The Commerce Commission has granted a six week extension for all parties to make submissions on its Air New Zealand Limited and Qantas Airways Limited draft determinations and has extended the process to allow for cross submissions. The extension means that the Commission expects to make its final determination in September 2003.

The Commission released its draft determinations on 10 April, and the original closing date for submissions was 9 May. At the request of the parties, the Commission has agreed to an extension that will now see submissions close on 20 June. In addition, the Commission has built in a further four weeks for cross submissions so that interested parties have adequate time to respond to the applicants' submissions.

Director of Business Competition Geoff Thorn said the Commission recognises that the draft determinations require a substantive response from the applicants.

"It is also important that third parties have time to consider submissions put forward by Qantas and Air New Zealand, and have the opportunity to make cross submissions. The extended process also provides time for the Commission to test any new information that may be submitted."

Revised Timetable

Action Date

Draft determinations released - Thursday 10 April 2003

Submissions due on draft determinations - Friday 20 June 2003

Cross submissions - Friday 18 July 2003

Commission Conference - Monday 18 - Friday 22 August 2003 inclusive

Final determinations published - By 30 September 2003

Media contact:

Fritha Mackay, Manager, Market Structure Group

Phone work (04) 924 3650

Jackie Maitland, Communications Manager

Phone work (04) 924 3708, mobile 029 924 3708