MEDIA RELEASE
23 August 2007

Competition a Plus for Wellington

Wellington City Council, Wellington International Airport, and Positively Wellington Tourism have welcomed Pacific Blue to Wellington.

Mike Basher, Acting CEO of Wellington Airport, says consumers could look forward to benefits which will flow from increased domestic competition.

“Virgin Blue runs a highly successful airline in its domestic Australian operations which offers very competitive fares. The entry of Virgin’s New Zealand arm, Pacific Blue, means New Zealanders will now have access to a market where there is genuine but profitable domestic competition."

Wellington Mayor, Kerry Prendergast, says the introduction of Pacific Blue services would be a win for both Wellington and Wellingtonians.

“Their entry to the domestic market will make Wellington an even more desirable tourist destination for the many New Zealanders who are rediscovering our fantastic city. It will also mean cheaper travel for Wellingtonians. It’s a win:win."

Positively Wellington Tourism CEO, Tim Cossar, says the arrival of Pacific Blue will have an impact on the domestic visitor market. “We know that airline competition in the past has tended to stimulate the market. It’s highly likely we will see increased domestic travel to Wellington, as a result of this announcement."

Pacific Blue will begin operations from Wellington Airport on 15 November commencing with 5 daily flights to Auckland and 3 to Christchurch.

ENDS

Issued by: Wellington City Council
Wellington International Airport Limited
Positively Wellington Tourism

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