15.2.15 - Found us @ the airfield @ Te Kowhai 40 km east of Raglan at 7.50 (left Auckland @ 5.45 am - such enthusiasm). Thank you Neil for this

A quick cup of tea and we were ready for this adventure of a life-time . The Chipmunk being a 2 seater, Neil could only take one passenger at a time.
As he could see how excited I was, Chad kindly volunteered to be the follow on and drive to Raglan and meet us there.

First things first, Neil did all the safety checks (quite rigorous) and explained to us what was happening and what would happen during the flight.
After that it was into the passenger seat and before I realised it we had a smooth take off and were soon quite high up in the air. The world certainly looks different from up there and unlike a normal commercial plane there is a lot more glass to see it from.

I won't say I wasn't nervous because I was although not quite the feeling of dread that I have experienced on some occassions. The nerves did not last for long, Neil's very skilled handling of the Chipmunk, the lovely clear morning and the wonderful sights below us saw to that.

The flight West to Raglan was very picturesque and we landed in a park/field (a public place where you have to watch out for the dog walkers and children). Of course, Neil stays in touch with the ground control @ Hamilton to ensure that there is nothing untoward that we need to take into account.

Once there we awaited Chad's arrival as it was then his turn to be up in the air. I am sure he is going to be thrilled with the experience.