TEXT-Air New Zealand to raise fares on higher fuel costs

(The following statement was released by the company)

WELLINGTON, July 3 - Air New Zealand airfares across many routes will increase from 17 July in response to continued high jet fuel prices.

Airfares sold in New Zealand for Tasman and domestic flights will rise by an average 3% while fares to North America, Asia and United Kingdom will rise by an average 5%.

"Air New Zealand regrets having to lift fares," said Air New Zealand Deputy CEO Norm Thompson.

"However with jet fuel now above US$170 a barrel we cannot continue to absorb the significantly higher cost of fuel, of which this increase will only partially recover."

The increases apply for tickets purchased from 17 July.