Air New Zealand's direct flights from Auckland to Hobart have recommenced, with the first flight arriving in Tasmania on Sunday.
The seasonal service will provide an additional 24,000 international seats throughout the five-month summer season, boosting visitor numbers and helping to keep Tasmania's tourism and hospitality sector strong.
The return of this important service is a great demonstration of Tasmania's appeal within the New Zealand market and beyond, with the route providing a one-stop option to Tasmania from the US.
Premier and Minster for Tourism, Jeremy Rockliff, said strong air access is critical for the tourism and hospitality industry, as well as the State's economy, trade, freight, mail and logistics.
"International visitors injected $505 million into Tasmanian in the last financial year, showing just how important this market is for our State."
Tourism Tasmania continues to work closely with airlines and airports to strengthen and maintain capacity and support the commercial sustainability of air routes through brand building and generating demand for travel to Tasmania.
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz said Hobart Airport's investment of more than $100 million in infrastructure will enable long-haul, wide-body aircraft and allow Tasmania to welcome more direct international services.
"The Tasmanian Government is supporting international air access to the State with a $5.5 million Aviation Attraction Fund being delivered as part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future," Minister Abetz said.
"This investment will enable Tasmania to be agile in leveraging opportunities for new direct air services, including from Asian hubs, to strengthen our tourism industry, increase trade opportunities and support economic growth and job creation for Tasmanians."
Air New Zealand's seasonal service to Tasmania began in 2021 and has proven popular with thousands of travellers, including many Tasmanians.
Last year saw 17,000 inbound visitors take advantage of the direct service, with data showing NZ visitors had the highest average spend of any international visitor in 2023.
The current season of Air New Zealand direct flights will conclude in March 2025.
In the year ending June 2024, Tasmania welcomed nearly 256,000 international visitors to the State.
