Christchurch Airport has opened a new transport hub for buses, making it easier to get to and from the airport following the travel disruption caused by the recent earthquakes.

New regional bus and shuttle services will now connect directly with the airport, including routes between Christchurch and Queenstown.

Matthew Day, commercial development manager at the airport, said: "We wanted to simplify the travel process for people coming in and out of Christchurch following the disruption of the earthquakes.

"This is great news for all travellers, as it means you can take a bus service straight to the airport to connect with a flight or with another bus route in the South Island or to meet friends and family in Christchurch."

The airport began discussions with other transport providers following the earthquakes, when it became clear that there was no longer a central point in the city where travellers could be collected and dropped off.

Regional bus and shuttle services now connecting to the airport include Newmans Coachlines and GreatSights, which presently have routes from Christchurch to Queenstown.

The existing shuttle and bus services from Christchurch Airport include Knight Rider, the West Coast shuttle, and Budget Shuttles.

Future routes from Christchurch Airport to Dunedin and Picton, and all points in between, are also under consideration.

Sam Peate, general manager of InterCity Group Coaching, which operates the Newmans and GreatSights services, said: "This makes travel for our passengers simpler and clearer.

"Christchurch Airport is already a transport hub well-serviced by buses, shuttles and taxis, and with good car parking options, so this is a natural fit."