In the aftermath of the Covid-19 alert level 4 lockdown Air New Zealand slashed its domestic routes, removing Queenstown completely from its schedule. "Even one or two will make a huge difference and will mean that people who live here can do business around the country. "Most importantly once we get down to level 1 or 2 we'll get that return of a domestic tourism market." He said even if two jets were flying into Queenstown by June, it would make a huge difference "but most importantly it will give businesses some oxygen". "A basic air service will make a huge difference right now while we're on our knees."

Source: Otago Daily Times April 27, 2020 22:18 UTC