Air New Zealand planning to cut fares

Air New Zealand Ltd said it will cut fares on some domestic routes by up to 50% from Nov 1 as part of the new Air New Zealand Express Class.

Company chief executive officer Ralph Norris said: "Today's announcement on fares represents the most significant fare reduction programme yet undertaken by Air New Zealand across its domestic services."

Average fares across the Air NZ domestic network will decrease by 20% and by about 28% on main trunk routes.

Business class seating will be removed from Air NZ's Boeing 737-300s and there will be no inflight meal or alcoholic beverage offering.

A new inflight snack service including tea, coffee and water will be provided on all Air NZ Express aircraft.