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Wine enthusiasts from New Zealand will have a direct route to Australian vineyards for the next three years through an agreement on the continuation of flights from Auckland to the NSW Hunter Valley.
Newcastle airport and Virgin Australia announced the deal on Tuesday after a successful test last summer.
Virgin will provide three services a week during the peak holiday period, from November 21 to February 16, 2020, with the potential for service expansion over the next few years.
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Newcastle airport general manager Peter Cock described the partnership as a sign of confidence in the region.
"In light of last year's success, we are delighted to clarify and give certainty as to the longevity of these flights, which cement us as an international airport," he said in a statement.
"The first season has been a real success, bringing an estimated $ A5.4 million in economic benefits to our region.
"It is important to note that 38% of vacationers visited the Hunter for the first time, indicating that this direct service has stimulated the new demand.
"The service has also provided thousands of locals the opportunity to visit Auckland for the first time.
"In fact, 30% of Australian tourists made their first visit to the New Zealand city via this direct service."
Last summer's lawsuit announced a return to international travel for Newcastle Airport after a 16-year hiatus.
The transformation was launched with a grant of $ 11.1 million from the NSW government, which funded the expansion of the terminal into a 2,600-square-meter facility that can accommodate customs, immigration and quarantine.
The success of the lengthy negotiations to obtain an airline required the fitting out of facilities and the meeting of stakeholders such as the Australian Border Force, the NSW Police and the Ministry of Agriculture.
"As our international capabilities are now confirmed, we are strengthening the region's reputation as a key destination for domestic and international travel and as the second-largest gateway to NSW," said Dr. Cock.
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