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Vancouver, BC (November 2, 2007) - Starting today, travellers can fly directly from Vancouver, Canada to Auckland, New Zealand aboard Air New Zealand, a Star Alliance partner.
The new route reduces travel time by six hours to a little over 14 hours in total. Customers will enjoy a direct flight aboard Air New Zealand's new fleet of Boeing 777-200ERs, featuring lie-flat beds, vast entertainment options and award-winning food and wine. Canadian travellers will also appreciate that the service presents fast and convenient routes to many Australian destinations.
Arriving New Zealand dignitaries on the inaugural flight this afternoon at Vancouver International Airport, including New Zealand Minister of Trade Phil Goff, will be hosted by Air New Zealand Chairman John Palmer and met by Canadian Minister of Trade David Emerson and Tourism British Columbia President and CEO Rod Harris.
At YVR, festivities range from a dramatic water-cannon salute and aboriginal exchanges to Kiwi themed shopping and dining opportunities throughout YVR's International Terminal and more.
The first flight departing Vancouver for Auckland is full. Among the guests are Canadian journalists and the winner of the Share Your New Zealand story telling contest Donna Bogyo of Delta, BC.
Earlier this year, Air New Zealand announced the non-stop route between Vancouver and Auckland starting this month to coincide with the busiest travel season between the two countries. Since the announcement, strong forward bookings led the airline to extend the offer, making the service available year-round.
"The timing is perfect for a new direct service between our two countries," said Roger Poulton, Air New Zealand Vice President - the Americas. "All indications are that this route will be among our most popular international ones."
Air New Zealand's year-round service provides three non-stop flights each week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays between Vancouver and Auckland from November- March and July-August. The service will be available twice-weekly other months; offering Canadians access to a variety of experiences throughout the seasons. Star Alliance partner Air Canada will also be code sharing on this service.
