New $59 Standby Fares To and From Christchurch

Air New Zealand’s standby fares are back. Following the trial in Dunedin last year, standby fares are being launched in Christchurch this weekend.

$59 one way standby fares will be available from Sunday on direct services to and from Christchurch, providing residents and would–be visitors to the city spontaneous, last minute travel opportunities.

The standby fares are available to Air New Zealand’s one million Airpoints members on any non-stop off peak (10am – 3.30pm) domestic service to or from Christchurch. That means last minute bargain seats to and from a range of great destinations including Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown and Dunedin on Air New Zealand’s domestic jet route; and regional routes such as Invercargill, Wanaka, Hokitika, Blenheim, Nelson, Palmerston North, New Plymouth, Napier, Rotorua and Hamilton.

Anyone who’s not already an Airpoints member can sign up online for free until the end of July.

Air New Zealand’s Group General Manager Australasia, Bruce Parton, says the initiative is a great way to use any spare off-peak capacity for the benefit of the Christchurch and wider Canterbury tourism industries.

“Domestic bookings to and from Christchurch have almost recovered from the February earthquake – these standby fares will give an extra boost to the local economy by encouraging visitors to head to Christchurch, as well as giving locals a chance to get away for a bit.

“It is important to point out that these are standby fares, which means passengers will only fly if there are spare seats available on the specified off peak flights. Check out the grabaseat standby page at www.grabaseat.co.nz/standbyfares for information about the relevant flights.”

Blackout periods will be put in place on peak travel days or when there is a popular event on and standby passengers have little or no chance of travelling. Tickets need to be purchased at the airport on the day of departure. The fare includes one checked bag up to 23kg and is fully refundable if the passenger doesn’t get to fly.

Sales and travel are from Sunday 12 June until further notice.