Airport chief executive Dr Peter Cock said he was buoyed by staff’s professionalism in dealing with the rigours of international travellers as well as the public’s response up until the final service touched down on Sunday.

“From our perspective, the Newcastle-Auckland service was a great success across a range of measures,” Dr Cock said. 

“Passenger numbers grew strongly throughout the season and the airport has proven itself to be a capable international facility. 

“We are currently in negotiations to continue the service next season and are confident of continuing to fly to our close neighbour.”

It was reported earlier this month that the airport has high hopes of a $147 million suite of upgrades that would bring Asia and the west coast of the United States within range. 

“Ideally we want to grow that international presence and are hopeful that political support will allow for upgrades to the runway we access from RAAF Base Williamtown," Dr Cock said.

“We could then provide our region with the airport they truly deserve. 

“An airport that can fly, not just to New Zealand, but to LA, Seoul and Tokyo,” he added.

Surveys undertaken at Newcastle Airport showed that most people flying the route were making only their first or second visit to New Zealand.

It was earlier estimated that the trans-Tasman route would provide $6.1 million

to the local economy from approximately 9000 visitors to the region across the 13 week season.

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