Jetstar’s first-ever direct flight between Hamilton and Christchurch took off Monday, as the airline celebrated 20 years of operations in Christchurch.

The new daily service, operated by Jetstar’s A320 aircraft, will provide more than 135,000 new low-cost seats annually on the route

The direct connection offers travellers a new affordable and convenient way to fly between the North and South islands without needing to connect through Auckland.

It will enhance competition on the route while providing new opportunities for customers to take off more for less to visit friends and family or travel for business.

Jetstar’s growth

Since launching its first Christchurch service in 2005, Jetstar has carried more than 17 million passengers through the airport, connecting Kiwis to destinations across New Zealand, Australia and beyond.

Hamilton to Christchurch is the latest addition to Jetstar’s rapidly expanding New Zealand network, following the launch of Hamilton to Gold Coast, Hamilton to-Sydney, and Dunedin to Gold Coast services this year. 

With extra capacity added across five of Jetstar’s most popular domestic and trans-Tasman routes, 2025 is officially one of the airline’s biggest and busiest years in New Zealand.

Sale fares

As part of Jetstar’s massive Black Friday Sale, the airline is offering one-way fares between Christchurch and Hamilton from just $53^ at jetstar.com.

Jetstar’s Head of New Zealand, Shelley Musk:

“Monday was 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.”

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 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.”