Lower airfares to US coming

Cheaper flights to LA are on the cards for those willing to fly via Sydney. Photo / Martin Sykes

Keen on a cheap airfare to the West Coast of the US?

Well, as long as you don't mind the inconvenience of a slight detour via Sydney, low price fares could soon be coming your way.

Partners in a new code share arrangement say the deal will provide flights between New Zealand and the United States with fares "up to 40 per cent" less than those paid now.

Virgin Blue's new international airline V Australia and Dubai-based Emirates, yesterday announced their first code share partnership. It will be effective from October 25 on the trans-Tasman route.

The arrangement will apply to flights between Auckland or Christchurch and Los Angeles, with stop-overs in Sydney.

- NZPA