Feilding Blue Light and local children took to the skies for the annual Blue Light 'Take a Kid Flying' event on Saturday.
'Take a Kid Flying' is a national Blue Light event aimed at giving kids the opportunity to fly in a light aircraft. There are several events held simultaneously around New Zealand from Whangārei to Balclutha.
The event was again held at the Taonui Airfield, with the young passengers being flown over Feilding and the wider area, giving them a good aerial view of their own surroundings.
Feilding Bluelight was able to take 25 children and young people flying thanks to local pilots who belong to the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association.
The pilots provide the planes, fuel, and their time, all free of charge. A BBQ lunch was also put on by Blue Light volunteers from Bunnings, The Warehouse, and Community Patrols New Zealand.
Children from Intermediate age to High School got a chance to participate, and nominations were made to the Feilding Blue Light Coordinator Senior Constable Allan Wells.
"The day was another great success and while the youth were waiting for their turn to fly, they got to play on the Blue Light V8 racing simulator," says Allan.
"Those involved were extremely grateful for having the opportunity and to experience flying in a light aircraft. Some of the kids were so excited they couldn’t get to sleep the night before the event because it was their first time in a plane.
"The feedback from parents was awesome and they thought it was a fantastic opportunity for the kids to do something that not every family gets to experience."
Members of the Feilding Blue Light Committee, made up of local police officers and other adults, also attended and kindly assisted with the activities on the ground.
"The continued support of local pilots headed by Captain Brian Hill, is greatly appreciated by all involved and they should be proud of the way they generously give back to the community with their efforts," says Allan.