A low-cost flight experience that's surprisingly high on comfort

Excited schoolchildren in traditional dress launch into the haka, while a representative from seemingly every tourist attraction mills about. I meet Julia from Zealong Tea - NZ's only commercial tea estate, and spot Middle-earthers handing out Hobbiton mugs (Hamilton, on the North Island, is 45 minutes from the Hobbiton Movie Set). JQ165 operates four times a week, departing at the not-quite-decent hour of 6.15am.

CHECKING IN: There are barely any customers at check-in, and plenty of staff, so I am helped quickly. The agent is efficient and friendly, which feels like a big effort at this hour, so I'm appreciative. The whole process takes minutes and I join the security queue just past 4am. Basic fare allows 7kg of carry-on. You need to upgrade to get checked baggage of 20kg, or pay $34 extra. Seat selection starts at $8.

THE FLIGHT: Three hours flying is a piece of cake for anyone used to long-haul. I'm next to two mayors from Waikato-Hamilton district, so I press them for must-sees and insider knowledge. They tell me about some of the airport's history and how it has undergone a $7million upgrade over six months to service international flights again. Before I know it, we've landed and are welcomed in the airport lounge with much fanfare.

THE CLASS: It's economy only on the Airbus 320ceo and 320neo, both used on this route, with quieter and more fuel-efficient engines. Overhead lockers are 40 per cent larger, and there are in-seat power sockets and seat-back device holders. The seat configuration is 3-3. The ergonomic seat (46.3cm wide) is comfortable, and there's enough leg room for my 180cm frame, with a 71.1cm pitch and recline of 7.6cm. It's cosy but not cramped.

FOOD AND DRINK: Meals are not included, but you can order ahead online or in the air. It's the usual fare - soft drinks, booze and hot beverages, light meals like toasties, pies and noodle bowls, plus sweet and savoury snacks.

ENTERTAINMENT: Passengers can access in-flight entertainment on their own gadgets. After popping your device into flight mode and connecting to the Wi-Fi, a QR code takes you to Jetstar TV options. Access is $7, and the service includes TV shows, podcasts and movies.

THE SERVICE: The service was polite and friendly, but not overly attentive. Had I not ordered a cold drink, I don't know that I'd have had much interaction with the staff save boarding and disembarking. I've no complaints, though.

IN A NUTSHELL: The flight is no frills, and you'll pay for any add-ons, but the new aircraft means it doesn't feel like you're slumming. It's an international flight in less time than it takes to get to Perth from Sydney, and the affordable price tag makes it even more attractive.

The writer flew courtesy of Jetstar