Second Round New Zealand Air Race Planned For 2004

Second Round New Zealand Air Race Planned For 2004

A group of aviation enthusiasts from Auckland's North Shore is organising another Round New Zealand Air Race which will be held in April 2004. This is only the second race in 12 years.

The Race will begin in Auckland and make stops in Kerikeri, Tauranga, New Plymouth, Taupo, Napier/Hastings, Gisborne, Masterton, Omaka, Rangiora, Nelson, Hokitika, Christchurch, Omarama, Te Anau, Invercargill and Queenstown. The end of the Race will coincide with the Warbirds Over Wanaka airshow two weeks later.

Air New Zealand captain Mat Wakelin, who was instrumental in organising the last Round New Zealand race, says that people are still talking about the first one.

"Besides being good flying practice, the race gives everyone a chance to meet like-minded adventurers. The reaction from people so far has been very positive", he says.

Rob Mackley, an Auckland businessman who completed the London to Sydney Air Race with Mat in 2001, is the Chairman of the 2004 organising committee. Rob says that although the focus will be on fun and enjoyment, it is a well-planned event that will cater for serious racers as well. "Last time the event was held, about half of the entrants were there to race and the other half were there for the social aspect. We expect that it will be the same this time. It's a unique event that offers something for pilots of all levels."

Huge interest in the event is being managed online this year and people can obtain further details or register their interest at http://www.airrace.co.nz

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