Jetstar has chosen Nelson as one of their first four new destinations and locals are looking forward to the competition leading to cheaper flights.
Nelson civic and business leaders have also reacted with delight to the news that Jetstar is coming to Nelson, bringing more people, new low cost routes and a significant economic benefit for the region.
The airline will begin flying the Nelson-Auckland route in December and Nelson-Wellington in February 2016. The number of flights per week will equate to 249,500 new seats in and out of Nelson over 12 months and potentially thousands more visitors to the city.
Originair have already begun flying Nelson-Palmerston North and will soon move into the Wellington market. Meanwhile, New Zealand's newest airline, Kiwi Regional Airlines, is promising cheap domestic flights when it takes off between Nelson-Hamilton and Nelson-Dunedin.
Nelson Airport chief executive Rob Evans said that they have been the big winner. "We've got both Auckland and Wellington in the initial phase, the only destination to have two new routes". He said the airport company now had the impetus it needed for its plan to redevelop or replace the 40-year-old Nelson Airport.
Nelson Tasman Tourism chief executive Lynda Keene said the increased competition was fantastic news for Nelson and Tasman residents. "Jetstar coming in is going to make it a bit easier for people coming out of Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, particularly for trans-Tasman services."
Just a short distance from the Airport, Century Park Motor Lodge has friendly, award winning accommodation in one of the best locations in Nelson. Shortly after landing you'll be relaxing in your comfortable, well-appointed room. And we're only a few minutes wander into the bars, cafés and attractions on offer in central Nelson. We'd love to help if you have any questions about Nelson accommodation.
