DJ made a suggestion that come November they will make announcements about two other destinations in NZ. Assuming they use 738s, which two places ?
Virgin Blue/Pacific Blue have always expressed an interest in Trans Tasman flights into Rotorua.
So where else has the runway length (and PCN strength) for a 738 service ?
Why Invercargill ?
It's not rocket science. Two years ago in email conversations with the manager of Queenstown airport about the possibility of scheduling a Beech 1900 service there, he made comment that they were imminently expecting a 738 service.
Obviously the IFR minimas at ZQN made it unattractive. Air NZ has a GPS letdown system developed for it's A320s and sail into there from Rotorua when Qantas have to divert.
What's the nearest alternative to Queenstown ?
Invercargill, where the runway is now extended to 2,200m.
So let me amplify the question which I think you've asked...
Is there the traffic to justify IVC ?
PS
If the Embraers are used in NZ why would they hub at all ?
Bypassing the hubs is a superior option. Less cycles = less maintenance.