The Taupō Mayor says he'd be surprised if Air New Zealand cut its popular regional route.  

Some regional flights could be on the chopping block after the airline posted a $40 million half-year loss. 

It's pointed to ongoing fleet constraints, a slower recovery in domestic demand, and persistently high aviation system inflation.  

Mayor John Funnell told Ryan Bridge he understands costs are rising, but the Taupō to Auckland flights are close to full every time. 

He says they have a good relationship with Air New Zealand and isn't expecting any changes.  

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