Hundreds turn out for balloon event

Hundreds of people filled Martinborough Square yesterday cheering on more than 20 balloonists who avoided power lines and vineyards before swooping in to hit their target at the Wairarapa Times-Age Balloons Over Martinborough event.
A large cross at The Square kept competition tight with most pilots getting close to the target and Hamilton's Brian Boland nailing the bulls-eye said Balloonmeister Martyn Stacey.
"I'm absolutely rapt with the event and the guys really tried hard out there and demonstrated a number of skills, which continue to improve throughout the competition."
Stacey said he is praying for the wind gods to stay away for tonight's Night Glow that was limited to a burner glow last year because of bad weather.
"The public has just been amazing and the hundreds that turned out in support in Martinborough cheering on the balloons was such a sight to see."
Wairarapa Times-Age balloon flight competition winners Nicola and Joe Burling knew they were in for a treat when they arrived in Martinborough yesterday but the experience exceeded any expectations, Mrs Burling said.
"I was planning to get Joe a balloon flight for his birthday but it's not until June and I knew it would be the wrong time of year so winning the competition was perfect. Joe didn't believe me when I told him we had won but I definitely recommend it."