PNG looks at establishing weekly flights to and from New Zealand

Papua New Guinea is looking at the possibilities of establishing weekly flights to and from New Zealand to boost trade and tourism.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said this has come about following successful talks between officials from both governments. Minister for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Richard Maru led a delegation to New Zealand in October to look at ways to bolster trade relations between our two countries.

The New Zealand Minister for Foreign Affairs reciprocated that visit recently when he led a delegation to Port Moresby.

On both occasions, both Ministers met and discussed issues that will be mutually beneficial to both countries. Among the issues talked about was the need to establish regular flights between the two countries.

Mr O’Neill said Mr Maru has written to Air Niugini to seek the airline company’s assistance to make this work.

"The New Zealand government has also been requested to talk with Air New Zealand about the options of offering a similar service to Port Moresby and back.

"We know mines like Lihir and other resource projects in PNG already have enough New Zealand contract workers to fill up half of such a flight with their days off and days on work roster arrangements.

"We believe the return flights from Auckland will target inbound tourists from New Zealand, especially targeting the Kokoda trail hikers,” he said.

Possible routes would include Port Moresby-Nadi-and Auckland return flights or Auckland-Port Moresby and Hong Kong weekly flights on a code share basis.-------

PC Online