Hamilton to Chatham Island

DAY 24, LEG 100 - Hamilton to Chatham Islands

Following a service and the removal of the ferry tank we had fitted for the Pacific crossing, our Beech is ready for the next leg, and the 100th of the tour, to Chatham Island.  This is the largest of the Chatham Islands archipelago home to Air Chathams which operates various types around the islands and to New Zealand including a Convair 580.

Climbing out of Hamilton past Lake Arapuni on the way to Chatham Island.

Approaching Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand, which lies in the caldera of the Taupo volcano.

The first view of the Chatham Islands about 80nm away from the airport.

In the descent the weather deteriorates slightly so we request the GPS approach to runway 05.

Very overcast as we start the GPS procedure.

Parked at Chatham Island airport in the drizzle.

A close-up of the Beech as we get ready to refuel and head off on the next leg!

NZHN - NZCI stats

Take off time:  0826

Landing time:   1021

Flight time:       01:55

Fuel used:        815kgs / 1793lbs

Norfolk Island to Hamilton

DAY 23, LEG 99 - Norfolk Island to Hamilton

Our last leg of the day takes us to Hamilton, New Zealand, home of Eagle Airways maintenance who will overhaul the aircraft overnight and remove the ferry tank which was fitted in Santiago to allow us to cross the Pacific.  Before setting off, we make sure the ferry tank is empty so we do not lose any fuel when the engineers take it out!

Parked at Norfolk Island preparing for departure.  It appears someone has hung the Australian and New Zealand flags the wrong way round on the terminal building!

Taking off from runway 11 at Norfolk Island and setting course.

The sunset is having a dramatic effect on the clouds below.

Approaching the city of Auckland and preparing for descent.

A little high on final to runway 36 at Hamilton but the aircraft is configured for landing and the speed is coming back so it should present no problems for the Beech.

Parked in front of the hangar at Hamilton.

YSNF - NZHN stats

Take off time:   1844

Landing time:    2108

Flight time:        02:24

Fuel used:         1030kgs / 2266lbs