Air New Zealand will begin scheduled passenger flights to and from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Airport in July, marking the first-ever international scheduled passenger flights in and out of the airport. Two flights a week to and from Auckland will commence on a seasonal trial, connecting with scheduled flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco and other northern U.S. cities.

To celebrate the new service, Air New Zealand is offering a special introductory fare from Sunshine Coast to Auckland from AUD9 per person one-way.

The sale ends Friday 2 March and a code share alliance with Virgin Australia means passengers can book through either airline’s website.

Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business Minister Jan Jarratt has welcomed Air New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast, describing the new flights as a massive confidence boost for the region and an economic shot in the arm for local tourism operators.

“This is a red-letter day for tourism on the Sunshine Coast and it shows this region has well and truly come of age,” Ms. Jarratt said.

“Not only will this flight connect the Coast with our biggest international market in New Zealand but also offers the opportunity to connect via Auckland to markets in the US and beyond. We are truly entering a whole new chapter for tourism and economic activity.

Air New Zealand, www.airnewzealand.com