Because the RNZAF will still get plenty of use out of them and AirNZ has enough on their plate so are likely very unwilling to committing resources to what is after all a seasonal, part-time operation.
True but they still don't contribute to our defence when we are missing so many capabilities and the government flight is an option. AirNZ would do it if it was proffitable just as the service RNZAF aircraft for a proffit and have done so for decades. To me the oversized roundel speaks of ego being involved.
Something like the Kawasaki C2 would be more useful, can carry cargo and is reputed to have low levels of noise in the cabin similar to an airliner, so palletised seating could be used. the down side is that the PM arriving on an official in a C2 visit does not look as good..
