Originair says it's already had to reduce flights between Westport and Wellington - and the route's now set to be axed by May.

The regional carrier stepped in when Sounds Air withdrew from the service in 2024.

Now, it says it's struggling with the small market and increasing operating costs.

Managing director Robert Inglis says it's cut the service back to three times a week - which went well over summer.

"But winter's another thing, and then, of course, the additional doubling of fuel price - we've just unfortunately had to make a hard call."

Originair has applied for Government funding to help it continue the service.

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Originair says it's already had to reduce flights between Westport and Wellington - and the route's now set to be axed by May.
The regional carrier stepped in when Sounds Air withdrew from the service in 2024.
Now, it says it's struggling with the small market and increasing operating costs.
Managing director Robert Inglis says it's cut the service back to three times a week - which went well over summer.
"But winter's another thing, and then, of course, the additional doubling of fuel price - we've just unfortunately had to make a hard call."
Originair has applied for Government funding to help it continue the service.
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Robert Inglis: Originair managing director on the carrier axing route between Westport and Wellington

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/f89fb053-434a-4a18-a987-b412005e3da7/transcript