Direct Flights – Auckland To Newcastle Being Explored

Leaders of a delegation from the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia, expressed delight today after a meeting with the Mayors of Auckland and Manukau City Councils. Representatives from Local Government, airport, tourism and State Government are participating in a three day visit to New Zealand.

“There is now a commitment to jointly explore the possibility of new flights between Auckland and Newcastle Airport to capitalise on tourism and business opportunities” said Richard Bomball, Chairman of Newcastle Airport Limited.

There are already in excess of 1,000 people who travel between Auckland and the Hunter region each week according to the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA). The potential exists to develop this market with benefits to both New Zealand and the Hunter Valley region. Newcastle Airport is a gateway to the Hunter Valley region with a population of one million people, first class resorts, extensive wine growing, horse breeding, surfing, arts and cultural activities.

The delegation from the Hunter was encouraged by the interest shown from Mayors Chris Fletcher and Sir Barry Curtis. It was agreed to pursue further talks between key officers of the two Councils and Hunter officials.

Mayor Fletcher said “There is tremendous scope for identifying seasonal events and activities to attract visitors to the Auckland region from the Hunter region and vice versa. I will be encouraging our staff to pursue these ideas and work with tourism, economic development and airport interests to develop feasibility plans that add value to existing initiatives.”

Lord Mayor John Tate of Newcastle, Mayor Steve Busteed, Port Stephens and Mayor Peter Blackmore from Maitland are committed to a continuing joint approach to this regional initiative. They agree it would be a major economic boost to both regional economies.

Further meetings are scheduled with airline, airport and tourism organisations.

Contacts: Mayor Chris Fletcher, Auckland City Council
Ph: 025 276 0013 or 09 3077581

Mayor Sir Barry Curtis, Manukau City Council
Ph: 09 2628970 or 09 5348153

Lord Mayor John Tate, Newcastle City Council
Ph: 0407 017154

Mayor Steve Busteed, Port Stephens Council
Ph: 0419 607534

Mayor Peter Blackmore, Maitland City Council
Ph: 0418 680304

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