MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate release 7 August 2009

Rotorua welcomes Air New Zealand trans-Tasman service

Trans-Tasman services through Rotorua International Airport from 12 December
will launch a new era of opportunity for business and investment in the city, Grant
Kilby, general manager of the district council Economic Development Unit, said.
“This is a huge opportunity for the district,” he said. “It offers major opportunities
to form ties with Australian businesses and to bring in investors attracted by
Rotorua’s lifestyle.”

Mr Kilby said he had already started engaging with Australian businesses. “Initial
contacts suggest early potential for at least 250 new jobs. I am confident that
more will follow.

“One interested business has already said that direct access to Rotorua is an
important factor in locating here.”

“The job and income opportunities for Rotorua residents are obvious. For local
businesses, the market can expand to include opportunities to engage with
businesses on the eastern seaboard of Australia.”

Mr Kilby said the new service would reinforce the strong position of Rotorua as a
central hub for the Central North Island – a gateway for tourism, conferences and
recreation as well as regional business with international capability.

“This breakthrough has the ability to trigger stronger business confidence and
new enterprise, supported by promotion, research and development through such
organisations as Scion, supported by new training opportunities to increase the
skills and earning capacity of residents.

“Job opportunities are wide-ranging – retail, industrial, hospitality and even
construction as Australians add their weight to the holiday home and apartment
markets for weekend breaks and longer stays.

ends