New air service set for Whakatane

Air Chathams Whakatane Air Services' inaugural flight will land in Whakatane at 9.30am on April 28. Photo / File

Air Chathams will introduce itself to the Eastern Bay when it becomes part of an open day this month.

The Eastern Bay of Plenty's new Whakatane-Auckland air services will be celebrated as part of the open day at Whakatane Airport on April 26.

Mayor Tony Bonne said the event would be a fun day out for families with Air Chatham's Convair 580 and Metroliner fleet and classic DC3 on display, plus a Vampire Jet, Yak aircraft, other classic planes, microlights and local aircraft.

"We'll also have classic cars and motorcycles, fire and rescue services and a range of other fun activities available," Mr Bonne said. "The Air Chathams DC3 will be offering scenic flights and our local companies, Frontier Helicopters and Whakatane Aerohire, will also be offering flights at an affordable cost.

"There's no better way to get a taste of our new air service offerings and get to know some of the people behind the scenes, so come along and enjoy this unique aeronautic opportunity."

Entry will be via gold coin, profits going to local activities co-ordinated by the Rotary Club of Whakatane Sunrise.

Food and refreshments will be available, to raise funds for the local Air Training Corps and Interact (Youth Rotary).

Air Chathams Whakatane Air Services' inaugural flight will land in Whakatane at 9.30am on April 28 - a special initiative by Air Chathams to ensure connections are available after Air New Zealand's final flight, which departs from Whakatane at 6.50am that day.

Following the inaugural flight, daily scheduled services to Auckland will operate at 7.15am, Monday to Friday, with weekday afternoon flights to Auckland departing at 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Weekend flights to Auckland will depart at 9.45am and 2.10pm on Saturdays and 11.45am on Sundays.

Auckland-Whakatane services will operate at 8.45am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, with Saturday services at 10.30am and 3.30pm; and a Sunday service departing for Whakatane at 2pm. Fares from $89 (including a 23kg bag) will be available.