the Queensland Government who provided vital funding to support this new service, along with our Aviation Partners Visit Sunshine Coast and Tourism Noosa.
“New Zealand represents the region’s largest contingent of overseas visitors, and this new service will boost tourism, support local business and connect loved ones across the Tasman,” Mr Mills said.
Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the flights will go “some way to alleviating the pain of losing Bonza airlines from the local market”.
The State Government has used its $200 million Attracting Aviation Investment Fund.
“The Fund is estimated to deliver more than 2.26 million inbound international seats and up to $1.95 billion in overnight visitor spend per year, supporting 22,700 Queensland jobs,” Mr Healy said.
The flights will operate on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.
