Opinion: Air NZ fare cuts are welcome news

It's understood Air New Zealand is working on a strategy to try and stimulate its domestic market, especially the regional routes since it announced a profit downgrade last month. Photo/File.

Weary Bay of Plenty travellers will be cheering after Air New Zealand slashed the cost of flights in and out of the Bay of Plenty.

Fares between Tauranga or Rotorua and Auckland started at $39, and flights from Rotorua or Tauranga to Wellington at $49. The prices apply to trips from March 25 onwards.

For years, those living in the regions have faced eye-watering costs when flying out of their local airport to other parts of the country.

From personal experience, it was often cheaper to drive to Auckland to catch a direct flight than fly out of the Bay of Plenty - especially if having to travel at short notice.

Cheaper flights will also make it easier for international tourists to make their way to visit some of our popular tourist attractions.

Businesses in the regions are also be welcoming the announcement.

Tauranga Chamber Of Commerce chief executive Stan Gregec said the move would make Tauranga a much more attractive and affordable destination for many.

"It should see a huge boost in domestic air travel in and out of Tauranga," he said.

But perhaps the most significant benefit will be for Bay residents who have family members living in other parts of the country who they will be able to afford to see more often.

The high cost of flights in the regions has been raised in the past by Regional Development Minister Shane Jones, a frequent critic of Air New Zealand over price increases and the closure of some regional routes.

While the pressure he applied may not have influenced Air New Zealand's plan, he deserves credit for highlighting the issue.

Affordable air travel for those living in the regions is long overdue.