China Southern Airlines will increase its direct services to Christchurch, New Zealand, to five times a week from December 12, and daily between January 15 and February 17.
Christchurch Airport Chief Aeronautical and Commercial Officer Justin Watson says the increases in services will provide a huge economic boost for the regions of the South Island and are a direct result of the regions collectively working together.
“The regions of the South Island have been flying in formation in the China market for the past two years, working together to achieve the commencement of the direct service last December” he says. “These extra flights are a response to the awesome effort by the regional tourism organisations and businesses of the South Island, which are punching above their weight in their efforts to be great hosts to increasing numbers of Chinese visitors. The increased flights are a result of strong demand from Chinese visitors who can’t get enough of South Island scenery and hospitality.
“The extra flights represent an increase of more than 50% over the important summer season and have been announced a few days ahead of the first anniversary of the airline’s direct service between Mainland China and Christchurch.”