Airlines extend specials

Air New Zealand and Air Rarotonga are extending the special fares from New Zealand to Aitutaki for those who want to be with family or assist in the cyclone relief effort on the island.

The short-life economy class discount fares from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to Aitutaki were launched last Friday for an initial two-week period.

Air New Zealand advised of the extension of the special fares yesterday – from Auckland to Aitutaki the fare is $429 (or $419 online) plus airport and government costs of $30 and from Wellington or Christchurch to Aitutaki it will cost $479 per person plus the $30 costs.

The fares, if purchased by February 25, will allow travel to be commenced and completed between now and March 15.

The fares are a discount on the lead-in through to Aitutaki and have much higher availability than normal specials as they are able to be booked all the way up to W class.

The specials are not being advertised so as to deter people not involved in the cyclone relief cause from taking advantage of them.

Both Air NZ and Air Raro are doing what they can to help Aitutaki. Air NZ is already taking gear, cargo and tradesmen from NZ to the island and Air Raro is likewise helping to get supplies to the island.