From South Island to surfside - Dunedin connects with the Gold Coast

Gold Coast Airport will roll out the welcome mat today for Jetstar’s first-ever flight from Dunedin – marking another win for the city’s international network and cementing the coast as Australia’s most connected city to New Zealand. 

The new Dunedin service follows the recent launch of Jetstar’s direct Hamilton service, bringing the total number of New Zealand destinations served by Gold Coast Airport to six – more than any other Australian airport. 

The Dunedin service will operate three times a week and facilitate 58,000 seats between the two destinations each year.  

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said the new services reflect the strong partnership between the airport and Jetstar, and the ongoing demand for Trans-Tasman travel. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome the first flight from Dunedin, opening up new opportunities for tourism, business and visiting friends and relatives,” Ms Evans said. 

“This new connection not only enhances our international network but also caters to the significant New Zealand expatriate community residing on the Gold Coast.  

“Along with the new Hamilton service, our expanded Trans-Tasman network is expected to bring more than 115,000 additional passengers to and from the Gold Coast each year – delivering a significant boost to the local economy and tourism industry.” 

Jetstar New Zealand Head, Shelley Musk said: “Today is an incredibly exciting day for both Dunedin and Jetstar.  This new route is a key part of our biggest expansion in New Zealand in over a decade, and we're excited to be delivering more opportunities for Kiwis to travel for less. 

“We know the Gold Coast is a firm favourite for southerners, and it's easy to see why with its warm weather, stunning beaches, and world-class theme parks. For our Aussie friends, this new service provides more ways to access the stunning South Island, making it easier than ever to explore the unique charm of Dunedin, the adventure capital of Queenstown, and all the Deep South has to offer.”

The Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the new flights were a win for Queensland tourism.  

“We’ve just launched a 20 year tourism plan Destination 2045: Delivering Queensland’s Tourism Future and attracting flights like these are a major part of our strategy,” said Minister Powell.  

“We know Gold Coast businesses and operators are ready to welcome our friends from across the ditch with open arms, and we wish them a warm Queensland welcome.”

City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said, “There’s 58,000 reasons to celebrate today’s announcement.” 

“Securing more international connections into our city benefits our visitor economy but equally, opens the door for Gold Coasters to explore New Zealand.  

“We are now the most connected Australian city with New Zealand and I offer a special g’day to our new Kiwi visitors.’’

Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said, "This new connection with Dunedin is another milestone in reinforcing the Gold Coast as a truly global destination.” 

“We know the Gold Coast is a favourite holiday location for Kiwis, with almost a quarter of a million New Zealanders visiting our city in the year ending December 2024. This is another step forward in making it easier for Kiwis to experience the incredible lifestyle, events and natural beauty our region has to offer."

Dunedin Airport Chief Executive Officer Daniel De Bono said, “We’re absolutely stoked to be reopening the doors of Dunedin Airport to our Aussie mates. Five years is a long time between drinks and this new connection to the Gold Coast is more than just a flight, it’s a solid connection between two epic destinations.”

“Dunedin and the wider Southern region have so much to offer and now it’s easier than ever for Aussies to come and experience it for themselves. And for Kiwis, the Gold Coast is a classic – sun, surf, theme parks and all. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together with Queensland Airports to make this happen. See you at the beach, and I can’t wait to hear our border agency officers asking once again, ‘Anything to declare?"

The new service was made possible with the support of the Queensland Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF), as well as ongoing support from Experience Gold Coast and the City of Gold Coast. 

Gold Coast Airport now offers direct Trans-Tasman flights to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Hamilton and Dunedin.