Wellington, New Zealand – Two direct flights a day between Wellington and Lake Wanaka will make a weekend ski break in Australasia’s largest ski terrain a reality for Wellingtonians this winter. Charter airline operator, flyDirect has introduced a second direct daily service from Wellington to Wanaka for the 2010 ski and snowboard season.nLaunched just over a month ago, flyDirect has increased the flight schedule from Wellington to meet the high level of demand. Due to begin on July 1st to coincide with school holidays, flyDirect features flight and accommodation packages from Wellington
starting at NZ$249 for two nights.

flyDirect’s packages include a range of accommodation options, the most basic of which are included in the price with others available at additional cost. Car rental from Jucy Rentals or airport transfers are also optional extras in the packages, as are the purchase of lift tickets at all four of Wanaka’s ski areas and off-snow activities.

James Helmore, Lake Wanaka Tourism general manager, says that the Wellington market is responding positively to the new service. “With the introduction of direct flights it is so much easier and cheaper for Wellington snow sports enthusiasts to hop on a plane for a week’s holiday or a weekend break to experience the magic of Lake Wanaka in winter,” says Helmore.

Lake Wanaka is home to four ski resorts resorts and the largest heliski area outside of North America. Treble Cone is renowned for its freeeride terrain and spectacular views, Cardrona Alpine Resort offers family fun and facilities, Snow Farm is New Zealand’s only cross country ski area and Snow Park NZ is a haven for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

Flights depart from Wellington daily at 6:45 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., returning from Wanaka at 8:15 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The flight takes an hour and a half to reach Wanaka. A full in-flight service is offered on all flights.

flyDirect also offers daily service from Christchurch, which supplements the existing daily Air New Zealand service between Christchurch and Lake Wanaka.