Air Chats A I R C H AT H A M S I N F L I G H T M AG A Z I N E
Spring 2021 // ISSUE 09
C H AT H A M I S LA N D S
KĀ P I T I COA S T
Your complimentary copy
W H A KATĀ N E
WHANGANUI
N O R F O L K I S LA N D
A U C K LA N D
Whanganui is known as the River City, but did you know that Whanganui is also home to several stunning beaches? Discover rugged South Beach just a stone’s throw from the airport, explore the iconic driftwood mecca of Castlecliff Beach or venture out to rustically beautiful Kai Iwi Beach to the north. Our characteristic black sand coastal playgrounds are ideal for swimmers, surfers, and our north mole structure at Castlecliff is an ideal place to throw in a fishing line and maybe even catch a glimpse of a sunbathing seal! On a clear day Mt Taranaki can be seen and you’ll even see hints of the South Island on the horizon over Cook Strait. Like all west coast beaches Castlecliff is the perfect place to catch dramatic sunsets and there’s lots to discover in this up and coming beachside community with galleries, the Citadel café, playgrounds and the skatepark. When it comes to Whanganui real estate, let the Bayleys team help you on your property journey. Call us today.
06 348 0573 ALTOGETHER LOCAL
Bayleys Whanganui 158 Wicksteed Street BARTLEY REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Kia Ora Koutou Warmer weather is upon us and with that we are excited about another bumper season connecting Kiwis (and Wekas - as Chatham Islanders prefer to be known!) around our regional routes. Our team were thrilled to hear that the Chatham Islands Airport ‘Longer and Stronger’ project has been approved for funding by government. An extended runway and critical airport upgrades included in that funding package will immediately improve our ability to provide services, whilst future-proofing the Chatham Islands for expansion as markets are developed to support that growth. With this critical infrastructure upgrade complete, our island and its industry can have confidence that our airline will support their growth. A huge congratulation to the island entities that banded together to make this possible. Whilst it has suffered a few setbacks as a result of the pandemic, our Norfolk Island direct link from Auckland is high on our priority list. It’s great to see key wholesalers back in the market and offering amazing packages from New Zealand to experience this island paradise. With such a rich history and focus on tourism, there is no better place to spend time getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sub-tropical beaches, amazing locally sourced cuisine, and a diverse range of on-island tours to suit all generations await you. We fly to Norfolk weekly on Mondays and Thursdays direct from Auckland International Airport.
On the home front, it is an emotional time for our family airline as we bid farewell to our beloved Convair aircraft. These incredible workhorses have served our airline and the people of the Chatham Islands for 25 years. It was very special to have a water cannon salute on the very last scheduled flight departing Wellington in July, and these beautiful machines thoroughly deserve a well earned rest as they enter retirement and we source a worthy home for them to continue to be enjoyed on display over many more years. Our Heartland rugby teams have kickstarted their campaigns and Air Chathams is proud to be a principle sponsor of Whanganui Rugby Union and Horowhenua/Kāpiti Rugby Football Union. And even more excited about flying both teams to every away game this season. Our team will be on the sidelines cheering them on too! I hope you enjoy this issue of Air Chats inflight magazine, and our family and team thank you for your continued support. Ka kite anō and safe travels! Duane Emeny, Chief Operating Officer Air Chathams A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
01
Each year Air Chathams carries more than 140,000 passengers around New Zealand, and in each edition of our inflight magazine Air Chats we celebrate the very best of the regions we cover: from art and culture, to business, history and lifestyle, Air Chats tells the stories of the people who make those places great. If you’d like to be a part of Air Chats, get in touch - the team would love to hear from you.
marketing@airchathams.co.nz airchathams.co.nz
Contents AIR CHATS
SPRING/SEPTEMBER/2021
fb.com/airchathams
Publisher Plenty Limited - airchats@plenty.co.nz Editor/Kaiwhakatika Tuhinga Andy Taylor - info@plenty.co.nz Design & Production/Kaiwhakatauira Sarah Lane - design@plenty.co.nz Advertising Enquiries airchats@plenty.co.nz +64 (0)27 932 5515 Cover image Durie Hill War Memorial Tower
Air Chats is published by Plenty Limited on behalf of Air Chathams Limited. Copyright 2021 by Plenty Limited. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without the prior consent of the publisher. Advertising statements and editorial opinions expressed in Air Chats do not necessarily reflect the views of Plenty Limited or Air Chathams Limited. ISSN 2624-4179 (print), ISSN 2624-4861 (digital).
22
30
38
04 08 12 16
22
UP FOR THE CHALLENGE
GO WEST
26
UNIQUELY NORFOLK
BACK TO THE FUTURE
30
GET AWAY TO IT ALL
34
SAFETY FIRST
38
OUR FLEET
40
DESTINATIONS
EVENTS/NEWS The airline that brings New Zealand together.
FISHERMAN’S BLUES
Ajay Peni is wowing audiences in Aussie - it’s time you heard him too.
Go for the art and stay for the weekend on the Kāpiti Coast.
Bask in the past with Whanganui Heritage Month.
08
Kick off summer in Whakatāne with some great scenery and a serious challenge.
An island full of surprises, that should be on your bucket list.
Wineries, craft beer, a great market and more - it’s all in Kumeu.
It’s safety first as we bring our maintenance testing schedule in house at Air Chathams. From single engine light aircraft to our turbo-prop planes, we’ve something for every occasion. Air Chathams is New Zealand’s largest privately owned airline, flying to some of New Zealand’s best regional destinations.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
03
AUCKLAND WHANGANUI
Events
The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Whanganui Opera House Friday, 17 September – Saturday, 25 September Tickets: Royal Whanganui Opera House Booking Office AMDRAM Theatre brings you Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera - The longest-running musical in Broadway history.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s mesmerising score brings this tragic love story to life, and Air Chathams is proud to sponsor this event which is part of the Whanganui Heritage Month. A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Saturday, 30 – Sunday, 31 October Aotea Square & Queen Street, Auckland Experience and celebrate traditional and contemporary Indian culture at this hugely popular and free, family friendly festival featuring bright lights, energetic dance performances, Indian delicacies and a spectacular fireworks display on the Sunday night.
������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
Based on the classic novel by Gaston Leroux, The Phantom of the Opera tells the story of a masked figure who lurks in the catacombs beneath the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it before falling in love with an innocent young soprano and devoting himself to creating a new star by employing all of the devious methods at his command.
04
Auckland Diwali Festival 2021
Whanganui Literary Festival Friday, 8 - Sunday, 10 October www.writersfest.co.nz The Whanganui Literary Festival, a biennial weekend event for readers, writers and lovers of literature, sees nine different authors visiting Whanganui over the weekend of 8 - 10 October to share and celebrate literature and the world of words. This is a wonderful boutique style event that is well supported by the community and well worth a visit; check out their website - www. writersfest.co.nz - for all the details or find the festival on Facebook at WhanganuiLiteraryFestival.
Sunday, 14 November, Whakatāne www.wahc.co.nz One of Whakatāne’s iconic annual events is a multi-terrain 18km loop on the beautiful coastal Ngā Tapuwae o Toi track, organised by the Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club. Toi’s Challenge 18km course follows the ‘Ngā Tapuwai o Toi’ track, named after the Māori chief Toi who ruled the area some 800 years ago. The trail twists up and down steep coastal hills and along two beautiful beaches, through stunning bush, up and down hundreds of steps, eased by stunning views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean and distant islands. A real challenge - and a real beauty to behold.
KĀPITI COAST
NORFOLK ISLAND
WHAKATĀNE
Julians Berry Farm and Cafe Toi’s Challenge
Taste of Norfolk Island Food Festival Monday, 22 November – Thursday, 25 November TASTE Norfolk Island Food festival is an annual event showcasing the best of talented local chefs, cooks, eateries, artisans and primary producers in a host of stunning settings. The festival includes Thanksgiving Day celebrations.
Kāpiti Food Fair Saturday, 4 December Mazengarb Reserve, Paraparaumu www.kapitifoodfair.co.nz The Kāpiti Food Fair is an iconic annual food and beverage event well known to vendors and visitors alike. Descend on Mazengarb Reserve in Paraparaumu for a day filled with the very best in local produce and vendors, locally manufactured food and beverages and a free kid’s zone. Over 250 vendors will have a range of packaged produce and ready to eat delights alongside roving entertainers and performers.
Image Credit: Captured By Friday Photography A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
05
YEARS CONVAIR
News Green light for lengthening and strengthening Chatham Islands (Tuuta) Airport runway The much anticipated upgrade to the Chatham Islands (Tuuta) Airport runway has been approved by the government. The runway will be extended at the western end from 1360m to 1850m, and strengthening will allow up to 30 departures per month. The airport project is part of a wider Chatham Islands Investment Strategy designed to support sustainable growth on the islands, and Air Chathams Chief Operating Officer Duane Emeny says it is great to see it become a reality. “We’ve been working towards the airport upgrade for many years now, and although the process has had its ups and downs, I think that it has also helped to unite the community with a common goal. This funding comes at a crucial time and it will open up a lot of opportunities as well as future proofing the transport infrastructure of the Chatham Islands.”
06
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Farewell to a friend All good things must come to an end, and sadly that extends to our trusted Convair 580, an aircraft that has played an important role in our airline - and in the lives of many Chatham Islanders and Kiwis in general. We’ve been flying the big Convair turboprops affectionately known as the ‘muscle cars’ of our skies - on vital passenger and freight services from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch to the Chatham Island group for the past 25 years, and in that time the aircraft has contributed considerably to the local economy, with the delivery of live crayfish and fish to mainland and export markets as well as bringing tourism to the islands. Air Chathams owner and CEO Craig Emeny says the Convair was ideal for this role, offering a great payload and range, as well as speed and performance that allowed it to take off from the Chathams shorter runway with a full load. “The Convair means a lot to me and to us all at Air Chathams, but also to the Chatham Islands as a whole,” Mr Emeny says. “It enabled the Chatham Islands to do so much, particularly through developing the fishing industry and also growing the Islands’ tourism.” Aviation technology has moved on considerably however, and so it’s time for our Convair ZK-CIB to take a much needed retirement. We have so many memories of this great aircraft and we’re sure that many of you do too - if you’d like to share reminiscences or photos of the Convair head on over to our website, we’d love to hear from you!
Air Chathams flies pink! If you’re flying with us in October you may notice something a little different about our pilots and flight attendants: as part of the Pinktober breast cancer campaign they will all be sporting pink epaulettes and scarves instead of our usual green livery. It’s a great cause and commercial manager Adrian Ali says this is the fifth year Air Chathams crew have donned pink and helped raise awareness and funds. “It’s great to be able to take our support to the skies,” Adrian says, “and we are now a listed supporter with Flypink.net, joining other airlines in this really important cause. We will also be offering passengers the chance to make a donation where all proceeds go to Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand. Arnott’s, who supply our inflight Timtams, have also come to the party with some special strawberry flavoured treats, which is fantastic.
Domestic tourism key driver for economic growth in Whakatāne District Domestic tourism is one of the key contributors to the Whakatāne District, being one of the fastest growing local economies in New Zealand, according to Infometrics’ quarterly monitor released recently. Up 3.2% across all sectors on the same period last year, Whakatāne’s economic growth was helped significantly by tourism expenditure growing 3.8% for the first quarter of 2021, with $3million more spent during the period compared to 2020. MarketView visitor spend supplied to Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) also shows the Whakatāne District towards the top of the field for annual domestic visitor spend. For the year-end March 2021, the Whakatāne District achieved 6.6% growth, placing Whakatāne third out of 36 regions in New Zealand for annual visitor spend growth.
According to Mayor Judy Turner, the Whakatāne District has shown remarkable resilience and confidence is high after the challenges of the past eighteen months. “More people are visiting and moving to the Sunshine Capital of New Zealand,” she says. “As a result of the confidence felt across
the region, economic activity is significantly outpacing the rest of the Bay of Plenty, and this is particularly evident in the District’s tourism sector where annual visitor spend has increased ahead of expectations and is one of the strongest growth rates in New Zealand.”
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
07
CHATHAM ISLANDS
Fisher man’s
With a fisherman father and a brother with ‘salt in his bones’, it might have been expected that the Chatham Islands’ Ajay Peni would follow the family down to the sea in ships; but Ajay has stories to tell and a guitar to help him tell them, so for the last few years he’s strode a stage instead of a deck or a dock. And despite being an established musician across the Tasman, already paying his dues as a working musician, there’s a distinct feeling that he’s only just begun.
Auckland
Wellington Christchurch
CHATHAM ISLANDS
44°02′S 176°26′W 08
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
B
ORN AND BRED ON THE CHATHAMS, Ajay has called Perth home for the last 12 years and has slotted right into the local music scene, gigging regularly up to six nights a week across the city. But over the phone in a COVID-induced separation from home, there’s no mistaking that he’s remained true to his Kiwi roots, with that voice so familiar to any of his followers, laid back and friendly, filled with easy going Kiwi-isms - ‘Chathamese’ as the Island locals call it. This guy was born to be up on stage. “I always loved music, from a young age,” he says, “and a lot of my uncles were amazing guitar players and singers, and all self taught. And when I left the Island and went to high school in Christchurch I had an awesome design and photography teacher - Ms Price - who was a really great teacher and a big influence. But I definitely think music is integral to the Chathams, not just playing it but even the essence of how music can create a whole feeling and energy that sticks in your memory. The good honest feel of music really resonates with the honest island way.”
The most enduring influence on his music is undoubtedly his home though. “Yeah bro, it’s what I try and capture in the music, the Island and the rawness and wildness, the incredible characters and the landscapes – it’s the wild south east not the wild, wild west! When you grow up on the island you have to be self sufficient and it gives you a whole different way of seeing things. I sort of call what I do ‘fisherman’s blues’ and just try and paint pictures in my head, like going out on a misty morning when the sky has that real dark blue hue. But it’s not all blues, there’s a lot of influences in my music. There are not too many people carving the same path as me at present from home, but the biggest thing I hope to do is inspire in some way, not just music but art.”
A family trip to Australia lead to a relocation over the ditch, but it also kicked off a new chapter for Ajay. “I was doing a few things - I kinda changed jobs like undies really until I found music! - then I was playing the guitar in the garage a lot and that led to doing covers at gigs. Perth’s a really kind place for musicians, and in general, and I’ve got a niche here. There’s a real boho, gypsy vibe here and though my style is a bit rawer it chimes over here.”
Ajay has released music under the moniker of both Black Robin and 44 Degreez - a hat-tip to home as the Chatham Islands are on latitude 44° South - and can be found on your music streaming platform of choice. But these days he’s got his eye on something much bigger than daytime radio stardom, something very few musicians could even dream about.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
09
“Music is integral to the Chathams, not just playing it but even the essence of how music can create a whole feeling and energy that sticks in your memory.”
“I’ve shifted past the idea of trying to write a hit, I just write and release music for myself now, but also for the Island, and all the islanders… my people. I’m also native Moriori and there is a language rejuvenation programme underway through Hokotehi Marae and also Otago University that I’m very blessed to be involved in. I’m composing music and melodies to sacred old rongo, which are the old prayers and songs of my ancestors. I’ve worked on seven already with Paora Pohatu, and this time around I’ve done 16 and stripped it back to Chatham Islands landscape recordings from the Tawera Productions boys and myself and also Alistair Fraser using taonga pūoro (traditional instrumentation), also from Rekohu. That took about a year to complete and it’s a completely different vein of writing to what I’m used to!” Recreating cultural treasures handed down through generations; no pressure then? “Yeah bro! I used to feel that, a lot of pressure! But that sorta vanished, because it’s a completely different way of writing and composing - there’s no ego involved, there’s no pushing, you just have to let it come and trust that is the right way that they are supposed to be sung.” By the time you read this, those rongo should be ‘into the wild’ and available, with a tentative title of Rongo Moriori, but make sure you check out Ajay’s other projects, Black Robin and 44 Degreez. But most of all remember the name Ajay Peni - because you haven’t heard the last of him, and you heard it here first.
10
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Important Information for Visitors The Islands are a place where you will enjoy many different activities. Nature, history, culture, fishing, walks and hikes, photography, art and craft, isolated beaches and bird watching. Here are a few key things Tourism Chatham Islands would like you to know before you arrive.
Respecting the Local Kai Moana Resource The Chatham Islands are renowned for their abundant seafood. Help us preserve this valuable resource by taking only what you need for a meal and purchase fish to take home from the local factories. Please leave the paua beds for the locals. They are an important local food source and resource that we don’t want to see depleted. You can enjoy lots of quality Chatham Islands seafood on the menus here on the islands.
Private Land Access and Signage Unlike mainland New Zealand, most of the island, including the beaches, is privately owned land. Most attractions are on private land and access to them requires permission and payment of an entry fee. This must be prearranged and your host will be able to assist. Visitors are asked not to venture onto any private land without permission.
Natural and Archaeological Taonga The Chatham Islands are rich in flora and fauna, geological and archaeological treasures – for example native birds, fossils (including shark teeth), and sites related to Moriori settlement, all of which are protected by law. These also hold special value to Islanders. Please respect these by not removing any items you find.
Water Conservation Water is often in short supply and restrictions are put in place, particularly in summer. Please help us to conserve it when showering, flushing etc.
KĀPITI COAST
Artist, Bee Doughty-Pratt. Detail.
Go West ‘Come for the art stay for the weekend’ - that’s the call from the Kāpiti Coast and we couldn’t agree more. And we also couldn’t think of a better time to pay their piece of paradise a visit than when the Kāpiti Arts Trail celebrates 21 years of bringing art to us all in November this year.
12
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Tucked in between the Tararua Ranges in the east and 40 km of coastline on the west is the Kāpiti Coast, a nature lovers’ haven with great beaches, a world-class marine reserve, and extensive tracks and trails for walking, cycling and horse riding. But over the weekends of 6-7 and 13-14 November 2021, the Coast draws visitors for a very different reason: the Kāpiti Arts Trail is a free annual event that sees artists across the district open their studio doors to give art lovers and the art curious alike a glimpse into their creative worlds. The premise is simple. The tour is selfguided via a comprehensive map of participating artists who invite people in to see not only the works they have available to purchase but also the magic that goes into creating each unique piece. This year, the 21st year of the Kāpiti Arts Trail, sees a number of new artists as well as many returning creators in a combination of both the relatively unknown and globally recognised names. It’s a simple concept, but the chance to step inside the creative spaces of so many diverse and talented people is pretty special - and not to be missed.
A free annual event that sees artists across the district open their studio doors
Relax Unwind Indulge Atahuri awaits
As Arts Trail spokesperson Rosie Salas says, there really is something for everyone. “Every year, I get really excited to see more and more wonderful artists opening their studios to visitors with such a diverse range of art mediums, and this year is no exception.” “In fact this year’s Trail is set to be brighter than ever, with new art hubs, galleries, and artists in studios joining the Trail. We’ve got many of our regular fabulous artists returning - jewellers, ceramic artists, painters, and sculptors, and those working in fascinating art forms such as mixed media, tattoo, and mosaic. We’re so lucky that Kāpiti is such a drawcard for artists, with some amazing new creatives moving here recently. They bring with them some fresh art forms, like Hamish Macaulay, a fabulous printmaker recently returned from London, Rose Lawson who makes terrarium sculptures, Morag Stokes who does amazing paintings with unusual materials, and Selwyn Palmer, who is well-known for his indigenous carving and tapa art from the Solomon Islands.
Kapiti’s hidden secret — Atahuri offering luxurious boutique accommodation
atahuri.co.nz Artist, Hamish Macaulay A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
13
The Kāpiti Coast has always attracted creativity, but in recent years it has cast its spell over a whole new demographic as Kiwis from around the country discover its charms. And hitting the Coast for an Arts Trail Weekend is the perfect way to see what all the buzz is about.
Artist, Jennifer Turnbull
Along with our well-established galleries – Toi Matarau, Artel, Tote Modern, Old Court, Kāpiti Gallery, and Big Mac Slabs Creative Centre – we’re especially pleased to welcome two new galleries on board. Toi Tangata Studio Gallery in Ōtaki specialises in indigenous art forms including tā moko from Aotearoa and other nations, and Summerstone Gallery, directed by well-known ceramicists Mike and Judy Page, opens soon in Kāpiti Road. Also, It’s great to welcome back some very well-known artists who have been away for a while – including glass artist Graeme Hitchcock and painter Bee Doughty-Pratt.”
It’s a simple concept, but the chance to step inside the creative spaces of so many diverse and talented people is pretty special
“I also love to see the newer, emerging artists who are in the Trail for the first or second year, often as part of a hub or collective,” Rosie says. “One place that’s always wonderful to visit is Kāpiti Youth Support, where younger artists with amazing promise are supported to exhibit their work. And I’m always intrigued by the stories behind the artworks – it gives me a whole new appreciation for what I’m viewing.”
14
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
For many it is the incredible natural environment that is - literally - right on the Kapaiti Coast’s doorstep. The rugged west coat beaches are dynamic in any weather, and there is an extensive network of tracks and trails that you can cycle, hike or horse trek along. To get a little more up close and personal with the local wildlife there are bird tours and nature reserves, the grand daddy of them all being Kāpiti Island, a tranquil bird sanctuary and one of New Zealand’s most accessible nature reserves. Access is by approved tour operators only, so you do have to plan in advance, but it makes for a great complement to the Arts Trail and is well worth it for little ones and grown ups alike. Sometimes however, having no plan is a plan in itself. Kāpiti is a haven for foodies with great cafes and restaurants, craft breweries, artisan producers, and excellent boutique shopping to be discovered around every turn. With the Arts Trail map as your guide, it’s a journey of discovery in more ways than one.
KāpitiCoastNZ .com
WHANGANUI
Whanganui meaning ‘big bay or harbour’ - was New Zealand’s fifthlargest city until 1936.
Paddle Steamer Waimarie Cruising on the scenic Whanganui River.
See our website to book a cruise on New Zealand’s only coal fired paddle steamer.
w w w. w a i m a r i e. co. n z
Available for weddings, work functions, Christmas parties, and special occasions. Contact us at 0800 STEAMER to discuss your requirements. 1a Taupo Quay, Whanganui | ph: 06 347 1863 | em: info@waimarie.co.nz
16
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
BACK TO THE
FUTURE Image credit: Mainstreet Whanganui
W
HEN KIWIS THINK OF HERITAGE, we tend to think of Waitangi or Wellington, but in fact it is Whanganui that takes the crown for having one of New Zealand’s highest concentrations of heritage buildings, still largely intact, and a rich cultural history dating back well before the arrival of Europeans. And arguably no other city in Aotearoa New Zealand brings its heritage alive like Whanganui does in the annual celebration known as Whanganui Heritage Month.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
17
And there is a lot to celebrate. With more than 40 generations of settlement by the people of Whanganui Iwi Te Ātihaunuia-Papārangi, and European settlement since 1840, Whanganui has a truly rich history. The Whanganui River catchment is regarded as a sacred area to iwi, but the river and settlements hold a special place for both Māori and European settlers alike, having been the focus for hundreds of years for the changes that have made the region what it is in 2021. The town as we know it today was established at the river mouth in 1840 and became an important trading point for the hinterland, but it also quickly developed as a tourist destination. Declared a city in 1924, Whanganui meaning ‘big bay or harbour’ - was New Zealand’s fifth-largest city until 1936, by which time it was serving a huge, fertile agricultural catchment area, producing sheep and cattle and growing barley, wheat, oats, maize, fruit and timber.
18
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
The Whanganui River catchment is regarded as a sacred area to iwi, but the river and settlements hold a special place for both Māori and European settlers alike.
The town was also welcoming visitors from around New Zealand and the world for river cruises - and on vessels like the paddle steamer Waimarie you can relive that era today, with a few modern comforts thrown in - and the thriving regional centre had grown exponentially, its growth echoing that of the country as a whole. The accompanying building boom gave us some of the country’s best heritage architecture, which is really what Heritage Month is all about.
Whanganui takes the crown for having one of New Zealand’s highest concentrations of heritage buildings.
The brainchild of the Whanganui Heritage Trust, Heritage Month aims to celebrate all this and is now in its third year. For 2021 Heritage Month is focusing on transport, with a broad range of 35 events offering something for everyone. Festivities run from September 1 to 26, with talks and tours throughout the city, tram and bus rides, boat trips and high teas bringing to life different areas of Whanganui’s rich heritage, as well as it’s enviable café culture, restaurants and shops - you really don’t have to be a history buff or vintage car lover to appreciate how the locals put on a show in Whanganui.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
19
Whanganui’s fabulous heritage architecture - and it’s lovely locals - bring Heritage Month alive.
Things kick off with a grand opening on Saturday, September 4 at the Whanganui Regional Museum, from where attendees will be led down historic Drews Avenue to see waka, river and steam boats, vintage and veteran cars, and the River Market still held on the site traditionally used by local iwi and early Europeans for trade. The Market features well over 100 stalls providing an array of local food producers in the Farmers Market section, alongside an eclectic mix of collectors of vintage and retro, makers of art and traditional crafts, plants, and delicious street food in the River Traders area. No visit to Whanganui is complete without an amble through the market and the Heritage Month opening adds a whole extra layer of festive spirit.
20
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
This year’s theme is transport, so expect some fabulous vehicles, from veteran to vintage to modern reinterpretations.
On Saturday, September 18, meanwhile, the Heritage Transport Parade gets underway in Victoria Avenue with vintage cars and fire engines, bicycles, motorcycles, horse drawn landau, gigs and wagons, and much, much more. It’s a great fun day for the whole family, bringing the past out of the confines of the pages of history books and onto the streets where it belongs. And if all that isn’t enough, the Parade is followed on the Sunday by double decker London Bus rides to the historic racecourse for a parkup exhibition of more heritage vehicles and nostalgia.
For many locals and visitors alike, however, the highlight of the festival will be performances of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera at Whanganui’s Royal Opera House. This stunning heritage building is now fully restored and the perfect backdrop to this dramatic theatrical opera that continues to enthral audiences around the world. The Heritage Month shows are from Friday 17 to Saturday, September 25 and are sure to prove popular so book your tickets now to get in on what is going to be a very memorable production by the AMDRAM production company. To find out how you can be a part of the fun go to whanganuiheritagetrust.org.nz
Think spring, think in colours!
Available in-store & online
17 Victoria Ave Whanganui, NZ (06) 262 8080
www.inkt.co.nz
Specialists in quality pens, ink & stationery
inktnz
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
21
WHAKATĀNE
Up for the
CHALLENGE Images supplied: Whakatāne District Council
22
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Breathtaking scenery, a truly challenging course, and the chance to follow in the footsteps of history - Whakatāne’s Toi’s Challenge has it all and Air Chats can get you there to be a part of it and to really kick off your spring in style.
N
ESTLED IN THE HEART OF THE EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY, Whakatāne has long been known as a classic Kiwi holiday destination. A great little town beside the sea with outstanding fishing and the unparalleled Ōhope Beach, it is also the sunshine capital of Aotearoa New Zealand, steeped in history and blessed with some remarkable walking, hiking and cycling trails. And each year one of those trails, Ngā Tapuwae o Toi, or ‘the footprints of Toi’, plays host to a unique event that takes your breath away in more ways than one. An 18 kilometre course traverses the hills between Whakatāne and Ōhope, challenging your fitness and stamina and offering up some genuinely spectacular views of native bush and the seemingly endless coast, all with bird song as a soundtrack. For something completely different to an urban half marathon on pavement or a round the bays jog, Toi’s Challenge can’t be beaten. The course - just like it says in the title - follows the footsteps of Toi, the great chieftain who founded a tribe whose descendants went on to settle much of the east coast of the North Island.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
23
According to the traditions of local iwi Ngāti Awa, Toi’s stronghold was Kaputerangi, ‘The pa of gentle breezes’, which is one of New Zealand’s most ancient pā sites having been constructed some 800 years ago. On a clear day the views from this pā site make it clear why Toi chose the location - but even when the weather is less than ideal it is a dramatic and timeless place to be, high up between the sky and the sea and looking out to Moutohorā/Whale Island in the bay. The Challenge was founded in 1992 and has grown from strength to strength ever since; within the last decade entries have risen from a hardened core of 100 to around 900 and growing, as more and more people understand the charms and tribulations of ‘Toi’s’. The Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club got the whole ball rolling back in the day, and they still
24
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
oversee the Challenge today; a dedicated team of passionate Whakatāne locals make it both a well-oiled machine and a great, friendly event filled with camaraderie and a good-on-ya Kiwi vibe. Put it this way - in addition to a medal and a warm welcome across the line from the locals, all finishers get a punnet of strawberries from sponsor Julians Berry Farm and Cafe. And of course bragging rights. And let’s be honest, if you meet the challenge and do get over the line, you deserve to brag. At 18 kilometres the course is a bit shy of a full half marathon, but it’s also way more hilly than your usual half marathon. We’re not talking Mt. Ruapehu - the maximum elevation is 183m - but the course is up and down continually, over a variety of surfaces including bush track and beach, so come prepared for a proper work out.
Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club, who has been organising Toi’s for the last ten years. “The trails through native bush are fantastic, but the views when you get up top are really spectacular, looking all along the coast and out to the islands.”
Entrants can do the whole course, or can take it on as a team and split it into sections, and you can even do a shorter six kilometre walking course. But fear not - no matter how you slice and dice it, everyone’s a winner and picks up a gong. And strawbs. “I think the attraction is the scenery and the challenge of the course,” says William Doney of the
“But I think a big part of the appeal of Toi’s Challenge is that it is still a real community event made by and for people who are pretty passionate about the Challenge. Our local radio station 1XX has been on board as a sponsor from year one, and because the course passes through a kiwi area we sponsor the local kiwi trust - so that everyone taking part is giving something back to that trust and helping to look after our kiwi; it’s that kind of event, all our local businesses come out to support us and the entrants who come here to be a part of it - and we love welcoming everyone and anyone who comes to take up the Challenge!” Toi’s Challenge is on Sunday, November 14 and you can find out more about it at whakatane.com or wahc.co.nz
2 9 TH C H A L L E N G E
8AM SUNDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 2021 WHAKATANE
ENTER ONLINE
www.wahc.co.nz/tois-challenge
Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
25
NORFOLK ISLAND
Images Norfolk Island Tourism
26
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
T
HE ON-AGAIN, OFF-AGAIN nature of overseas travel has many of us longing for the days when Kiwis can once again spread our wings and fly off to foreign lands for a week or two of taking it easy. But while most of us look to Bali and Rarotonga for a great escape, there is a Pacific paradise even closer to home that many of us overlook because of a few common misconceptions. So when you and your loved ones are planning your open-border escape, take a long look at Norfolk Island: it has surprises for even the seasoned traveller.
Norfolk Island
Auckland
First and foremost, it is just up the road. Many people think Norfolk Island lies far to the north and far out in the middle of the Pacific, but in fact it is just a two-hour flight from Auckland. That means you get to spend more time doing what you should be doing - relaxing, exploring, enjoying - and not in transit.
Many people think Norfolk Island lies far to the north and far out in the middle of the Pacific, but in fact it is just a two-hour flight from Auckland.
Secondly, many of us equate Norfolk Island with Australia’s convict past, which in turn conjures up visions of a harsh and windswept colony at the end of the earth. And while the lives of the first Europeans to settle there were certainly hard going, the Island is a veritable paradise, with blue lagoons and white sand beaches. A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
27
Norfolk Island is rightly known as something of a photographer’s paradise, with breathtaking scenery around every turn. The landscape is stunning, with a vividness of colour in the pine and rainforests that we don’t see in Aotearoa New Zealand, and the sunrises and sunsets are particularly spectacular, so start honing up your photography skills now. Getting around all this remarkable scenery is easy - the island has a footprint of just 35 square kilometres after all - as there are many tracks and trails are perfect for gentle strolls of more serious hikes. A popular favourite and great starting point is the Bridal Track on the North coast, which starts from the grassy slope where Captain James Cook first landed and meanders up and around the coastline through pine and white oak with fantastic views of the smaller outlying islets.
28
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
There are guide maps available, so you can plan the length and focus of your journey, whether it be the unique flora and birdlife of the island or that amazing landscape, from the pristine lagoon of Emily Bay that is protected by a coral reef and is great for swimming and snorkelling or the moonscape of the uninhabited Phillip Island just offshore. And if all this walking sounds like too much hard work for a holiday, then hire a Mini Moke and do a grand tour on wheels.
But an even better way to explore this culture - and any culture! - is through its food.
Perhaps the greatest misconception about Norfolk Island however, is that it’s just a part of Australia. And while technically it is an external territory of Australia, the reality is that it has a culture that is unique and very different to the Great Southern Land.
For a start it has its own language. Norfuk, though it is increasingly known as Norfolk, is a blend of 18th-century English and Tahitian, originally introduced by Pitkern-speaking settlers from the Pitcairn Islands. And it also has its own culture; those same linguistic influences brought from Tahiti, Europe and Pitcairn have created something very special and well worth exploring through the various heritage sites dotted across Norfolk. Kingston is a World Heritage listed site and a great place to start, with intriguing layers of settlement to be explored from the convicts to the sealers and whalers who followed, while Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama, created by local artists Sue Draper and Tracey Yager, is a 360 degree painting depicting the story of the famous mutiny; chosen by TripAdvisor as one of Australia’s top five landmarks in 2014, it is remarkably realistic. But an even better way to explore this culture - and any culture! - is through its food. Locally grown produce with a real ‘paddock to plate’ (or in the case of the awesome local seafood ‘Pacific to plate’) approach means fresh, inseason ingredients prepared with a mixture of traditional English style melded with the tastes and ingredients of the islands. Norfolk is increasingly becoming something of a foodie destination, and if want to know why look no further than the regular Island Fish Fry held at Puppy’s Point overlooking the ocean: a selection of fresh fried fish, salads, homemade breads and desserts all served while the sun goes down, with local performers providing an accompaniment. It’s uniquely Norfolk, and it should be on your bucket list.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
29
AUCKLAND
Get away to it all It’s home to some of our bestloved vineyards, our oldest river-side tavern and a great little brewery, as well as a cracking local market and stunning scenery - but it’s not Marlborough or Blenheim, it’s Kumeu, just a hop, skip and a jump from Auckland. Here’s why you should make it your next day trip out of the City of Sails. Do something new, New Zealand, it’s the right thing to do and we live in paradise, and sometimes that something new can be just up the road. Take Kumeu, only 25 kilometres from Auckland; a short drive gets you out of the hustle and bustle of the big smoke and into rolling green farm-lands, orchards and vineyards, where things are a little more relaxed and you can slow down and smell the roses. There is also a ferry service from Auckland, which is a great way to make a day of it, and which takes you right to where any trip to Kumeu should start or finish: The Riverhead historic tavern.
30
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Hallertau brewery
For around 150 years this grand old dame has been serving food and refreshments beside the river, and the story goes that back in the day it played host to countryfolk and townspeople, fishermen and farmers, smugglers, clergymen and the local constabulary. These days it attracts lovers of fine food, with a great restaurant serving local produce on a deck surrounded by 100 year old oaks, and there is also a classic Kiwi bar serving up cold ones to boot. And if you like a cold one, then in Kumeu you’ve come to the right place. The Hallertau brewery is a craft beer lovers nirvana, with a fantastic mix of their very own beers and a menu that goes above and beyond the usual pub grub. Check out a Pale Ale or Pilsnah, or push the boat out with a Berliner Weisse Sour Ale, one of their fruit beers, or the wonderfully titled Mr Yakimoto Rice Lager this is quality beer made with passion, and they have one of the best beer gardens around to enjoy it all in.
PAUA Home Based Childcare To enquire about placing your child or to join our community of Educators
call 0800 728 277 or visit www.paua.ac.nz
PAUA Products
For an amazing selection of quality toys and resources shop at 9 Park Place, Whanganui or
www.pauaproducts.co.nz
PAUA Poppetts
Auckland’s premier Nanny recruitment and Babysitting service
call [09] 376 7774 or 0800 122 344
PAUA Print
Local printing with heart
To enquire about our full range of print and design services
call us on 0800 728 277 A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
31
The Hunting Lodge
If wine is more your speed then you’re also in for a treat, as some of New Zealand’s best-known wine makers call Kumeu home and are located in some stunning locations. European wine makers who emigrated to New Zealand last century saw the potential of Kumeu’s soil and climate, and they have been perfecting their art there ever since. The result is that there are almost too many great wineries to choose from: West Brook Winery is one of the most picturesque, with a great view right from the cellar door; Coopers Creek has a reputation for producing some classic Kiwi wines and is right in the heart of Kumeu wine county; Kumeu River Wines was established back in 1944 and rightfully deserves credit for making our Chardonnays world renowned; Babich have been a New Zealand institution for over a hundred years and set themselves apart by providing a fantastic picnic area in the winery where you can relax in addition to wine tasting; Mazuran’s have been making award winning fortified and premium wines here for generations; The Hunting Lodge has a fantastic restaurant with an outstanding menu as well as cellar door; Twin Totara is a relative new comer already making a name for itself; and last but by no means least is Souljans, established in 1937 and maker of New Zealand’s most awarded sparkling wine.
32
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
Pay a visit to your favourite for a cellar door tasting, make a meal of it at one of the vineyards with onsite eateries, or better still sign up for one of the winery tours that take in Kumeu’s finest and take out the hassle of having to get yourself around; they do all the planning, you just sit back and enjoy the ride. One thing you do want to plan around however is the Kumeu Market. Held at the Kumeu Show-grounds every third Sunday this is a great way to spend the morning, with excellent food, baking and home-made crafts, some of the top buskers in Auckland, pony rides and even a walk-in aviary! Pick up some of the great local produce to take home to add flavour to your own kitchen creations, take the easy option and forage the food stalls for taste treats, or to pick up some picnic supplies. Either way you’re winning. If all this is sounding kinda calorie intensive, rest assured Kumeu has the answer to that too. There is a treetop rope course and flying foxes to get the adrenalin going, golf, mountain biking and horse trekking courses, and outstanding walking tracks to help you work off lunch. Kumeu - just up the road, with everything going for it, just don’t be surprised if it gets a little addictive.
Spend the morning, with great food, baking and home-made crafts, some of the top buskers in Auckland, pony rides and even a walk-in aviary!
Consider us for your minor and major capital equipment needs. GP Practice Equipment Veterinary Monitoring and Radiology Chiropractor Radiology Support stock protecting your purchase Global source selected equipment
Kiwi owned and operated since 1986 Medspares Pacific 0800 990 024 sales@medspares.co.nz Paraparaumu, NZ www.medspares.co.nz A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
33
Looking after the things we love
Engineers Harry Makahununiu and Andre Jaworski at work on the Air Chathams ATR
34
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
AIR CHATHAMS
Safety First A
S A FAMILY OWNED AIRLINE Air Chathams understands the importance of looking after the things we love - you, our customers, our family of staff, our community and our fleet - and in the next few issues of Air Chats we’ll be taking a look at how we put this into action. And because it’s always been safety first for us, first up in the series we’re looking at taking care of the aircraft that we use on a daily basis to connect Kiwis all around Aotearoa New Zealand. Air Chathams has grown exponentially in the last ten years. We now fly into more locations and carry more Kiwis around the country than ever before, and our team has grown in parallel to that so that we can continue to deliver the same service our passengers have come to expect. But there is a lot more to that than making sure check-in is smooth and the beloved Timtams are onboard. With a large and growing fleet of aircraft, we have also made sure that our maintenance team has grown with us, ensuring that we can also continue to keep working on all of our own aircraft - they’re part of the family, and we like to know they’re in great hands. As part of this process Air Chathams is now certified by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to carry out the most comprehensive and important safety check procedures in the industry. Known as a Heavy Maintenance Visit (HMV), this is a detailed, state of the art look at the state of health of our aircraft, and we think there is no one better to do this than our team who work with and on our aircraft each and every day; they know them like their own, and take real pride in keeping them in tip top condition.
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
35
“A Heavy Maintenance Visit is carried out according to the age and utilisation of the aircraft,” says Brian Porter, Head of Maintenance at Air Chathams and someone with 45 years of experience in maintaining aircraft. “So essentially that means the number of hours and cycles it has been in use, though the different aircraft in our fleet have different levels of technology on board and so have different maintenance schedules. In the case of our ATR, the HMV was carried out at the 4,000 hour, two year mark and meant close inspection of the flight deck, nose section fuselage, internal midsection, and outboard wing sections, and covering avionics, wiring, hydraulics, everything.” And when Brian says close inspection, he means a very close inspection. “Basically we take the aircraft apart and put it back together,” he says. “In New Zealand we have one of the harshest environments on earth for aircraft, because nearly all our airports are located near the ocean and salt is the enemy of an aircraft as it causes corrosion. But because of that, in New Zealand we are also the best in the world at dealing with this issue. Kiwis are pretty can-do, and at Air Chathams we can remanufacture if necessary, because we’re true aircraft engineers as opposed to parts replacement people. It’s what the old guard like me were trained to do - and it’s great that at Air Chathams we are hiring new trade trainees and passing on those skills.”
36
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
In addition to the high-level skill set needed for this work, there is also a great deal of specialised tooling required - and because the Air Chathams fleet has five different aircraft types on the roster that’s quite a few tools. Each of the three Saab 340s (affectionately known as the ‘Swedish Princesses’), the ATR 72-500, our three trusty Metroliners, the ever-popular DC3, and our Cessna 206 all have different avionic systems and engine types, so while this may not be rocket science, it’s probably as close as it gets outside of the space programme.
= =
=
=
=
=
=
=
= =
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
= =
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
= =
=
= =
Subdivisions Planning and Engineering Wastewater Consents Aerial Photography and Mapping Farm Mapping We are land development consultants specialising in planning, surveying and engineering design. We’re regularly making trips to the Chathams and we put the effort in up front to make sure you get the most from your land. Consult our experts to ensure your project gets off on the right foot. Contact Andrew Ledingham Call 03 339 0401 Email andrew.l@blg.nz
Canterbury 0800 BLG 123 Marlborough 0800 BLG 123 Visit blg.co.nz
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
= =
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
These types of checks were previously carried out for Air Chathams aircraft by Air New Zealand maintenance crews, but as Adrian Ali, Air Chathams’ Commercial Manager says, the airline was keen to see this become an in-house process. “Becoming certified by the CAA was quite a stringent process,” Adrian says, “but we think it was well worth the effort. For a start it meant that we no longer have to position our aircraft to approved maintenance locations within New Zealand, and that meant cost savings, but most of all we wanted out Air Chathams team to have the opportunity to up-skill and gain the extensive experience required to carry out this work. They have a real sense of pride in making sure our aircraft are always ready to carry our passengers and crew safely around the country - and we think that sense of ownership is priceless.”
=
=
=
= = =
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
“It’s what the old guard like me were trained to do”
= =
=
=
Let’s put it this way. The HMV check on the ATR took 1883 man hours and over a quarter million dollars of materials to complete. “That was 12 guys working ten-hour days, six days a week, for four weeks,” says Brian, “and before we brought the aircraft in we spent eight weeks planning the job, because ‘prior planning prevents poor performance’! We need to know exactly what we are doing and what we are going to need - it’s not like we can pop in to Mitre 10 if we need something!”
= =
=
Let’s unlock the potential in your property =
= =
37
AIRCRAFT AIR CHATHAMS
Our fleet
Air Chathams has a fleet of 15 aircraft, ranging from single-engine light planes to turboprop passenger aircraft capable of speeds of over 500km/h. With this diverse fleet we can offer everything from scenic flights to charters, passenger services and freight.
Saab 340 Our Swedish princess Speed Max Altitude Pressurised Cabin No. of Pilots No. of Flight Attendants Inflight Catering Toilet
470 kilometres per hour 25,000 feet Yes 2 1 Available Yes
Convair 580 The fastest scheduled turbo-prop in NZ skies Speed Max Altitude Pressurised Cabin No. of Pilots No. of Flight Attendants Inflight Catering Toilet
520 kilometres per hour 25,000 feet Yes 2 1 Available Yes
Fairchild Metroliner Safe, fast, and efficient commuter aircraft Speed Max Altitude Pressurised Cabin No. of Pilots No. of Flight Attendants Inflight Catering Toilet
38
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
450 kilometres per hour 25,000 feet Yes 2 0 Limited No
ATR 72 Our newest regional airliner Speed Max Altitude Pressurised Cabin No. of Pilots No. of Flight Attendants Inflight Catering Toilet
500 kilometres per hour 25,000 feet Yes 2 2 Available Yes
Douglas DC-3 Our pride and joy. This remarkable aircraft has certainly ‘been there and done that’. Speed Max Altitude Pressurised Cabin No. of Pilots No. of Flight Attendants Inflight Catering Toilet
240 kilometres per hour 10,000 feet No 2 1 Available Yes
Cessna 206 The Chatham Islands workhorse Speed Max Altitude Pressurised Cabin No. of Pilots No. of Flight Attendants Inflight Catering Toilet
230 kilometres per hour 10,000 feet No 1 0 No No
A I R C H AT H A M S . C O . N Z // S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
39
DESTINATIONS AIR CHATHAMS
Norfolk Island
Whakatāne
Whanganui Kāpiti Coast Wellington
Chatham Islands
LY
SERVI
N RE
PRO
D
G
U
Christchurch
L
98
4.
GIONA
INCE Z S
1
Air Chathams is family owned and operated and is New Zealand’s largest privately owned airline, flying to some of the country’s best regional destinations. For 35 years we’ve been bringing New Zealand together.
Auckland
N
The airline that brings New Zealand together
The home of Air Chathams The Chatham Islands are New Zealand’s most eastern islands, located over 800 kilometres (500 miles) east of southern New Zealand. About 600 people live on the two largest islands, Chatham and Pitt, and we have officially been a part of New Zealand since 1842. The islands are volcanic in origin with diverse landscapes and a fascinating history, renowned for a bountiful seafood industry and conservation efforts protecting many rare and endangered species. Top tips before making a visit: • No passport is necessary when flying from New Zealand.
Air Chathams brings New Zealand together! We’re the country’s largest privately owned airline, flying to some of New Zealand’s best regional destinations, and our inflight magazine Air Chats is a great way to build your brand and your business. We’d love to have you on board, so get in touch to find out about advertising - and come fly with us.
airchats@plenty.co.nz
• There are no mobile phone networks on the island - bring your phone for photographs and enjoy being unconnected for a while. • Electricity is standard for New Zealand at 240 volts AC, but can be unreliable so we recommend surge protection on your devices. • Pack clothing for variable weather. Think layers and protection from the sun, wind and rain. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. • The Chatham Islands are 45 mins ahead of mainland New Zealand standard time. • There are no shuttles or taxis. Transport from the airline needs to be arranged with your accommodation as will any rental vehicle prior to your visit. • Check with your accommodation provider about any specialist needs or allergies as the Chatham Islands often have limited supplies for specific requirements. • There is a small hospital with a resident doctor and nurses available. Air Chathams always recommends travel insurance for any air travel. • With deep family connections and local heritage, many places of interest are on private land and require the owner’s permission to visit. If you are unsure, please ask first.
Fly with us
and experience what the Chatham Islands has to offer.
Discover the Chatham Islands
37
YEARS + - EST 1984 -
YOUR CHATHAM ISLANDS ADVENTURE HOLIDAY WILL BE A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY. YOU WILL TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME, TO HOW LIFE USED TO BE. Over 800 kilometres from mainland New Zealand, the Chatham Islands are an intriguing and unique part of NZs cultural, geographic and natural history. Experience stunning scenery, wildlife, cultural treasures, intriguing history, a relaxed lifestyle, delicatable seafood and a wide range of activities. Plan your Chatham Island experience at www.chathamislands.co.nz
Proudly serving regional NZ
0800 580 127
www.airchathams.co.nz 0800 580 127
