Making history

There was nothing between professional trapeze artist Pipi-Ayesha Rowe and the ground but 1000 feet of air yesterday.

She made what is believed to be New Zealand history after hanging from the base of a basket at the Wairarapa Balloon Fiesta.

The first attempt at the stunt almost 100 years ago ended in a blaze of non-glory when the balloon caught fire.

It was bad weather that almost forced the trick to be cancelled this time, with pilot Rick Walczak shifting the balloon from Masterton to Martinborough.

Even with a head for heights and safely secured, Rowe admitted to a bout of nerves before the big act.

"It was a little bit scary when I did tricks and went upside down. But I know what I'm doing and nothing went wrong."