Jetstar ramps up flights between Australia and New Zealand, adding routes and low fares that affect airport transfers

Capacity and pricing snapshot

Jetstar carried more than 700,000 customers across the Tasman in 2025, a 9% increase year‑on‑year, while offering 20,000 promotional one‑way fares from $164 and seeing nearly 400,000 travellers book trans‑Tasman trips for under $200. The carrier also added roughly 145,000 low‑fare seats last year, opening new direct links to regional New Zealand destinations.

New routes and seasonal services

Statements from leadership

Stephanie Tully, Jetstar CEO, framed the expansion as a way to strengthen New Zealand’s tourism industry, noting the focus on affordable fares and broader regional access beyond major centres. Andrew Waddel, Tourism New Zealand Regional Director – Australia, highlighted how increased direct connections make it easier for Australians to choose Aotearoa’s cities and regional destinations alike.

Operational effects on airports and ground transport

Adding low‑fare seats and new point‑to‑point services changes airport demand profiles: regional terminals see higher peak loads, while major hubs may redistribute passenger flows. For taxi and transfer operators this means shifting patterns of pickup and drop‑off, different peak times, and a higher need for predictable, bookable services.

What local transport providers should note

• Higher off‑peak regional demand: New routes create mid‑week and shoulder‑season movement into towns like Hamilton and Dunedin.
• Variable bus and shuttle needs: Seasonal Brisbane – Queenstown flights will concentrate demand around ski and summer seasons.
• Pre‑booking becomes crucial: Affordable airfares attract price‑sensitive travellers who often prefer exact pickup times and transparent fares.
• Opportunity for private transfers: Smaller groups and families may prefer private cars, limousines, or multi‑seater options to reach dispersed lodgings.

How travellers should plan transfers “at a glance”

To have a mind to move smoothly between airport and final destination, consider these simple steps:

• Check flight arrival terminals and estimated time to baggage claim.
• Book exact pickup times in advance to avoid queues and surge pricing.
• Select vehicle size—single seater, private seater, or large seater—for luggage and comfort.
• Confirm driver license verification and company details when possible.

Practical checklist for travellers

Commercial opportunities for taxi and transfer companies

Regional tourism growth driven by extra Jetstar services creates clear openings for local transfer firms: fixed‑price airport shuttles, bespoke sightseeing runs, and coordinated multi‑stop transfers for wedding parties or business delegations. Transparent pricing and the ability to pre‑select vehicle make and model add competitive advantage.

Key recommendations for providers

• Offer flexible fare brackets for promotional low‑fare periods.
• List vehicle make, model and photos so customers know exactly what to expect.
• Provide multi‑seater and private options to capture group bookings.
• Integrate simple booking confirmations with pickup location maps.

The wider impact on global tourism is modest—the Tasman corridor is already a strong bilateral market—but the extra capacity and lower fares are meaningful for regional New Zealand communities and the operators who serve them. On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide. Book your Ride LocalsRide.com

Highlights: Jetstar’s trans‑Tasman expansion means more direct routes, lower fares starting from $164, added seasonal capacity to Queenstown, and almost 400,000 sub‑$200 journeys in 2025. While reviews and ratings give a useful guide, they can’t replace firsthand experience. On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. Emphasize convenience, affordability and the wide range of vehicle choices and additional options available through the platform. Get the best offers LocalsRide.com

Summary: Jetstar’s additional trans‑Tasman capacity and new point‑to‑point routes broaden access to regional New Zealand and will shift airport pickup patterns, creating demand for precise, pre‑booked taxi and transfer services. Travellers should confirm exact pickup times, vehicle size and driver credentials to avoid surprises. LocalsRide.com supports this trend by offering transparent listings—showing vehicle make, model, photos, driver and company details—so passengers can easily book the right car for their city or regional destination, whether an airport cab, private limousine, cheap shuttle or large seater. Use the app or website to check fares, compare prices and book a ride in advance to get the best service, driver and fare for your trip.