Qantas makes Major Investment in Domestic New Zealand Market

Qantas has confirmed it is to implement a multi-million dollar investment in its New Zealand domestic product from November 2007. Product enhancements to be introduced over the coming months will be especially targeted to the business traveller.

Qantas Regional General Manager New Zealand Grant Lilly "Cityflyer is being tailored for the specific needs of our New Zealand business travellers, and will operate on the major business routes of Auckland-Wellington, Auckland-Christchurch and Wellington-Christchurch."

The enhancements being offered under Cityflyer will include:

- online check-in and Qantas QuickCheck self-serve kiosks;
- complimentary morning newspapers; 
- a free bar service from 4pm on weekdays; and
- an enhanced food offering, with the addition of substantial cafe-style meal items, the introduction of fresh fruit and new food and beverage equipment.

Qantas has also confirmed it will:

- invest $3 million to upgrade its domestic Qantas Club lounges in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington, including new fittings and furnishings, with work to be completed by April 2008;

- progressively refresh the cabins on its B737 domestic fleet, introducing new seat fabrics, curtains and carpets specially designed by renowned industrial designer and Qantas Creative Director Marc Newson; and 

- introduce a fifth aircraft to the New Zealand domestic fleet in 2008, taking the fleet to five B737s.

The additional aircraft will enable Qantas to reintroduce services between Christchurch and Wellington.

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