New Zealand tourism operators are backing a campaign by their Australian counterparts for cheaper and faster travel across the Tasman.
In a bid to lure more New Zealanders, industry body the Tourism and Transport Forum wants Australia's departure tax halved to $A25, more regional airports opened and less time spent at airports in general.
Last year, 1.2 million visitors from New Zealand travelled to Australia on short-term visits, more than from any other nation, but still 2 percent down on five years ago despite the growing population.
Chris Roberts from New Zealand's Tourism Industry Association, says until now Australia has not been that engaged on improving trans-Tasman travel.
Mr Roberts said his association will be urging the New Zealand Goverment to encourage Canberra to make it a priority.
Auckland International Airport spokesperson Charles Spillane says the changes will encourage more Australian visitors to New Zealand, especially on short breaks.
Australians travelling to New Zealand for a long weekend don't want to be held up by Customs on either side of the Tasman, he says, and believes the changes could help fill seats on the hugely competitive trans-Tasman market.
There are about 1 million empty seats each year on flights between the two countries.
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