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Christchurch Airport is marking Jetstar’s 20 years of flying from Ōtautahi, during which more than 17 million passengers have travelled through the terminal since 2005.
The anniversary aligns with the launch of Jetstar’s new daily Christchurch–Hamilton service, which departs today and features a water-arch welcome for the inaugural flight.
The new route increases choice for travellers and strengthens South Island–Waikato connections. With the launch and recent additional capacity on Jetstar’s Auckland and Melbourne services, the airline will offer more than 1.9 million seats each year across six Christchurch routes.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the milestone reflects a long-standing partnership focused on people, place and sustainable growth.
“For two decades, Jetstar has helped connect our region with the rest of Aotearoa and the world. We’re proud of the relationship we’ve built, and the millions of journeys that began or ended in Christchurch because of it. The new Hamilton service gives travellers even more choice, supporting both business links and whānau reconnecting for the Christmas season.”
Jetstar head of New Zealand Shelley Musk says Christchurch has always played a key role in the airline’s network.
“Today is a special day for Jetstar. Not only are we connecting Christchurch and Hamilton for the first time, but we’re also celebrating two decades of flying from Christchurch.
“This new route is a win for both regions, giving Kiwis a new opportunity to access our great low fares and helping drive tourism and business travel between these two cities.
“Christchurch has always been a key part of our network, and we’re proud to be expanding out of the Garden City as we mark this milestone.”
Jetstar Hamilton service times
| Route | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Christchurch → Hamilton | 8.10am | 9.25am |
| Hamilton → Christchurch | 10am | 11.15am |
