From Monday, 29 April Sunair will offer daily weekday flights connecting Hamilton to Gisborne, Napier and Whangārei.

Hamilton Airport chief executive Mark Morgan said the flights to Gisborne and Napier are fast, taking just 60 minutes.

“It’s a little bit longer  to Whangārei but the schedule means you can park at our airport, jump on a flight and be home in time for dinner with the family.”

Sunair is no stranger to Hamilton, having previously offered scheduled services around the upper North Island from Hamilton Airport.  It more recently offered charter services.

But the schedule will now see Sunair offering regular flights to and from Hamilton every week day on six-seater twin engine Piper Aztec aircraft.

Morgan said the flights were important in terms of regional connectivity and providing an alternative to lengthy road travel. 

“That’s really important, especially when faced with disruption from weather events, for example. The schedule also gives passengers a good option to travel north without having to go through Auckland and deal with traffic congestion and delays.”

Dan Power, Flight Operations Manager at Sunair, said "with Hamilton's remarkable growth as New Zealand's fastest-expanding city, we at Sunair are excited to enhance its connectivity with key regional centres like Napier and Gisborne.  Our new routes are not just about speed and comfort; they represent our commitment to supporting Hamilton's dynamic needs. Whether it's for a critical business meeting or a spontaneous getaway, our services ensure you arrive refreshed and return home in time for tea.”