Bird's eye view of White Island

With the noise of two powerful engines ringing in my ears I knew it was time to pop in the ear plugs, sit back and enjoy the view of Whakatane from the air.

Above me was clear blue sky and more than 3000ft (900m) below was Mt Tarawera.

I was aboard Scott Air's twin prop plane taking a tour, with three other passengers, of the area's scenery - a bird's eye view of the volcanic region and White Island.

First point of interest after take-off from Whakatane Airport was Mt Tarawera and the Waimangu thermal valley. After 10 minutes or so it was an about-turn as we headed out to sea. On the horizon the sea and the sky met with only whispers of clouds bringing texture to the sky.

As land was left behind me I knew I was less than 20 minutes away from the reason I was airborne - White Island.

It beckoned with its unmistakable plumes of steam. I was grinning from ear to ear to see the island 1200ft (360m) below me. We circled high and low, went across it and circled in the other direction so everyone on board got a good look at the rock's formations and colours.

Our pilot Chris Scott left co-pilot Tony Young in charge while he stepped back to point out items of interest on the island and tell us of some of its history.

Then, before we knew it, it was time to head back for a soft landing after an hour in the air.

* Scott Air flights cost between $135 and $429 each, depending on which of three tours and two aircraft is selected. Ph: (07) 308 9558.

Scott Air