Originally Posted by
edison
I was booking flights of ZQN-AKL at late March. Originally I was going to do CHC-AKL but with recent events we decided to do ZQN-AKL instead. We are trying in group of 4.
I was comparing prices for NZ and JQ, and I noticed that JQ costs more or very similar to NZ for ZQN-AKL. In fact, NZ was cheaper than JQ by $NZD60 ($139 vs $199) on the day I wanted to fly. Obviously I decided to book NZ.
Whilst AirNZ domestic only offers water/tea and snacks, they have higher frequencies of flights (3 flights per day vs 1), why would anyone want to fly JQ (which offers nothing)? Is it just me or the Kiwis get suck in to JQ being a LCC and always have cheaper prices?
BTW, as me and better half being BD *G, I still can access to lounges at ZQN, right?
Also is there still Space+ seats in domestic? I thought they get rid of them already. I actually could select Space+ seat online.
My experience is that at the last minute, JQ can be considerably cheaper. But like you note, it's definitely not universal, particularly when bags are factored into headline fares. Not to mention I've never had a $1 fare from JQ, whereas I've had plenty from NZ.
Yes you will have access to the lounge at ZQN, which is my favourite of the regional lounges I've been in - small and simple, but modern and with a stunning view of the Remarkables. Enjoy it!