air nz does not have a large war chest. and in any case its for war. not for propping up routes that dont pay; they only erode the war chest.
funny how its our "national carrier" sometimes and yet theres never any shortage of takers for jetstars $39 fares.
nz first? you get what you vote for there, son.
air nz is just like any other listed company. its obligation is to its shareholders. it is not a "charitable" organisation.
air nz tried really hard with execs visiting the regions, talking to business leaders etc about viability and "use it or lose it" etc. seems in some cases it hasnt worked.
and as scion notes, there will be an another operator along soon to give it a go. its not all bad.