Doctors Slam Air New Zealand Decision to Cut Flights and Leave 'Moral Duty' in Isolated Areas

Air New Zealand's decision to cut regional flights has been slammed by New Zealand doctors since it may have serious implications in the delivery of medical services to rural communities as well as the continuing medical education of healthcare professionals.

New Zealand Rural General Practice Network chairperson Jo Scott-Jones said rural health sector leaders are often required to meet with ministers and health officials in Wellington. The cancellation of Air New Zealand operations in rural areas may pose logistics problems.

In a press release, Dr. Scott Jones, a doctor in Opotiki, said it was understandable for the airline company to think of its fiscal growth but Air New Zealand's decision to cut flights will have a negative impact on isolated communities. The network expressed its "deep disappointment" at Air New Zealand's decision and urged them to reconsider. Jones also suggested that the airline engage with various groups asking for a review.

Rose Lightfoot, Te Tai Tokerau PHO chief executive, said the regional cuts will not only marginalise health practitioners in the region but will also hamper the delivery of health services. She explained that the medical specialists who usually fly from areas like Whangarei can no longer do so since no flights are available.

According to NZDoctor, PHO monitors and supports 16 rural general practices in Northland. Lightfoot said resources and people are often brought to rural communities up to Kaitaia for continuing education. Without regional flights, the alternative now would be to travel to KeriKeri, which is an hour and a half away.

South Westland GP Martin London offered the same view and said he was concerned about the people living in rural areas. Air New Zealand's decision will only add to their isolation. He criticised the company for making a profit for their shareholders with the move but stressed the airline's "moral duty" to support services in regional areas.

Air New Zealand announced regional network cuts on Nov. 11, effectively cutting off flights to Kaitaia, Whakatane and Westport from April. Whangarei to Wellington, Taupo to Wellington, Palmerston North to Nelson flights will also be cancelled. Starting Feb. 2016, flights from Hamilton to Auckland will no longer be offered. Fairfax Media said New Zealand's official carrier is losing $1 million per month on regional routes served by a 19-seater aircraft in the last two years.