Budget carrier AirAsia X is launching non-stop flights between the Gold Coast and Auckland in March.
The service will be a continuation of its existing Kuala Lumpur-Gold Coast route with passengers able to book through tickets from KL to New Zealand or just fly between the Gold Coast and Auckland.
The route extension begins on March 22 using A330-300 aircraft which feature Premium Flatbed seats.
It marks AirAsia’s return to the New Zealand market after a gap of four years.
"There are many Kiwis who live in the Gold Coast, about 25% of the population there," said chief executive officer Benyamin Ismail.
Benyamin said AirAsia X will add two new routes to China in the second half of 2016, but expansion will be much more conservative than in previous years to keep a lid on operating costs.
The carrier is taking delivery of just two new planes this year and none during 2017.
