Long Live Competition; Long Live Choice

Long Live Competition; Long Live Choice

Origin Pacific is pleased – and relieved – that the Commerce Commission’s draft determination has indicated on the basis of the information it has to date that the Commission is likely to decline authorisation of the proposed Alliance.

“At least at the moment, this is a victory for competition and freedom of choice for travellers,” said Origin Pacific CEO, Tony Marks. “The go ahead for the merger of the two airline giants would be the equivalent of a shotgun marriage between the All Blacks and Wallabies. We all want to watch the two sporting teams compete on a level playing field and embody the spirit of fair play, not be presented with a gang of one.”

“ We recognise, of course, that it’s still early days and we’re sure the draft determination will be strongly challenged by the applicants. We continue to believe however that the public and national interest will not be protected through sanctioning the airline monopoly which would result from the alliance. It would be foolish to see the alliance if it proceeds as anything but a huge blow to competition.

Mr Marks said Origin Pacific is a fighter and is committed to pushing for effective competition in the New Zealand markets. “The draft determination of the Commission is a welcome step in that direction.

“We’re proud to be a New Zealand owned airline and an airline that’s made for New Zealand and the kiwi lifestyle,” he said. “We are part of New Zealand – it’s our country of Origin.”

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