Wow - what an amazing afternoon!

We identified a need for some learners who are about to embark on their first solo flight up to Auckland to attend the upcoming He Hui Turi Immersion. To support our learners on their adventure we planned a trip to our Invercargill International Airport. We aimed to provide opportunities to develop their understanding of flying and airports. We wanted to grow their confidence as they are about to have their first solo flight.

We were welcomed by the airport management team Nigel, Julie, Chris, and Janet, who provided lunch with a view! We ate in our front row seats while we watched the Jet being loaded for Auckland. We then saw this take off and a smaller plane land from Wellington. From here we were given a tour of the airport. We got to see where the local Stewart Island plane takes off and have a chat to an Air New Zealand staff member about the process of checking in.

Did you know that dogs can fly to Stewart Island? And every person has to be weighed when they check in – even the dogs!

Now it was time to go behind the scenes! We each got provided a security card and were soon escorted out to the tarmac. We had the ground crew show us their cool toys that are used to service planes and load and unload people and luggage. We even got to have a ride on the Schopf - that is used to push and pull the planes out of their parking spots. We learnt that this vehicle can drive forwards, backward and sideways! From here we were given a tour of the fire station. We got to see the different parts of a fire engine and then got to have a turn with the hose.

It was a fantastic experience that we all won’t forget in a hurry! We feel honored to have this special experience, supporting our learners and preparing them for future experiences.

Thanks so much to Invercargill Airport for welcoming us and supporting this learning.