Kia ora tātou
Santa has been and gone, summer has made a brief but welcome appearance, and true to form we’ve had a few rainy days along the way. It’s been a busy and
energising few weeks right across the motu, and the momentum shows no sign of slowing.
There has been something exciting happening in every one of our mainland regional ports. From hosting popular artists such as Drax Project and Che-Fu in Whanganui over Valentine’s weekend, to the much-loved Whakatāne Wild Food Festival, where we were proud to fly in our very own celebrity chef, Kaai Silbery from the Chathams, to join the judging panel. On the Kāpiti Coast, after several years, golfers from near and far returned for the PGA Tour at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, a truly world-class experience. It’s an event we are proud to support and look forward to seeing back on the Coast year after year.
There are still a number of exciting events happening around the country that we’re proud to be part of, including the ANZAC Day Test Match, the second time we’ve partnered with the Classics team, and the Auckland Design Week charter, showcasing the UNESCO City of Design: Whanganui. Supporting events that celebrate regional talent, culture and community is something that runs through the veins of Air Chathams.
A significant milestone for our team is also fast approaching. From 24 March, our interline partnership with Air New Zealand officially takes flight. After ticket sales opened in mid-December, we’ve seen strong and encouraging uptake. A special mihi to the Whakatāne community as we launch this initiative from this mainland port, with plans to expand across our wider network. This partnership represents our continued commitment to making regional New Zealand more connected and accessible.
This time of year also marks the celebration of a very special person in Air Chathams’ story, our founder, Craig Emeny, who reached the milestone of his 70th birthday at the end of February. Many of our team came together to celebrate this occasion, while also honouring his retirement from management at the end of last year and his transition into a governance role at Air Chathams. Craig has long held the goal of stepping back at 70 to embrace retirement, and it is a goal he is now able to fulfil. Although retired from his CEO duties, Craig remains very much part of the business, continuing to serve on the Board as a director. We look forward to seeing him enjoy more time back on the Chathams with his wife, Marion, where his remarkable journey with Air Chathams first began.
As we head further into the year, I encourage you to keep exploring, to visit the places you may not have discovered yet and experience the untapped pockets of Aotearoa that we are proud to fly to.
We look forward to welcoming you on board soon.
Ka kite anō and safe travels!
Duane
Emeny, Chief Executive Officer
Each year Air Chathams carries more than 110,000 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
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Publisher Plenty Limited - airchats@plenty.co.nz
Editor/KaiwhakatikaTuhinga
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
Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, supplied by Visit Kāpiti
Air Chats is published by Plenty Limited on behalf of Air Chathams Limited. Copyright 2026 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).
04
EVENTS/NEWS
The airline that brings New Zealand together.
08
MEET THE MAYOR
Our new Chatham Island Mayor on a life less ordinary.
14
TO THE FORE
The Kāpiti Coast just might be becoming the golfing capital of the country.
20
SAFETY FIRST
Meet Patrick Lutz, the man who helps us go above and beyond in aviation safety.
26 TELLING STORIES
A new initiative is helping to bring Whanganui’s amazing history to life.
36 ŌHIWA OYSTER FARM
A long-time Bay of Plenty family favourite has a new family and a new future.
42 MARKET FORCES
Check out Auckland’s vibrant markets to really see what the city does on its day off.
14
46 OUR FLEET
From single engine light aircraft to our turbo-prop planes, we’ve something for every occasion.
48 DESTINATIONS
Air Chathams is New Zealand’s largest privately owned airline, flying to some of New Zealand’s best regional destinations.
Events & News
Flavours of Plenty Festival
2026 AON New Zealand Surf Lifesaving Championships
5 - 8 March, Ōhope Beach. Free to come and watch www.surflifesaving.org.nz/calendar/2026/march/2026-ao n-new-zealand-surf-lifesaving-championships
The 2026 AON New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships are expected to attract some 1200 athletes to a truly iconic event - and it’s returning to Ōhope Beach for the first time since 2016. From Masters who have lost track of the number of Nationals they have attended to 14 year olds experiencing the event for the first time, it caters to all levels of participation and almost all aspects of Surf Life Saving: New Zealand representatives, canoes, surf boat crews, surf swimmers, beach sprinters, ski and board paddlers all having a crack at being the next National Champion.
Whakatāne Kiwi Trust Night Walks
Regular night walks – every Friday starting 3 April at 7pm. Kids night walks – every second Thursday starting 9 April at 5:30pm more info at www.whakatanekiwi.org.nz
The Whakatāne Kiwi Trust Night Walks season runs from April to July each year, as this is the best time to hear kiwi calling. Come along and learn about the local kiwi population and the work being done by amazing volunteers to protect our national icon and other native taonga (treasures). Please be aware that it is unlikely that you will see a wild kiwi on this walk – they tend to run a mile when they hear a dozen humans coming down the path! However, kiwi calls are heard on most night walks, as well as other birds such as weka and ruru (morepork). There’s also plenty of other things to see – such as wētā, tunnel web spiders, harvestmen, peripatus, glow-in-the-dark fungi and glow worms!
16 April - 3 May. Events across the Coastal Bay of Plenty area (including Whakatāne) www.flavoursofplentyfestival.com
Celebrating the BOP’s world-class food scene and showcasing our horticultural heroes. The theme – Pushing the Palate - is all about fearless creativity, unapologetic innovation, and food experiences that challenge expectations while celebrating our region’s unique story.
Farming like Grandad
18 April, 10am to 4pm, Te Teko Racecourse. Adults $10, kids free www.whakatane.com/events/ community-events-and-markets/farming-grandad
Farming as it used to be, Clydesdale horses, sheep shearing, tractors, and farm machinery (old and new). Wagon rides, vintage cars, exhibitions by the Axe Men and chainsaw races. Craft Corner, farm animals, old-style kids’ games, food, and music and much more. Something for everyone! Due to farm animals being present please leave you dogs at home.
Ōhiwa Oyster Festival
16 May, 12pm to 7pm, Port Ōhope Wharf www.ohiwaoysterfest.com
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ōhiwa Harbour for a spectacular day of fresh seafood, live music and coastal vibes to celebrate the start of the oyster season. See the article in this issue for more!
KĀPITI COAST
Kāpiti Tattoo & Arts Festival
7 March, Paraparaumu Memorial Hall www.kapititattoofestival.co.nz
The Kāpiti Tattoo & Arts Festival returns to Paraparaumu Memorial Hall for a full day dedicated to creativity, culture, and self-expression. This one-of-a-kind event brings together more than 40 tattoo artists, visual creators, and local performers, transforming the heart of the Kāpiti Coast into a hub of inspiration and artistry. Festival-goers can watch live tattooing in action, explore stunning art exhibitions, shop from unique local makers, and join interactive workshops designed to spark creativity. The main stage will be buzzing with musicians and performers, creating the perfect soundtrack to a day packed with energy and discovery. Whether you’re passionate about tattoos, love exploring new art, or simply want to immerse yourself in an unforgettable community experience, the Kāpiti Tattoo & Arts Festival offers something for everyone.
Ōtaki Kite Festival
14 - 15 March, 10am - 4pm, Ōtaki Beach, Free www.otakipromogroup.nz/kite-festival
New Zealand’s largest kite festival returns to the Kāpiti Coast this summer and makes for a fun day out for all the family. Look to the skies and marvel at world-class kites of all shapes and sizes during the two-day festival at Ōtaki Beach. More than 25,000 people are expected to flock to the free iconic Kāpiti event in its 11th year to see everything from huge inflatable whales and dragons to artistic kites. Kites aside, enjoy live entertainment on the day, relax with a picnic, buy food from one of the many food vendors and check out the goods on offer from the stalls on site.
Kāpiti Classic
14 March, Southward Car Museum www.visitkapiti.co.nz/article-2025-3-Kāpiti-Classic
Set in the stunning outdoor amphitheatre at Southwards Car Museum, expect a day brimming with epic music, good vibes, and summer magic. Headlining the festival is none other than the iconic Dragon and the lineup also features Kiwi favourites Hello Sailor, Jordan Luck Band and Fleetwood Mac tribute band Landslide. The perfect end to summer in the most Kiwi fashion available!
Māoriland Film Festival
24 - 28 March, Maoriland hub https://mff.maorilandfilm.co.nz
The MFF is New Zealand’s premier international Indigenous Film Festival. For more than ten years it has been a unique cultural and arts event that invites New Zealanders to the Indigenous world through screen storytelling.
Ōtaki is a vibrant seaside town where Māori culture and language thrives, and Māoriland is celebrated for its manaakitanga and community spirit. It is a place where creatives come to heal - and you can come to see their work, hear their stories, and enjoy the Kāpiti Coast.
Events & News
CONTINUED
Richard Wotton: A Selective Eye, Photographs 1975-2025
On display until 3 May at Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery
This exhibition celebrates the work of photographer Richard Wotton, whose interest in the medium began in the mid-1970s. Traversing a terrain of subject matter from portraiture, interior and exterior architectural views to studies in colour and form, Wotton’s engagement with the medium is something he has fallen in and out of love with over the course of his life. However, each time he has returned after a hiatus of not having a camera to hand, his focus has seemingly changed frequency to another channel.
Whanganui Artists Open Studios
14 – 22 March https://openstudios.co.nz
As one of New Zealand’s oldest and most diverse art trails, Artists Open Studios 2026 invites you to discover a vibrant showcase of local talent. Over two weekends in March, immerse yourself in a captivating exploration of art, featuring established and emerging New Zealand artists. From traditional crafts to cutting-edge contemporary works, there’s something to ignite your passion.
Comedy Gala
28 June 7.30pm start, The Royal Whanganui Opera House www.hellocomedy.co.nz
Hello Comedy is back with a bang, bringing you an unforgettable evening at the 3rd Annual Whanganui Comedy Gala! Prepare for side-splitting laughs and a star-studded lineup featuring New Zealand’s finest comedy legends and the freshest rising stars on the scene!
Hosted by the hilarious Ben Hurley and headlined by the one and only Josh Thomson, this is one comedy show you won’t want to miss!
Featuring an incredible lineup with Wilson Dixon, Lana Walter, Kura Turuwhenua, Lazer Kiwi, Kajun Brooking, Sera Devcich, and Richie Faavesi.
AUCKLAND
Auckland Lantern Festival
26 February - 1 March, Manukau Sports Bowl www.aucklandnz.com/lantern
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival 2026! Come along and enjoy over 500 handmade lanterns, live entertainment, foods and crafts and fireworks in a free, family-friendly, smoke-free, and alcohol-free event.
Round the Bays
8 March www.roundthebays.co.nz/auckland
Join Auckland’s biggest street party with a course filled with entertainment as you move and groove and walk, jog, run or roll from Quay Street in the city to St Heliers along Tāmaki Drive. At the finish line, collect your well-deserved finisher’s medal, a cool drink and enjoy the after-party.
Round the Bays is celebrating 54 years of fun, so gather your friends, whanau or work colleagues, enjoy some vitamin sea, and get amongst a fun run like no other. Are you in?
Pasifika Festival
14 - 15 March, Western Springs Lakeside Park www.aucklandnz.com/pasifika
Kia ora, kia orana, Ia orana, ni sa bula vinaka, aloha, kam na mauri, fakaalofa lahi atu, talofa lava, malo e lelei, fakatalofa atu and hello.
Pasifika Festival returns for a celebration of all things Pacific. The iconic festival’s eight villages are set to showcase the best of the 11 Pacific Island nations with world-class traditional and contemporary performances, food and much more.
The
ANZAC
Day
ClassicNew Zealand v Australia
25 April 2026, at Stadium Taranaki
Tickets from Ticketek
Taranaki Like No Other and New Plymouth Event Venues are proud to present The ANZAC Day Classic — a blockbuster day of rugby as The Classics of New Zealand take on Classic Australia.
See some of the biggest names in rugby wind back the clock in a fast(ish), free-flowing, and highly entertaining clash packed with skill, humour, and some classic trans-Tasman rivalry. It’s a rare chance to see legends of the game back in action, reigniting old battles and reminding fans why they became household names in the first place.
Don’t miss the return of rugby’s greats for one unforgettable match — and show your support for The Classics! Home-side heroes Chris Masoe, Nehe Milner-Skudder, and Jason Eaton line up against Australian greats Radike Samo, Wycliff Palu and Andrew Walker, under the coaching guidance of legendary winger David Campese.
A great events for rugby fans of all ages and amazing corporate hospitality packages are also available – get in quick and contact npeventvenues@npdc.govt.nz
TARANAKI
Images WalterD Fotografía
Meet the Mayor
GREG HORLER MAY NOT HAVE been born on the Chatham Islands, but in his time there he has had a career that pretty much captures the entire Island experience. He’s worked in virtually every one of the Islands’ primary industries –from crayfishing to paua diving to farming to tourism – and served three terms as a councillor. It all started as a three-month stint of sheep shearing and now, 48 years later, he is Chatham Islands’ new Mayor.
“School never really worked for me,” Greg says. “I was born in Waimate, in South Canterbury, and went to a Catholic school but I was out of there before I finished the fourth form! I was a bit dyslexic, but the
Greg and Rosemarie Horler
nuns thought I was just being awkward. It was kind of expected that I’d follow in my Dad’s footsteps and become a plumber, but I’d heard too many stories from my brother about how bad that was, so instead I learned to shear sheep.”
“One of the guys I worked with spent his winters shearing overseas, and he knew I really wanted to be a farmer so he said if I wanted to make enough to buy a farm then I better get overseas where the money was. The first place I went - ‘overseas’ - was Chatham Island. I was 16 and it was supposed to be for three months before I went to Europe, but I never left. And it led to me doing a few things that I’d never, ever dreamed of - like being in the tourism industry and being in politics!”
NO PESTS PLEASE
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BEFORE arriving on The Chathams... CHECK, CLEAN AND DRY
Footwear
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Camping and sports equipment
Contamination might include seeds in your socks and clothing, marine pests on dive gear, mud on boots or ants in your backpack. Please don’t bring animals, plant material, bees or raw comb honey, unless you have contacted a Chatham Islands Biosecurity O cer for advice first.
For more information or advice please scan the QR code or contact a Chatham Islands Biosecurity O cer: Phone. 03 305 0013 info@chathamislands.govt.nz
w.cic.govt.nz
The three month shearing stint was extended when the farmer he was working for asked him to stay on through the winter mustering. More importantly, also working in the shearing gang was a sixth-generation Chatham Islander named Rosemarie - who would become Greg’s wife.
For a time they lived in the old Stone Cottage, the historic Chathams icon built by German Moravian missionaries in the 1860s, before moving to town. “That meant a mortgageand that’s why I got into crayfishing,” Greg says. “I did a season on a big boat, but I soon had a young family and I wanted to be home in the evenings so switched to a coastal boat. I did six or seven seasons all up but then got introduced to paua diving. We never had much ocean in South Canterbury - so it was all a bit new to me!”
Wellington
Chatham Islands
Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau
Christchurch
The Stone House
“When I first came here, people said it was 40 years behind the rest of mainland New Zealand, and it actually was, and that was the great thing about it. There were no telephones apart from party lines, no motorbikes, all the farm work was basically done on horseback, and I loved horses from a young age. I still do - and that’s my passion, this place, my family and horses.”
Having worked in pretty much every industry the Islands had to offer, was politics the only challenge left? “Yeah, pretty much. I mean, I just saw an opportunity to maybe make life for my children a bit better. Better for everyone’s children. The Chatham Islands is tough. It’s tough to farm, it’s tough to fish, it’s a tough place to make any kind of living. And I just thought, you know, there’s stuff I could probably do to make life a little bit easier for all of us.”
Foremost on this is what Greg sees as an imbalance in the difficulties faced by Chatham Island residents compared to mainland Kiwis. “We’re surrounded by 200 miles of really rich fishing grounds, and yet we don’t get a benefit out of it. We’re 800 kilometres off the mainland out here, we don’t have a main road, and rely on our local Enterprise Trust to get things done.”
Family time for the Horlers
Timeless solid sterling silver and gold pieces inspired by life on the mythic Chatham Islands.
“When I first came here, people said it was 40 years behind the rest of mainland New Zealand, and it actually was, and that was the great thing about it.”
“We get officials saying, yes well that applies to a lot of remote mainland communities, but those communities can drive to markets and regional centres - we can’t. And I think we have a solution. If we have access to the resources that surround us we can be much more self-sufficient, which is good for us and good for Wellington as they won’t have to be funding us. It’s a win-win.”
“Decades as a farmer and a fisherman have made Greg nothing if not a realist however. “This is not new. We’ve been saying this for years. But I think it’s a matter of finding the right person to listen, and that’s a challenge. But like I say, if you’re not up for a challenge, the Chathams may not be the best place for you!”
A must-see when visiting the Chatham Islands — discover our exclusive jewellery, available only at Dough n Go.
To explore the full collection or place an order, visit us on Facebook or Instagram, or call 021 0730 672.
chathamislandsjewellery
Awarakau Lodge - where Greg and Rosemarie welcome visitors to the Islands
To the Fore
THE KĀPITI COAST HAS BEEN a Kiwi favourite for years. A thriving arts scene, great dining and spectacular scenery make it a great holiday destination, but in recent years it has also been making a name for itself as the perfect golfing getaway. It is home to several stunning courses to choose from, each offering something a little different, so if you’re looking for a new golfing adventure look no further than the Kāpiti Coast.
“We’re blessed with four great golf courses on the Kāpiti Coast,” says Glen Mitchell, club president at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club. “We’ve got Waikanae, Ōtaki, Paraparaumu Beach and the Kāpiti Golf Club, and they’re all quite different in many ways so there is something for every golfer and also plenty to give you a bit of a challenge. And that is pretty good for a region with our population, so golf certainly seems to be in our blood.”
“The other interesting thing about our golf clubs here is that they all attract visitors from all around the country, and we also get a lot of international golfers come in. I think there has been a big surge in popularity in golf since COVID for some reason. This is not just a phenomenon that’s peculiar to the Kāpiti Coast, but we’ve got a lovely microclimate here, with really welcoming clubs - and from a tourism point of view there’s lots and lots of things to do. There’s Kāpiti Island, there’s the Kāpiti Marine Reserve, and of course Southward Car Museum, which is world-class. So there’s plenty to see and do for the non-golfers in your family!”
Each of these courses is worth a visit, but collectively they make for a unique golfing destination that makes it well worth extending your trip and experiencing all the Kāpiti Coast has to offer.
Waikanae
Set in authentic dune lands, native wetlands and meandering creeks just a few hundred metres from the Coast, the Waikanae Golf Club has hosted several national events including qualifying for the New Zealand Open. As part of a master plan created by course architect Phil Tataurangi, the Club has focused on replacing exotic trees with natives, caring for its waterways, and maintaining an active pest control programme. All this means the Club is firmly rooted in its surrounding, and boasts a beautiful 18-hole course offering an enjoyable yet challenging experience for golfers of all levels. Situated only minutes from the Waikanae exit off State Highway 1 it’s easy to get to and welcomes both casual players and new members.
www.waikanaegolfclub.co.nz
Ōtaki
Nestled in the heart of Kāpiti’s natural beauty, Ōtaki Golf Club offers a captivating and well respected 18-hole course with lush fairways and greens - and the views are pretty spectacular too. The course is very close to Ōtaki township and the club fosters a warm community spirit, with no apologies for the ‘fun’ aspect engendered in the club culture. Both members and visitors are welcome, and the Club also offers tailored programmes, coaching, and a supportive environment for junior golfers, helping to get the next generation excited about the game. And Ōtaki’s sunny climate means the pleasant, undulating course is in great condition year-roundmaking it a course for all seasons.
www.otakigolfclub.co.nz
Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club
Having played host to 12 New Zealand opens Paraparaumu Beach is regarded by many as one of the best links courses in the Southern Hemisphere. The course was designed in 1949 by former Australian Open champion - Alex Russell, a highly acclaimed course architect, and it has been described by the great Australian golfer Peter Thomson – winner of the British Open on five occasions and nine times New Zealand Open champion as “a gem of enjoyment, a monument to the game, and a gift to the future.” The world-renowned layout on the undulating dune land of the Kāpiti Coast keeps you on your toes and the stunning views never fail to impress, regardless of the weather.
www.paraparaumubeachgolfclub.co.nz
Kāpiti Golf Club
Situated just to the east of the Paraparaumu township in a picturesque valley, the Kāpiti Golf Club course is a short yet challenging nine holes and 18 playable tees that is great for beginners and the more experienced golfer alike. Like its stablemates it’s set in a rolling coastal landscape with established pines and natives - and it’s also really great value for money.
It has a great clubhouse atmosphere, with visitors and members gathering on the deck for a drink, to soak in the view, and to swap tall tales and truths of golfing greatness; as Kiwi golfing experiences go, this is a winner.
www.sporty.co.nz/kgc
Safety First
In the aviation business, safety is paramount. It means planning, training and checking, and when we want to double check our safety procedures we reach out to who we feel is the best in the business: Patrick Lutz and AEROTHRIVE.
Patrick, who hails from Germany, has been an aviation enthusiast for most of his life, making it both his professional career and private passion. He served as CEO of the Lufthansa Group’s Aviation Quality Services for ten years before taking the helm at AEROTHRIVE, while also running a video channel of some of the weird and wonderful aircraft he has flown over the years. He is now CEO of AEROTHRIVE, which can call on more than 100 air safety experts, and his airclips.com channel has clocked up more than two million views - not bad for a guy who has no family background in aviation.
“I’m not from an aviation family,” Patrick says, “but reportedly already at the age of four I was always paralysed when there was an aircraft flying above and, you know, pointing up at it. I never had the idea of becoming a pilot but thought I should become an aviation journalist, then when an aviation company started up in my hometown I started pestering them to give me a job - time after time, to the point that the manager said, ‘Okay, if you promise me that you will not enter my office for the next four weeks I will give you a job.’ This is how I got into aviation!”
Hunting new angles: Patrick on a cherry picker high above a rare Air Tindi Dash 7 quad prop in the Canadian Arctic.
His first job was basically shuttling crew around in the wee hours, but he soon moved on to producing the company’s inflight magazine. All the while though he really wanted to get into operations, and when a role in safety auditing came up he jumped at the chance - despite not really knowing what the role involved! Fortunately he loved it - and the rest as they say is history. After working his way up he jumped ship for Lufthansa and after ten years there decided to go out on his own.
AEROTHRIVE was founded in 2023, and has gone from strength to strength, quickly growing into a global flight safety-enhancing audit programme primarily focused on large aircraft commercial aviation and working with some of the world’s leading airlines.
Plane spotting on frozen Great Slave Lake: A Twin Otter on skis pictured in Yellowknife Bay, Canada at around -20 degrees Celsius.
In Palmdale, California, Patrick was invited to witness two NASA missions on a specially modified Boeing 747SP flying observatory with a huge telescope and team of scientists aboard.
Patrick was still producing content for his airclips.com site though, and it was making a video of Air Chatham’s Convair 580 back in 2021 (while still with Lufthansa) that he struck up a conversation with founder Craig Emeny. Fast forward a couple of years and when Air Chathams needed a safety audit, they felt that Patrick’s passion, dedication and can-do attitude set his new company apart. For decades, there had been little change to the aviation safety audit industry. For Air Chathams, seeing AEROTHRIVE bring a whole new dynamic, with some extremely talented team members who had decades of experience and the drive to deliver, made the company the perfect fit for the family owned airline who have always liked doing things differently.
After the audit, Patrick had a few hours to fill before his return flight to Germany - and how better to spend waiting time for a flight than by flying? Craig Emeny kindly invited Patrick for a scenic helicopter tour around Auckland.
CEO handshake: Air Chathams’ Duane Emeny and Patrick with happy faces after an intense audit week in Auckland.
“Working with the team at Air Chathams means it’s all about guaranteeing that the airline not only meets - but exceeds - the industry norms.”
“Patrick and his team brought a strong sense of reassurance to Air Chathams as we expand our operations and prepare to launch our interline partnership with Air New Zealand. Having their independent perspective and expertise reviewing our safety systems provided valuable confidence that we are well-positioned for this important next step” says Duane Emeny, Air Chathams Chief Executive Officer.
“Air Chathams have a great team,” says Patrick. “It’s not just a job for them, it’s like a family, and they take safety very seriously. What AEROTHRIVE offers is another set of eyes, an objective overview of all systems and procedures, and working with the team at Air Chathams means it’s all about guaranteeing that the airline not only meets - but exceeds - the industry norms.”
Smiles all around from the Air Chathams and AEROTHRIVE teams after completing a successful audit together.
Not every happy mission turns out to be a success: a lesson learned for Patrick after unintentionally deleting all footage of the Air Chathams Metroliner filming day in the same evening. A couple of drinks followed.
“During a SARP check audit, our team of four highly experienced aviation auditors - drawn from operational disciplines such as flight operations and maintenance - conducts an in-depth assessment of the operator’s processes and their implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
ICAO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that develops SARPs as globally applicable standards and recommendations for aviation safety and operations, which are adopted by states and transposed into national regulatory requirements applicable to airlines.”
AEROTHRIVE’s audit has been critical in allowing Air Chathams to seamlessly integrate with Air New Zealand via Interline. Starting in Whakatāne last December, Air Chathams customers can now book a single ticket for journeys that include both Air Chathams and Air New Zealand flights - which means smoother travel, checked bags transferred all the way to your final destination, and less hassle along the way.
“Working with Patrick and AEROTHRIVE has been great,” says. “The Interline agreement is a big win for regional New Zealand, helping locals stay connected for business, education, health, and time with whānau – and it opens the door for more visitors to discover everything the Eastern Bay of Plenty region has to offer. And knowing that our safety procedures are up there with the best means a lot to all of us at Air Chathams - our customers are like family and we want to take good care of them.”
“The interline agreement is a big win for regional New Zealand, helping locals stay connected for business, education, health, and time with whānau.”
Preserving classic aviation operations for future generations in high quality is Patrick’s main driver for filming. Consequently, his ride on Air Chat’s classic Convair 580 back in the days was his dream come true.
Telling Stories
Aotearoa New Zealand has a rich cultural heritage - and Kiwis love a good story - but for many years we have often ignored all but the big picture, the parts of our past where history is writ large. Now a new initiative - He ia Kōrero - is helping to address that, bringing to life the stories of tangata whenua, settlers, places, people and change in and around Whanganui.
The project - called the Te Awa Trailfeatures interpretive signs along the river bank and focusses on early inhabitation and the settlement of the town area. A mobile phone trail – Downtown Tales – takes about an hour to complete on foot and can be accessed via QR codes installed throughout the city. A printed A4 map is also available from the Whanganui isite, and pavement trail markers guide users along the way.
‘Ko au te Awa, ko te Awa ko au’‘I am the River; the River is me’
Together, they help connect people with Whanganui’s past, its people, and the environment - and it has been several years in the making.
“This project is part of a long-term vision to build richer, more meaningful visitor experiences – ones that help people understand where they are, and why it matters,” says Paul Chaplow, Strategic Lead – Visitor Industries at Whanganui District Council.
“Whether you’ve lived here forever or are visiting for the first time, these stories help bring the city to life and, more importantly, deepen people’s connection to this place.”
The project was 100 percent externally funded with the storytelling content developed under cultural guidance from Dr Rāwiri Tinirau, a local researcher and director of Te Atawhai o Te Ao, an independent Māori institute for the environment and health.
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Visual design and artwork were created by local Māori artist Judd Bailey, while the visitor experience production was led by Lily Frederikse, Director of Stitchbird, an agency specialising in place-based storytelling, visitor experience, museum and public space design across Aotearoa.
“There’s a responsibility that comes with sharing stories in a public space,” says Rāwiri. “It’s not just about what’s told – it’s about how it’s told, and who it’s for. This project creates a space for reflection, for learning, and for connection to grow. And it has been a real community effort, with help from the Whanganui Regional Museum, local hapū, artists and story tellers, and people coming and sharing, adding all those layers together.
Together,
“This project is part of a longterm vision to build richer, more meaningful visitor experiences”
“There were challenges of course, we’re all busy and there were so many moving parts, and that is where Lily came in. She was really good at stitching everything together.”
“There were so many people who do walking tours,” Lily says, “and we started by bringing as many people together as possible, from hapū to people who do guided tours to descendants of some of the characters featured.
“Then we started to weave all this together into design and story frameworks. There were lots of perspectives from people at the museum and the library and Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, historians, and people who do walking tours, and who know the environment, and all these had to be woven in.”
“We were also really conscious of targeting the right groups of people,” says Lily. “A local family group walking along the riverbank on a Saturday morning is different to a couple from Wellington interested in history. We ended up working with lots of local people, from trained voice actors to amateur theatre groups, descendants of the people in the stories and regular members of the community, and so that localism is infused throughout the project.”
“Seeing the kids immersed in the waters of the river, you get a sense that Te Awa Tupua is not an abstract idea. It’s a real, living being.”
“And I think that really added to the projectit meant so much to people and standing at the finish line for me was just so spectacular.”
“There’s one part of the trail that I’m particularly fond of and that kind of sums it all up for me,” says Rāwiri. “It’s a spot where a lot of our tamariki like to swim. We have a saying ‘Ko au te Awa, ko te Awa ko au’ - ‘I am the River; the River is me - and when you are reading the sign and seeing the kids immersed in the waters of the river, you get a sense that Te Awa Tupua is not an abstract idea. It’s a real, living being.”
“And there are always more stories to tell, and more places to tell them. This is just the beginning.”
Exhibitions on Now:
Richard Wotton: A Selective Eye, Photographs 1975-2025
13 December 2025 - 3 May 2026
Āhua Rerekē: Curious Works from the Collection 18 October 2025 – ongoing
Isiaha Te Rangatira Barlow: Fire, Knowledge, and Creation: Māui & Prometheus in Conversation 6 December 2025 – 3 May 2026
Jade Townsend: From the Lion’s Mouth 21 February – 14 June 2026
Lorene Taurerewa: The Waking World 14 March – 21 June 2026
Messengers
A touring exhibition developed by City
1 4 March – 21 June 2026
One partner for every property decision.
Property decisions are rarely one-size-fitsall. Whether you’re buying, selling, leasing, or investing, the right outcome comes from understanding the market, the asset, and the people behind it.
At Bayleys, we deliver a complete property service across Residential, Commercial, Rural and Property Management, supported by deep regional knowledge and national strength. Our teams live and work in the communities they serve, giving clients real insight into local marketswhile tapping into Bayleys’ extensive networks, data, and expertise nationwide.
From first homes and family moves, to farms, investments, developments, and commercial assets, we tailor our approach to your goals, your timeframe, and your property. It’s this combination of sectorwide capability, local understanding, and proven strategy that consistently delivers stronger outcomes for our clients.
Wherever you are on your property journey, you’ll find a team that’s informed, connected, and committed - working together to achieve an altogether better result.
Bayleys Whanganui
06 348 0573 | 158 Wicksteed Street, Whanganui
Bayleys Ruapehu
06 385 0170 | 16 Goldfinch Street, Ohakune
Bayleys Taihape
06 928 9599 | 98A Hautapu Street, Taihape
Bayleys Marton
06 327 7343 | 275 Broadway, Marton
Bayleys Feilding
06 323 0333 | 49 Manchester Street, Feilding
Bayleys Palmerston North
06 357 4989 | 243 Broadway Avenue, Palmerston North
ACROSS ALL SECTORS ALL OVER THE REGION
INDUSTRIAL-SCALE OPPORTUNITY ALIGNED WITH WHANGANUI’S NEXT GROWTH PHASE
Manuka Development delivers a range of industrial sections for lease within a coordinated, masterplanned estate designed to support Whanganui’s next phase of commercial and industrial growth. The subdivision provides sites of varying sizes, allowing occupiers to secure land configured to suit specific operational requirements, building footprints and future expansion plans.
Sections are being released in stages and can accommodate warehousing, distribution, inland port services, infrastructure-related activity and manufacturing operations, including enterprises aligned with renewable energy and emerging industrial sectors. The estate layout has been carefully considered to support efficient heavy vehicle circulation, practical building platforms and streamlined design-build outcomes, with ground lease and tailored development solutions available.
Comprehensive geotechnical investigations have been completed across the wider development area to inform subdivision planning and construction parameters. The findings confirm the land is generally suitable for conventional industrial
development, with stable ground conditions, low liquefaction susceptibility and no mapped active fault lines crossing the site. This underpins confidence in buildability and staged delivery.
Positioned within an established industrial precinct and supported by continued district-wide infrastructure investment, Manuka Development responds to increasing demand for fit-for-purpose industrial accommodation. Whanganui continues to demonstrate depth in manufacturing and industrial capability, with the sector contributing a higher proportion to local GDP and employment than the national average.
Spanning approximately 18.57 hectares in total, the wider estate provides the scale and longterm framework to deliver a cohesive industrial environment, while maintaining flexibility through section sizing and staged release. Manuka Development presents an opportunity for industrial operators and strategic partners to secure well-considered land within a district actively advancing its industrial capacity.
Ōhiwa Oyster Farm
For decades the Ōhiwa Oyster Farm was widely rumoured to have the best fish, chips and oysters in Aotearoa New Zealand, with people coming from all over the country to try its great kai and enjoy its stunning location. Now a new chapter has begun for this beloved spot - Tio Ōhiwa - and it’s going from strength to strength.
The Oyster Farm started up in 1968 and soon became famous as the place to eat as you travelled up or down the coast but also as a destination in itself for foodies or just good old-fashioned lovers of seafood. Fresh oysters straight from the estuary just past Ōhope, expertly prepared fish and chips, all in alfresco dining done the classic Kiwi way; what was not to like?
WhakatāneŌhope Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau
In 2023 the farm was bought by Wini and Simon Geddes, bringing it into Māori ownership - and fulfilling a childhood dream of Wini, who is a descendant of local iwi Ngāti Awa and who grew up locally harvesting kai moana. Wini had fond memories of the oyster farm, and as a family the Geddes shared a deep love for the ocean and its bounty, so it was a perfect fit to carry on the legacy of oyster farming at Ōhiwa with values of sustainability, community and innovation.
The food remains mouth-wateringly good, with 2000 oysters shucked fresh each day from the four farms that are nestled in the harbour behind the shop. But there are also paua, mussels and pretty much every Kiwi favourite available, as well as a little something special like the steak and oyster burger or smoked salmon tails. There is, however, more going on at Tio Ōhiwa than progressing the legacy of an iconic local business. Much more.
First up, Tio Ōhiwa offers cruise tours on the Ōhiwa Harbour taking in a guided history of the estuary, a tour of the oyster farm, Ohakana Island, Tauwhare Pā (one of the oldest in the country), and an interactive oyster experience that includes shucking, tasting and serving, complete with a complimentary meal. Ōhiwa has a long and storied history, both for Māori and Pākehā, and with its stunning land and seascapes it’s easy to see why.
The tour is a 90 minute slice of visual, cultural and culinary paradise that leaves twice a day on the tide aboard the launch Kōtiti, a state-of-the-art vessel that introduces Kiwis - and an increasing number of international visitors - to the stories and treats of Ōhiwa Harbour.
Tio Ōhiwa is also something of a community hub though. Since its inception it has hosted more than 1,000 students, teaching them sustainability and the importance of bringing people together through good food and good company and an understanding of place, people and passion. The company now employs 15 staff, in the farms and shop, but is also nurturing a new generation of business entrepreneurs and connecting them to Ōhiwa.
The star of the show for many however - that is connecting even more people to Ōhiwais the Tio Ōhiwa Oyster Festival. Now in its third year, the festival offers a one-of-a-kind coastal experience that can only be found in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Food and oyster vendors from across Aotearoa, chef demonstrations, live music, competitions, and premium seafood served throughout the day, all at the nearby Port Ōhope Wharf. It’s a showcase of local flavour, culture, and the start of a new oyster season, the perfect ‘farewell to summer’ getaway before winter kicks in.
The first festival in 2023 attracted 500 people; this year the Festival on 16 May is expected to attract five times that so get your tickets now.
The lineup this year includes Maisey Rika, TAYLAH, and celebrity chefs Kasey and Kārena Bird will also be bringing their passion for kai and creativity to the festival. There will be fresh oysters shucked, a curated lineup of food trucks, and a festival bar featuring Mata Beer from Whakatāne, Matahui Gin, and Herringbone Wines from Hawke’s Bay. The festival will also host the second ever Ōhiwa Oyster Queen Competition. General Admission and VIP tickets are available now at www.ohiwaoysterfest.com
Market Forces
AUCKLAND TĀMAKI MAKAURAU
has some very big ticket items when it comes to must-sees: the Viaduct, Sky Tower, Art Gallery and Waiheke to name just a few. But to really get a feel for the city, its multiculturalism, its people and what it does on its day off, get on over to some of the City of Sails’ awesome markets; they’re a great place to unwind, take the pulse of our largest city, stock up on produce - and eat!
Markets may seem to be a relatively recent phenomenon, a product of the 70s counter-culture that saw tie-dyed tees and hand crafts spilling out of stalls in places like the Victoria Park Market, but they have been a part of Auckland for much longer. In 1855 the first public market was established where the Aotea Centre stands today and was soon home to green grocers, secondhand and furniture dealers, and what have been described as ‘entertainers and hucksters’.
As the city grew more and more wholesale markets sprang up, generally serving specific industries like livestock, which was bought and sold at ‘the new market’, that became Newmarket. Urbanisation meant that Aucklanders were soon buying from shops rather than markets however, and they would ultimately embrace the convenience of supermarkets that then basically took over the market and ruled supreme.
They may offer convenience, but even the best supermarkets can’t offer the colour, the mix of cultures, the friendly chaos and culinary delights of an open air market. Fresh produce - the fabled ‘from farm gate to plate’ - street food from around the world, entertainment and a sense of discovery make Auckland’s markets a fantastic way to spend a few hours, and remember that there are Saturday, Sunday and even some weekday options. There are way too many to cover in these pages, but here are a few to whet your appetite.
One of the oldest and best known is the Ōtara market, a great source of fresh, affordable local produce, new and used
In 1855 the first public market was established where the Aotea Centre stands today.
clothing and arts and crafts with a distinctly Māori/Pacific flavour. It’s something of a cultural institution - politicians like to bolster their street cred with a visit - but also a really fantastic place to shop and sample some genuinely home-made taste sensations.
Another well-established Auckland institution and a must-see experience is the Avondale Sunday Market. Somewhat strangely, it was founded by the local Labour Party branch many years ago, and it has cool old school car boot sales, great value produce, and plenty of plants if you want to start growing your own. Like the Ōtara Market it has a strong Asia and Pacific flavour and it gets busy - as in 15,000-20,000 people busy!
For a change of pace head up north to the Matakana Village Farmers Market. Just as it says on the tin this is a farmers market with great artisan produce like locally baked bread, locally roasted coffee, and fresh locally made pasta; this is a foodies paradise, all set around a beautiful river with alfresco dining and live music. There’s even a boutique cinema and though it’s an hour’s drive from Auckland it is just ten minutes from the beach and there are vineyards nearby, making it a great full day out of the city.
Another market that very much cuts its own track is The Shed Collective in Oratia, about 25 minutes from the CBD. Each week the Collective hosts up to 35 vendors in a stylee indoor/outdoor venue who bring a stunning diversity of foodie faves: spray-free produce, French pastry, coffee, gluten-free baking, kimchi, salads, hummus, pita and falafel, sourdough bread, preserves, pickles, and sushi. The perfect place to eat well in laid back vibes and also stock up with healthy treats for the coming week.
If you want to stay closer to the heart of the city (and maybe walk off brunch) there are plenty of central options. Britomart has a market with great eats, Parnell’s Farmers Market offers excellent organic produce, microgreens and locally grown oyster mushrooms, and it is also home to a famous four-hour slow-cooked brisket sandwich and outstanding Basque cheesecake. The craft markets in Mount Eden Village meanwhile are home to unique treasures made by local creatives: finely crafted jewellery, handmade chocolates, homewares and skincare, all housed in beautiful heritage buildings.
And when you’ve had one too many boutique coffees, have enough fresh veg to last forever, and feel like visiting simpler times, look no further than Mount Eden’s Central Flea Market. The organisers of this delightfully retro market in Balmoral are on a mission to celebrate the area’s urban diversity with a vibrant open-air market featuring vintage and antique dealers, designers and artists, as well as the obligatory food trucks and live music. It’s safe to say that you will not be bored at the Central Flea, and not only does it feature the kinds of finds that will make your friends jealous, but each market is a little different from the one before, with special exhibitors and events.
‘Something for everyone’ is so very clichéd, but it’s just so very true of Auckland’s amazing market scene.
Our fleet
Air Chathams has a fleet of 9 aircraft, ranging from single-engine light planes to turbo-prop 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.
ATR 72
Our newest regional airliner
Speed
500 kilometres per hour
Max Altitude 25,000 feet
Pressurised Cabin Yes
No. of Pilots 2
No. of Flight Attendants 2
No. of Seats 68
Inflight Catering Available Toilet Yes
Saab 340
Our Swedish princess
Speed
470 kilometres per hour
Max Altitude 25,000 feet
Pressurised Cabin Yes
No. of Pilots 2
No. of Flight Attendants 1
No. of Seats 34
Inflight Catering Available Toilet Yes
Cessna 206
The Chatham Islands workhorse
Speed 230 kilometres per hour
Max Altitude 10,000 feet
Pressurised Cabin No
No. of Pilots 1
No. of Flight Attendants 0
No. of Seats 5
Inflight Catering No
Toilet No
The airline that brings New Zealand together
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 more than 40 years we’ve been bringing New Zealand together.
Auckland
Tāmaki Makaurau
Whakatāne -
Kāpiti Coast
Chatham Islands
Christchurch
Wellington
Whanganui
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ICC Women's Cricket World Cup
