Hawke's Bay & East Coast Aero Club Open Day

Free

The Hawke’s Bay & East Coast Aero Club at Bridge Pa is organising an Open Day on the 18th of January 2026.

The day will largely include static displays of aircraft, microlights, gliders, helicopters, model aircraft, paragliders, a few drones, classic cars, motorbikes, and classic tractors (probably including the steam roller that helped roll the original aerodrome runway). Club members and Air Training Corps cadets are present to guide visitors and answer questions. A few flying demonstrations may take place as the club starts preparing for the 100-year celebration in 2028.

There will be coffee, ice cream and a sausage sizzle (as a fundraiser for the team that will participate in the National Championships in Timaru in February 2026), as well as face-painting.

The club will also have a running presentation on its activities during Cyclone Gabrielle, when the Air Force and locals assisted with the emergency actions.

In addition, the rescue helicopter will be on display with the crew, to talk to the public (provided they don’t actually have to 'do' a rescue). There is a whisper that they may demonstrate how they winch rescuers down and back up again. If possible, the Air Ambulance will attend as well.

The club will offer heavily reduced short trial flights at $50 and $100, both in General Aviation aircraft (PA-38 Tomahawk) and the club's microlight (RV12), for those who would like to get a taste of flying. One great and affordable way to take off yourself under the guidance of a club instructor.

It has been a long time since the club held an open day. This Open Day offers the opportunity to have a look at what is available in terms of aviation, old and modern. Combined with the classic car, motorbike and tractor display, there will be something interesting for everybody!

Come and have a look at what your local aerodrome offers!

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