Air Chathams can expect a big welcome when Whanganui Airport stages a special open day on Sunday.
The privately owned air service is taking over the Whanganui-Auckland run being vacated by Air New Zealand. Air New Zealand's last flight is into the city on Sunday afternoon with Air Chathams' first flight leaving Whanganui at 6.55am the next day.
Allan MacGibbon, the airport manager, said the open day was being well supported by community organisations and local aviators.
Mr MacGibbon said Air Wanganui will be rolling out its new Kingair 200 - one of two Kingair aircraft used to provide the city's vital medical links and charter services around New Zealand.
"The Wanganui Aero Club will be giving youngsters the chance to look at, and handle the controls of, a light aircraft - on the ground of course. They will also have a range of club and member's aircraft on display.