Monday, 1 December 2025: Jetstar’s first-ever direct flight between Hamilton and Christchurch takes off today, launching a brand-new daily link between Waikato and the South Island.
The service will offer more than 135,000 seats annually between the two cities on Jetstar's A320 aircraft, giving Hamilton locals a faster, easier and more affordable way to get Christchurch without the detour through Auckland.
New Zealand growth: Hamilton to Christchurch is the latest addition to Jetstar’s rapidly expanding New Zealand network, following launches of Hamilton to Gold Coast, Hamilton to Sydney, and Dunedin to Gold Coast services.
With extra capacity added across five of Jetstar’s most popular domestic and trans-Tasman routes, 2025 is one of the airline’s biggest and busiest years ever in New Zealand.
Sale fares: As part of its Black Friday Sale, Jetstar is offering one-way fares between Hamilton and Christchurch from just $53^ at jetstar.com.
Jetstar’s Head of New Zealand, Shelley Musk said the new Hamilton-Christchurch service shows Jetstar’s commitment to giving Kiwis even more ways to travel for less.
"This year has been one of Jetstar’s biggest years in New Zealand, and today’s launch is another exciting milestone. By adding Hamilton-Christchurch to our network, we’re continuing to deliver more choice and great value for Kiwi travellers."
“We know Kiwis love low fares and more choice, and that’s exactly what we’re bringing to Hamilton with this new service. Whether it’s a weekend in Christchurch, exploring the South Island or reconnecting with friends and family, we’re thrilled to make it easier than ever to get there with Jetstar.”
Hamilton Airport chief executive Mark Morgan said customers would warmly welcome more jet connectivity direct to Christchurch, as well as more choice.
“I think it’s fantastic. Again, it is an acknowledgement that Hamilton and the wider Waikato are strong and growing markets. There is a real demand here to be met and I’m sure the Jetstar flights will create interest and be well supported.”
Flight schedule (From 1 December 2025)
Flight Frequency Depart Arrive
JQ272 CHC-HLZ Daily - depart 08:10, arrive 09:25
JQ273 HLZ-CHC Daily - depart 10:00, arrive 11:15
^Sale ends 11.59pm NZDT Tuesday 2 December 2025, unless sold out prior. Prices based on payment by POLi, Jetstar voucher, Jetstar Gift Card, or bookings redeemed only in Qantas Points through jetstar.com. For other payment options, a Payment Fee applies. See jetstar.com/fees. One-way, excludes checked baggage. Selected travel dates and conditions apply.
*The membership fee to join Club Jetstar is NZD $65. The current membership fee for renewal of an existing Club Jetstar membership is NZD $55. The fees are non-refundable. T&Cs apply.
