not sure in NZ pulling out of NTL in 2003 was because Freedom was being closed down. Loads were good apparently, but who knows what the yields were like.
Freedom Air (SJ) wasn't closed down until 2008, in fact it wasn't closed down more its back end was re-named to Zeal 320 Ltd who became the A320 operator for NZ. Which today still forms the back of an NZ's Intl A320 services, effectiviely giving them an near LCC cost base.
The Tasman has grown allot in the past 13 years,
NZ fly seasonally AKL/MCY (twice a week in winter I think). MCY/BNE is a lot closer & quciker to drive than NTL/SYD. Must be a major PITA for anyone from NTL area, wanting to fly internationally. They either must fly to BNE or MEL 1st or make the long trek to SYD.
AKL-MCY operates for the majority of the year now and can be upto 4-5 weekly at peak. Every year NZ is growing the service, with the goal to be weekly year round.