Jetstar service welcome boost, says Chamber

Wellington’s new air connection with Coolangatta in Queensland will provide a welcome boost to the region’s economy, says Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce President John Milford.

“This is a great move by Jetstar and shows the airline’s commitment to our region. They’ve always been strong supporters and this is further evidence of that.

“It’s projected that this service will bring 6000 new Australian visitors directly into Wellington and the central region of New Zealand, and that will mean economic benefits for both.

“Whether tourists stay in the city or go further afield to Wairarapa and the central North Island, or to Marlborough, there will be spinoffs.

“And there will also be benefits as families travelling the other way pass through the city to visit the growing population of ex-pat New Zealanders living on the Gold Coast.

“This is a perfect example of how valuable the right air connection can be, and surely strengthens the case for a longer runway.

“It’s been estimated this service could add around $3.8 million a year to the region’s GDP. If that’s what one short-haul service can do, imagine what a longer runway with air connections into Asia would bring.”

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