“Please Explain About The Planes” - Wellington Chamber To Government

“Any sale of Air New Zealand shares to another airline – particularly QANTAS –must be in the interests not only of Air New Zealand but also the overall economy” said Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO Philip Lewin today.

Mr Lewin was speaking in response to the announcement of a “Joint Services Agreement” between Air New Zealand and QANTAS.

“As Wellingtonians, we’re big fans of Air New Zealand, and want it to be strong and vibrant as our flag carrier – not to be relegated to a backyard, backwater role” said Mr Lewin.

“We also want to see real competition continue both domestically and on international routes – for exporters, importers, business visitors and tourists in and out of New Zealand”

“We therefore ask the Government itself – not just the two airlines - to explain to New Zealanders the benefits of any sell-down and the package that goes with it, before any final decision is taken by Cabinet to proceed” Mr Lewin concluded.

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