Cycling: Did Armstrong holiday in Hawke's Bay?

Lance Armstrong. Photo / Getty Images

The appearance of a private jet at Hawke's Bay Airport has created speculation that American cycling star Lance Armstrong has been holidaying in the region.

The Gulfstream 4SP aircraft is understood to have arrived from Australia last Tuesday and was scheduled to depart mid-morning today.

The aircraft had been serviced by Air Napier during its stay although a spokesman for the company said he could not comment on whether Mr Armstrong was aboard.

However, a check on websites featuring the American's private jet show it to have distinctive black and yellow stripes along its sides. The Gulfstream which has been parked up at Hawke's Bay Airport has similar markings.

The American had been in Australia last weekend taking part in the Tour Down Under and there were hopes he would appear in a Wellington cycling event.

But he did not, although rumours had been circulating all week that he had decided to take a break in the Bay before returning home.