Journeying South over Aotearoa

The day began in fine style with the arrival of Spirit’s flight attendant, Nancy Wagteveld, dressed in a beautifully themed 1960s uniform that perfectly matched Spirit’s livery. She looked magnificent and added a great deal of class to the occasion.

It was also great to have Connell back flying with us. He especially enjoyed the approach into Taupō Airport, where he began his flying training some time ago.

A large anticyclonic high sat over the whole of New Zealand today, providing idyllic conditions for a low-level Visual Flight Rules trip from Auckland to Christchurch. The plan was to overfly as much as possible: major towns en route, or close enough to route, along with a beloved family farm and scenic attractions such as Hobbiton, Lake Taupō, the Desert Road, the Queen Charlotte Sounds, and the Kaikōura coastline.

It must be said that New Zealand’s Air Traffic Control units were outstanding, with Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch all helping us fly over as many people on the ground as possible and present the aircraft in the best possible way. We felt very welcome and greatly appreciated their flexibility as they allowed this historic aircraft — which has itself played no small part in New Zealand aviation history — to travel south in such memorable fashion.

New Zealand scenery is among the best in the world, and few places can compete with the sheer variety of beauty found within the country. To fly over it in such a classic aircraft, with the air so smooth and the views and natural colours so vivid, had Gregory and Anouck burning through nearly twice the filming of our other trips of similar duration. Everyone felt deeply grateful to be part of such a wonderful experience. It really was perfect.

Also perfect was the arrival into Christchurch, where so many family and friends were waiting, and where a wonderful time was had afterwards. Thank you all so much for your support — it really means a great deal. Special mention must go to Dame Adrienne Stewart, who is always the life of the party and makes everyone she meets feel valued and important. It was so very good to have her on board.

Christchurch marks the end of Sector 3, and the current crew of Nige, Curt, Tyler, Connell, Gregory, Anouck, and Craig are now returning to other commitments for a time. Maestro Paul Bazeley will take command of Spirit once more, travelling to and appearing at the Wanaka Airshow over Easter, assisted by Morgan Price as co-pilot.