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This Site Guide is the result of years of accumulating info and assesments for sites.
The Guide is issued to assist pilots flying these sites, and provide information to assist in safe flying and decision making. The sites accommodate a variety of flying styles and conditions, from learner slopes, long distance coastal soaring to thermaling and inland cross-country possibilities. Included in the guide are some obvious and not so obvious hints and rules, however, like every site which is new to you, an individual assessment must be made on the day to take account of the conditions and the individual skill levels.For most sites, a Site Monitor is listed, as a first point of contact for the peculiarities of a site.
Members of other clubs are welcome at Auckland Hang Glider and Paraglider Club sites provided they check with the Auckland Hang Glider and Paraglider Club first for site restrictions.
You have to be a member of the New Zealand Hang Glider and Paraglider Association (NZHGPA) to legally fly in New Zealand.
Visiting pilots from overseas must obtain Visitor Membership of the NZHGPA. Please visit NZHGPA Website for more info and to apply.
Some of the sites have more testing launch situations than others and have been accordingly rated. Please observe these ratings which have been given for ideal flying conditions and take account that more advanced skills may be required when conditions are less than perfect.
A pilot may only fly a site above his/her rating when under the direct supervision of a qualified instructor.
All Auckland Hang Glider and Paraglider Club sites are still used free of charge which is purely a reflection of good land owner/pilot relationships. It is imperative that the sites are always treated with the highest respect in the hope that we may continue to enjoy these privileges. Accordingly you are asked to bear in mind the following considerations:
Please check the Site Guide regularly to be aware of any changes that may have occured.
4 wheel drive vehicles cause less wear and tear on farm tracks, please limit vehicle numbers.
Leave them exactly as you find them.
The rule is - don't bring them, remembering in particular that all Maritime Park Board and AC Parks are administered by rules which ban dogs. Furthermore most farmers will have concerns about dogs on their property amongst their stock.
Don't land or drive on them.
Don't light them, not even cigarettes in the summer please.
These items to be used only by special arrangement with club officers. Please note that motorised foot launched traffic is banned in the rules of both ARC and Maritime Park Board controlled areas.
Please remember to fly with your streamer from your harness to assist other pilots providing you the courtesy of greater room.
Please not only do not leave any of your own litter behind you, but also assist in maintaining good relations with property owners by uplifting any other litter found on the site.
This code is reproduced on the following page, please observe its courtesies to ensure our continued access to sites.
All parks have variable opening and closing times, usually sunrise to sunset, these are displayed on boards at the entrance. Check them on arrival, getting locked in can be annoying and expensive. In farm parks such as Duders and Tawharanui, check with the ranger for any special restrictions such as stock in certain paddocks. Both dogs and motorised foot launched traffic are banned in these parks. Teaching and tandem flights can be subject to question as the park rules specially exclude commercial 'hire & reward' type operations unless especially licensed by the park boards.
On the following pages are details of recognised flying sites however there are many other localities, which may be flown from time to time, particularly with a paraglider. However always, always:
This guide has been updated by club members with the latest information available to them. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct it is every pilot's individual responsibility to check for current airspace restrictions and landowners/park operators consents, before flying.
If you find any information regarding sites that is incorrect in the Site Guide, or information that needs to be added, please notify the Site Monitor and/or the Club Committee.
This is the preferred way to notify the club of any corrections and omissions plus details of new sites for inclusion.
We depend on good relations with the farmers who own the land we fly on. Here are some guidelines to I ensure that they will allow us to continue on their property.
Each of the sites listed have individual notes as to airspace restrictions prevailing immediately over them, and pertinent to cross-country flights originating from them.
Every pilot has an obligation to be fully familiar with, and up to date in respect of the latest airspace restrictions. This information is available, in respect of Auckland sites, from the Auckland visual navigation chart published by and available from Aviation Publishing, P0 Box 294, Wellington, telephone 0800-500-045. This visual navigation chart is updated every six months.
A summary of the principal points affecting sites and some general comments follow:-
i.e. Dills Hill, Moirs Hill, Bridges, Five Fingers.
Most of these sites have an initial height restriction immediately above them of 3,500 feet and several other special conditions. Whenever pilots fly the above sites, a courtesy call should be made to: North Shore Airfield - 09 426-4273 advising whoever is on duty along the following lines: This is (name) from the Auckland Hang Glider and Paraglider Club. We are today flying from (site) and intend flying in a easterly/westerly/northerly direction and this will take us along your northern training zone airspace and this is just a courtesy call to let you know we are in your area.
Sites such as Muriwal on the west coast and from Long Bay to Takapuna on the east coast are all located in Transit Lanes. Further north in the Kaipara and south near Duders there are designated low flying training areas close by. Sites on the east coast from Takapuna to Glover park may infringe the Auckland MBZ. Pilots need to clearly acquaint themselves with restrictions relevant to each site.
Sites in this area, in particular Mt William and Puketutu are located within General Aviation Area number 275 with a height restriction of 4,500 feet by day.
Please follow these instructions carefully:
The main GAAs close to Auckland club sites:
Note: VFR Transit Lane heights vary (1000ft-1500ft) Check charts. Mandatory Broadcast times vary (5min. to 10min.) Check charts.
Note: further areas exist to the south which relate to Waikato club sites. Advice should be sought from Waikato Club for local arrangements in using these areas.
In the case of NZG151 you are entitled to use this space without talking to Auckland Tower as it is also a training area. However North Shore Airfield needs to be advised of your intentions.
In the case of NZG276, this space must have ATC approval. The governing factor is wind and weather governing direction of landings/take offs at Auckland International Airport.
If you have airband radio a continuous broadcast on the "ATIS" frequency 128.3 will advise which areas are open. If you don't have access to this facility or you wish to ask for the area to be opened especially then, telephone the Auckland Tower on 09-299 8187 or free phone the National flight briefing office on 0800 626756.
Whenuapal Controlled Airspace
This airspace is active usually weekdays only, with limited weekend use when special operations in progress. It is possible to obtain permission on occasion to pass through this airspace by special request to the Whenuapai Tower on 09-302 7421 or 09-417 7099 extension 7445. When ATC at Whenuapai tower are off watch this area becomes an MBZ (until Nov 08)
Hang gliders and paragliders are permitted to operate in these lanes up to a height of 1,000ft (East coast) or 1500ft (west coast)ASL. However if pilots are equipped with airband radios then this ceiling is raised to 2,500ft ASL.
These area are only available to those pilots flying with airband radios. Pilots are required to broadcast their position and intentions on the correct frequency on entering and again every ten minutes whilst inside the area.
These areas in the Hauraki Gulf and on the North Shore up to Moirs Hill are non-mandatory and advisory only for aircraft with airband radio.
This page contains a 3D map of New Zealand airspace. Currently CTA, GAA and MBZ are included. You have the option of viewing the airspace using either the Google Earth desktop application or the browser plugin.
To view this map on the Google Earth desktop application you need to download and install Google Earth. Then click on this icon to load the airspace map
Use the controls on the map to zoom in, tilt the view to horizontal and fly through the airspace. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish the different airspace boundaries, so try turning specific airspaces off or on using the tree below the map.
If you want to load the airspace files into your GPS then check out the Airspace Project pages.
Google Map of Auckland Flying Sites (Opens in new window)
Use the Site Search to filter for wind directions etc.
View this map on Google Earth (KML File)
Load these locations into your GPS using this GPX file
Enter your search criteria in the fields below to filter the list of sites.
|Whangaparaoa Peninsula - Lookout Ridge
|Whangaparaoa Peninsula - Te Haruhi Bay
|Whangaparaoa Peninsula - Tiri Channel
Google Map of Auckland Flying Sites
View the map on Google Earth (KML File)
Load these locations into your GPS using this GPX file
Bethell's Beach is located on Auckland's West Coast between Piha and Muriwai Beaches accessible by taking Bethell's road from Swanson on the Northern end of the Waitakere Ranges. Arriving at Bethell's beach the actual site is to the north of the beach by climbing the first headland around to O'Neil's bay. Launch is either from the centre of the bay or top of the ridge.
The farmer who owns the property has concerns over our activities disturbing stock and has asked that we check with him before entering or flying - check with the site monitor.
PG.: Be particularly aware of the possibility of turbulence from the headland located to the South. Particular caution in the event of wind change is required as any change and strengthening to the South results in no safe landing options remaining. For the same wind direction and conditions there are much more friendly sites available. The site is now not often flown.
This site is located in VFR Transit Lane T156 with a flight ceiling of 1500 feet A.S.L.
A SE site with a lot of potential and a commiting launch.
This site is located 8 kilometres West of Dills Hill on West Coast Rd that runs from Araparere to Woodcocks. Quickest access is up state highway 16 past Kaukapakapa. Turn right on to West Coast Rd, go 2 kilometres along the road to the old fire staion building. (If you get to the new one you have gone too far). The new owners are Mark and Poppy Keskic.
There is good landing areas on flats below but keep an eye out for temporary electric fences. When low in the valley be aware of the likelihood of a sea breeze pushing in resulting in a wind change to the South West with resultant unpleasant turbulence.
Please always call at the farm house before proceeding, site owners Mark and Poppy Keskic are very friendly. The takeoff at the top of the hill is 900 foot A.S.L. Vehicles can be driven up only in very dry conditions, but it is extremely rough and you require a 4 Wheel Drive with a good muffler clearance (or just an attitude). Please note that access is via the cattle race. Do not attempt to drive vehicles in or out during milking time - around 4pm.
NOTE: Due to growth of pine trees in front of top T.O. ratings were upgraded in 2005. Further growth has reduced the viability of this site and extreme caution is required. Ensure wind direction is straight up the cut between trees and wind streamers are flying.
This site is located neat the edge of CTA within GAA NZG 151 with a height restriction of 3,500ft ASL immediately above launch, until you pass a line to the north running between Five Fingers and Dills Hill when the restriction rises to 4,500ft ASL.
February 1994 hang glider pilot Ian Clark flew 143km to Kaikohe in 5 hrs attaining 5,700ft and setting a new NZ cross country record.
Dill's Hill online weather station
Located West of Warkworth you reach the site by driving North along State Highway 1 to Warkworth. As you enter the township of Warkworth take the first turn to the left (Woodcocks road) and follow this road for 10 km. After crossing the railway line continue up the hill for about 1.5 km until you reach the top at a sharp right hand bend with a pull over area and gate to a pine forest on the left. On the right there is a clay dry weather only track leading to the takeoff. Go through 2 more gates up to the trig and then you are in the launch area.
Take-off height is 700 foot A.S.L and 400 foot above the landing paddock. The bottom landing is straight out in front in any one of several paddocks. For Hang glider retrieval vehicles the bottom landing is accessed through a farm on Davie Martin Road. Davie Martin Road is the first on the left heading north west along Old Woodcocks Road. Old Woodcocks Road is the road on the left just back over the railway line. Before taking your vehicle on to the property for retrieval, check the signs on the farm gate at the sharp bend on West Coast Road or Davie Martin Road and telephone the owners. Ensure you leave gates as you find them.
The access track is suitable for four wheel drive vehicles only. During wet periods do not attempt to drive up any tracks if you begin to skid as the situation will only deteriorate further in. Carry equipment to take-off or out of the landing area rather than cut up any of the farmer's tracks. Always close any gates behind you. Telephone the landowner before you take retrieval vehicles into the landing area. This site is closed for lambing every year between mid August the end of September. Check with site monitor for further info.
PG: Be careful of scratching low down amongst the spines if the wind is very cross. HG: There is a good top landing in the paddock to the left of take-off however do not go behind the crest on top landing as this can be expensive in aluminium and pride. Although there are a number of possible landing paddocks take care to thoroughly scrutinise these on foot beforehand as some have little streams and gullies running through them plus a few bulls. If the wind is off to the east - southeast landing can be turbulent.
This site is located below CTA/C with a VFR ceiling of 4,500ft ASL. Kaipara Flats airfield is almost directly in front to the North East so be aware of aircraft movements and possible parachute activity. If you go cross country heading in a south westerly direction NZG151 with a flight ceiling of 3,500ft ASL starts 0.4km south of launch and encompasses both sides of West Coast Rd and continues approximately 3km north of the West Coast Rd and SHW 16 intersection. Approximately west of SHW 16 flight ceiling is 2500ft. Further south NZG155 Woodhill and NZG154 Whenuapai extend to the west coast with a ceiling of 3500ft, both can be used with ATC approval. For pilots equipped with air-band radio Whenuapai CTR/D may on occasion be used with ATC approval and when ATC are off watch (usually weekends) the CTR/D becomes a MBZ. Check the latest charts this area.
Be aware there is now a MBZ for Parakai (SW of Kaukapakapa) of approximately 3 mile radius.
Hang glider pilot Debbie Corbbet has flown across country from this site to Muriwai.
PG pilot Evan Lamberton has also flown to Muriwai setting a site record of 40.8km in Jan 2005.
This was extended (just) to 41.2km by Jeff Ripley in March 2011, landing on Muriwai Beach.
Wayne Rohrs then set a new record of 59.1Km on 24th Feb 2013 flying Northwest to land at Oparakau Rd near Ruawai, beating the old record by 18km.
On 6th of March 2019, this record was again brutally smashed by another 18 km by Leighton Joll, flying 77.03 km, landing close to Pukehuia, just west of Tangihua Forest.
Flights have also been made North past Wellsford and South to Stanmore Bay.
Take-off height at the northerly site is 280 foot A.S.L, normally in front of the trig, although the bowl immediately to right can be used also.
HG vehicles to be kept to a minimum. Drive slowly up the track towards the Trig. Park before the trig. DO NOT DRIVE PAST THE TRIG because the road there is subsiding and there are serious OSH issues involved. In other words, there is vehicle access to the northerly site, but you have to park before you come to the trig.
When the wind is square in (northerly) the whole Peninsula can be flown, if it is off to the north west or north east it will be marginal going around to and back from the eastern end. Take-off heights at the south easterly site is 180 foot A.S.L, adjacent to the top dressing fertiliser bins. The best top landing is also in this area so vehicles should be parked as close as practical to the bins.
Located adjacent to Umupuia Beach, between Maraetai and Clevedon, 4.4 kilometres south from Maraetai.
P.G.: Beach under the Northern site there is no opportunity for beach landing between half and full tide similarly under the south eastern site bottom landing at between half and full tide is minuscule. H.G.: If bottom landing on the southeastern side beware of trenches across the paddock round the corner from launch.
The Whakakaiwhara Peninsula (both north and south eastern sites) is an Auckland Council Regional park and access permission should be obtained first by referral to Paul the ranger on mobile 021 676 300 or site monitor as detailed below and private and business phone numbers. Permission should be confirmed from the ranger before taking any vehicles into the park and only the minimum number of vehicles should be taken. Arrange to go in convoy, the balance of vehicles being left in the parking area before passing through the padlocked gate. The ranger is particularly concerned over pilots flying on their own. The rules do not permit this anyway but please respect this request or we are likely to lose the privilege of flying here.
Owing to the gentle contours of the south easterly site it is mainly soarable in stronger winds and often there is a fine line between the site being soarable and becoming too strong. For paragliders the North site is rated PG2 but the South East site is rated PG2 plus 30 hours. For hang gliders both sites are rated Intermediate.
This site is located within CTA/C with a flight ceiling of 1,500 feet, and the south easterly site is located within low flying area number L261 so be aware of other aircraft below Ridge height and close to the hill.
This site is identified on topographical maps as Mt Taranaki. It is fifteen minutes drive north from Kaukapakapa along State Highway 16, not far beyond the West Coast Rd (Araparere-Woodcocks road) junction with State Highway 16, located on the right hand side of the road whilst heading north, access beside a white wool shed. There is now only one launch site, on top of the hill; owing to the growth of the pine trees planted on the lower slopes.
Objections to our presence here have been made by residents to the south of the access track due to the disturbance to animals (dogs and horses). These have raised tensions amongst all land owners and lease holders and could lead to closure of the site. Do not low fly over or land in the properties south of the access track. The official landing area is the small paddock behind the wool shed although the larger one to the north of the track and close to the road may be used if no stock are present. Do not land in any of these areas if horses are present.
The land owner of this site is an absentee land owner but both farming and forestry leases have been granted to different operators. Access may be obtained without first telephoning the landowner but the wishes of the lease holders must be respected if they are present. Take care to leave all gates as they are found, do not cut up tracks in the event of the ground being wet and soft (particularly applicable to the lower track during winter). Beware of any stock found wandering in the forestry blocks, some have gone feral and can be dangerous.
P.G.: The launch is PG2 plus 60 hours. If the wind is not straight in, turbulence may be experienced due to the various spurs. Flying here is often not smooth and tucks etc are to be expected.
This site is located below CTA/C and G151 with a VFR height restriction above launch of 3,500 feet A.S.L. However it is near the boundary of the CTA and immediately to the north and north east the VFR ceiling raises to 4,500 feet A.S.L. North Shore air field should be advised of your operating at this site prior to flying. Kaipara Airfield is located 14Km directly behind this site in a ENE direction. The Kaipara harbour coastline in front of launch and the river valley to Makarau are a designated low flying training area so don't be surprised if you see light aircraft below you!
Hang glider pilot Ian Clark has flown 92 kilometres from this site.
PG pilot Jeff Ripley set a site record of 40Km to Cape Rodney in 2006.
PG pilot Dylan Vickerman flew to kawau Island, landing at Mansion House Bay.
An easier site to launch and land than Takapuna Grammar, and a longer cliff to soar than North Head.
Narrow Neck Beach or Top Land.
Care needs to be taken when scratching close to the Pohutukawa trees. Limited landing options below launch when tide is full.
This is located within VFR CFZ (common frequency zone) with a VFR Ceiling of 2,500ft ASL. Check NOTAMS for restrictions during major events in the Hauraki Gulf (helicopter activity).
On a good day a flight to Takapuna Beach and back is possible. (Who will be the first to make the transition from here to North Head)?
Take off height is approximately 160ft ASL.
This site is located at the northern end of Waitara road St Heliers, just to the east of Achilles point.
With no bottom landing between mid and high tide and a risky top landing behind trees this is not a site for novice pilots. If conditions permit transit Eastward along the coast to Karaka Bay some greater landing options are available but still limited by tidal movement. Alternatively landings can be made at Ladies Bay or, after a long downwind glide, Saint Heliers Bay but note the comments on airspace.
This site claims three or four pilots each season with landings in the tide, soaked gear and glidersl Make sure you know the state of the tide and have an alternative landing option in case the wind picks up or eases whilst you are in the air. If you are not confident on top landing or sure of an alternative landing option Murphy's Law will no doubt apply. Launch is between trees and wind direction must be straight in, especially for HG.
Be careful about the true windstrength, and assess it fully before taking off. In certain conditions, the wind at take off may appear lower then the real wind strength. Look for the signs of gust lines on the water towards Rangitoto, check the treetops to right and far left, and if in doubt pop around to the lookout at Achilles Point and measure the wind in the clear flow, unobstructed by any trees or cliff shadow. If wind strength is above 22km standing on launch, there is a high likelihood condtions may not be favourable.
Special care should be taken at this site and close reference to the latest visual navigation chart.
This site is located within VFR common frequency zone, height restriction of 2,500ft ASL and is on the very edge of Auckland City Mandatory Broadcast Zone. Height limit within this MBZ is 1500ft ASL.
Flying to the west beyond Achilles Point round to Saint Heliers or anywhere inland is illegal unless you are using an airband radio and obeying the requirements of the Mandatory Broadcast Zone the boundary of which you cross when you pass west of Achilles point or fly behind launch.
On one extraordinary late afternoon flight in 2000 Tony Seaman climbed to 1000ft asl. but was then unable to go anywhere owing to air traffic.
A ridge facing NW, needs a quite bit of wind to stay aloft hence it is sometimes a little rough.
This site is located on the top of the ridge 11 kilometres West South-West of Kaipara flats off of the Warkworth to Tauhoa road. Alternative access available off State Highway 16.
Before flying the site approach should be made to the farmer and site monitor. Farmer details Mrs Lewis, Ph:09 4224923
P.G.: This site has been flown very little by paragliders with the result that no real experience has been established although several occasions have proved conditions can be quite turbulent.
H.G.: Not often flown by Hang gliders.
This site is located in the outer perimeter of CTA/C with a height restriction for 4,500 foot A.S.L.. Before flying this site Kaipara flats air-field must be advised of your presence - refer to airspace comments at front of the guide.
In a league competition Craig Collings threw his reserve at around 200ft after a large collapse. Most pilots elected to land shortly afterwards - this site hasn't seen much action since then!
Hamilton's Gap is located toward the top of the Manukau South Head. Continue beyond Matakawau, headed for Manukau Heads light house and take the next road to the left, Hamilton road. Launch locations are to both right and left of the gap, the better prospect being to the right immediately along from the toilet block. This site will often work in light conditions when the wind is too light to fly at Karioitahi.
The farmer who owns the land on the left of the gap, is not keen on un-authorised access. Please contact the site monitor. (I know, because I got major talking to one day...)
This site is located within CTA/C with height restriction of 1500 feet A.S.L.
This site is not often flown now with a better alternatives available.
Located just South of Piha on the West Coast and off the Piha road.
The hang glider take-off is on the cliffs between Piha and Karekare and the paraglider take off is at the Southern end of Karekare beach.
South Karekare: Walk to southern end of the beach to the first bluff. Head upstream approx 50m, scramble up through trees and bushes untill you reach a level area at about 100 ASL.
The hang glider take-off is not suitable for paragliders because of rotor close to the edge.
The Karekare launch should not be used if the wind is strong and coming from further north than NW. There has been a near-fatality from rotor caused by the point at the north end of the beach.
Located in CTA/C with flight ceiling of 2,500 foot A.S.L.
The total length of soarable ridge from the Waikato River in the South to the Manukau Heads in the north is 35 kilometres. The best wind direction to make the trip to Manukau Heads is West South-West. The gaps are relatively easy to cross but be aware that there are limited landing options north of the Karioitahi Beach access road and next to no vehicle access.
Live weather data and a webcam mounted on the Surf Lifesaving Club is accessible here: http://www.kariaotahi.mobi/
The Holfuy live wind station for Karioitahi is at: https://holfuy.com/en/data/213
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE HOLFUY STATION SUGGESTS THAT SOUTH IS THE LIMIT FOR SOARING; IN FACT, THE LIMIT IS SOUTH SOUTHWEST (SSW). (We only have the options of SW or S with the software.)
This site is located on the West Coast, approximately one hours drive from downtown Auckland. Take the Southern Motorway and turn off at Drury, following the signs to Waiuku and then to Karioitahi. The road terminates at the beach and there are five separate launch sites:
A. The "High Site" also known as "The Main Cliff", 300 m north of the access road. (Used by PGs when wind is too light for the other launch sites).
B. The dunes at the end of the car park by the lifesavers building at the termination of the road - only used in strong wind by a few keen pilots. (Rarely used)
C. The lawn of the restaurant which is located on the cliff just above the lifesavers building, and accessed by a road turning left just before reaching the beach. (Sometimes used by PG pilots)
D. The "Club Launch" (hang glider) mid-point take-off located on the cliff approximately 500 metres to the south of the restaurant and lifesavers club. (Not used for PG training since the move to Maioro.) Drive up the sealed road, past the challets, until you see the gate to the south of chalet 18 (the gate is at the bottom of the track). The track is suitable for 4WD vehicles. Please avoid gouging out the track through wheel-spinning.
E. The top take-off located at the top of the cliff. This sites is accessed by either leaving the vehicle outside the Lifesavers Club, walking along the beach and up the cliff (PG) or, alternatively taking the private road from beyond the restaurant (PG & HG). (This is the main Karioitahi HG launch site.)
When landing on the beach keep look out for beach traffic particularly through summer and when the tide is high. There is a "no landing zone" that extends roughly 50 m north and south of the grassy derigging area in front of the bottom carpark. Please do your best to avoid landing close to the grassy derigging area when there are lots of other beach users about. Keep an eye out for vehicles and hoons on bikes before setting up for a landing.
The site lessee is the operator of Castaway's Restaurant. The road from the restaurant to the top take-off past the holidays homes has been extended by Gavin, in conjunction with the Club, and is a restricted access.
There is a 10 km per hour speed restriction when passing through the chalet area.
If you have a 2WD vehicle, please do not leave it parked next to the chalets at the top of the sealed road. Please park it in one of the non-chalet car parks.
It is unwise to use the top take-off (site E) in a southerly (wind very cross anyway) as there is no escape if your launch is not perfect or you are in risk of being dragged side ways. Be aware of being caught behind ridges when the wind is off to either the South of the North.
Rating for site C is P.G.2 plus 30 hours for PG and Intermediate & Cliff Launch for HG.
These sites are located within the outer area of CTA/C with a height restriction of 2,500 foot A.S.L, reducing to 1,500 foot approximately 8km north of Karioitahi, and over the township of Waiuku behind and to the east of Karioitahi
Hang glider pilot Anton Lawrence has flown from Kariotahi, crossing the Manukau entrance and landing at Whatipu. Hang glider pilot Carl Dreissen has flown over the back of Kariotahi and landed in Pukekohe. Paraglider pilots Peter Creighton and Jeff Ripley have flown over the back of Kariotahi and landed at Waiuku.
Update: 06.04.2017 :
The stairs to the beach has sustained severe damage in the recent weather, and is closed until further notice.
The actual launch area is 150m to the South of the parking area. For most paragliders launch takes place behind a combination locked gate although there is a bowl in front of the gate if the wind is strong.
If it is necessary to open the gate to launch please have someone pull it shut afterwards or have a person to stop the general public walking through. (This was requested by the council when the gate was installed for our use).
This site is located between Campbells and Castor Bays on the East Coast. Access is off Beach road, Castor Bay.
For PGs, the beach below is the safest option, tides permitting. Toplanding in clear space between pohutakawas is realtively easy, but care must be taken not to stray too far back from the cliff. Do no go back into the area where the grassy slope drops away. (Several people have been dumped in this spot).
The normal HG landing is on Milford Beach.
Care should be taken particularly on light wind days scratching close to the trees as it is very easy to catch a tip line. Between mid and high tide there is very little landing options on the beach. Particular care should be taken in top landing behind the gate - seek local regular pilots opinions on the day. In the event of wind increasing whilst flying this site there are no alternative landing options, except a long glide to Milford beach (normal landing area for hanggliders).
This site is located within VFR Transit lane T157 with a height restriction of 1000ft A.S.L. Flying is only permitted on the seaward side of the cliffs, the landward side being Whenuapai controlled airspace.
Several paraglider pilots have flown from this site direct to Auckland Hospital compliments of the Westpac Rescue Service helicopter, mostly as a result of attempting top landings (ask local pilots for advice before attempting top landings).
Many have flown to Murrays Bay and back when the wind direction is ENE.
25 September 2015
With the development of properties adjacent to this launch area, the growth of vegetation along the cliff edge and the Council fencing the cliff edge use of this launch site has become very restricted and rarely used.
An alternative site was developed to the north of Long Bay in the Long Bay Regional Park, sanctioned by the Council, but then subsidence resulted in the Council rerouting the pathway and fencing this area off from access. Unfortunately the Council permission for use of this site expired in April 2005 so this site is no longer available.
The Club is currently working with Council to obtain approval for use of an alternative launch site within the Park and until such time as this is approved there is no approved site in the Park for paragliding.
The launch area is now quite small, whilst it is fine to launch in a northerly, launching from beside the path in a northeasly direction is not feasible.
This site is located at the southern end of Long Bay, access near a pedestrian walk way from the end of Cliff road, Torbay.
The designated landing area if you are going to land on the beach is between the cliffs and the boat ramp. Be particularly aware of crowding of the beach during the summer months.
Our continued presence at this site is constantly under challenge as residential building continues to encroach, plus installation of fencing along the cliff edge and walkway. We are now restricted to only the use of the very cliff edge and public walkway. It is very much in our best interest to maintain good relationships with the immediate neighbours surrounding the launch area.
PG.: If there is a likelihood of a wind shift to the north whilst you are flying be particularly aware this possibility would result in difficulty in returning to the launch area with reduced lift and very little land out option if other than low tide. This is particularly relevant on sea breeze days.
When scratching close to the cliff take particular note of the over hanging branches of the large pine tree in the apex of Toroa point - several pilots have received an additional adrenaline fix from catching tip lines on its branches when they have risen sharply in lift under the pine tree.
This site is located within VFR Transit lane T157 with a height restriction of 1000ft A.S.L. Flying is only permitted on the seaward side of the cliffs, the landward side being Whenuapai controlled airspace.
1999 paraglider pilot Jeff Ripley flew from here to Milford Beach and Lyn Watkins to Torbay.
This is Aucklands main PG training site, owing to the spacious take off area, gentle cliff, and good landing options.
Click on the image to open Live weather data for Karioitahi
Access through the farm property is restricted, refer to comments under General Information. Access to the site is via Karioitahi Beach with approximately 8 kilometre drive south along the beach.
Landing zone is on the beach in front of take-off and is large, especially at low tide.
It is preferred not to generally advertise the exact location of this site other than that it is south of Karioitahi.
Until recently the site owner only permitted use of this site for the occasionally club fly in. The owner will not give consent for the sites general open use and, because of very few access points to this isolated coast line, the owner is under constant pressure by many common interest groups to provide more frequent entry. He does not like to be bothered much by the public and has on occasion withdrawn consent to some users. Accordingly the site is to be treated with respect and access obtained by the beach rather than from the road, via the owners property.
Caution should be taken driving vehicles on the beach other than over the low tide period or well above high tide mark. The mid-tide area can be treacherous terrain, and vehicles can easily get stuck.
The site is heavily used for PG training. Please take care when flying in front of the launch site, as most PGs flying in this area will be unrated beginners under instruction. (Students under instruction should be flying with red or orange streamers attached to the harness.)
Please be courteous and keep clear of the area directly in front of the launch, and let that space be used by the schools and their students.
Air-space restrictions are the same as Karioitahi - refer to the air-space comments on Karioitahi.
Hang glider pilot Ian Clark flew 54km to Miranda, January 1998.
Take State Highway 1 via Wellsford and Te Hana, the turn off is 2 kilometres north of Te Hana, from there follow sign posts for Mangawhai Heads, distance 26 kilometres.
From the Mangawhai Heads car park the track accessing launch starts from the white concrete tank above the public toilets. Launch site is 160 metres northwards on a rounded crown 160 feet above the beach.
Council requirements prohibit landing on the public area of beach 300 metres in front of the Surf Lifesaving Club when any public are in this area. The area South of the rivermouth, and including the dunes, is a protected Bird Sanctuary, off limits, apart from during the off season and, with the express permission of the Department of the Conservation some access may be obtained. Unauthorised vehicles and equipment may be confiscated by the Department of Conservation.
No access is permitted through Bream Tail farm, and the farmer here is hostile to pilots using his property.
Particular care should be taken with flammables, no cigarettes should be taken onto this site as there is a high fire risk in summer. In 1982 a large fire started in the area of the lower dunes and swept through the entire area and into where many residences now exist.
Should the wind be off to the south, care should be taken to double check direction as it often has the appearance of flowing directly up the face when in fact placement of a wind sock on the beach, will confirm the wind is very cross and is flowing around the corner of the ridge to the South.
Flight ceiling is 6,500 foot A.S.L.
A pleasant alternative to the Easterly site at the end of the peninsula. Best flown in an ESE direction.
A public reserve located in Tiri road in between houses 75 & 77.
Either the SW end of Matakatia Bay or top landing at TO.
Nil landing below TO when tide is in. Overhanging Pohutukawa trees.
Flight ceiling is 2,500 ft ASL.
This is Auckland's finest cross country site with many good cross country flights having been made, and great promise for more.
Click on the image to open a page with the Live Weather data from Moir Hill
Access to this site is 6 kilometres north of the Puhoi turn off on State highway 1. Turn left into Moirs Hill road, adjacent to the rest area at the end of Windy ridge. Follow this gravel road to 300m past the Transmitter Tower and park near the walking gate, with a DOC sign 'Waihunga/Moir Hill'. Access from this point is by foot through the gate, following the track to the end for another Km or so. Take-off is at 980 feet A.S.L, 800 foot above the landing paddock.
Because of concerns around the spread of kauri dieback disease, pilots are asked to ensure that footwear is clean and free of visible soil before entering the track. Please keep to the track and do not make any side detours into the surrounding bush. More information about preventing the spread of kauri dieback can be found here: http://www.kauridieback.co.nz/prevention
Landing requires careful consideration being in a valley with the wind usually coming from West. If it's coming from E it is definitely not flyable there. An air-craft type landing circuit approach is strongly recommended to determine the wind direction in the bottom of the valley (often different from the wind on launch).
Top landing on take-off is possible although very tight for hang gliders and often quite thermic possing difficulty for paragliders. An alternative top landing is available to the West of the Transmitter Tower requiring a minimum of 600 feet above take-off before making an approach. It is behind the bushline and can be turblulent.
If the wind is W, it can be quite rough at times.
Take-off (TO) is located below class C controlled airspace and within GAA's NZG151 and NZG152. Flight ceiling immediately above launch is 3,500 foot ASL, or 4500ft upon opening NZG 152 MOIR HILL. Ceiling rises to 4,500 feet as you cross Woodcocks road, heading in a north or north easterly direction. When heading north beware of aircraft on circuit to Kaipara Flats Airfield 7km directly north of Moirs.
Further north the ceiling rises to 6500ft in an arc from Wellsford to Leigh.
Heading south across the valley past Ahuroa road is within NZG151 and North Shore air-field training space with a flight ceiling of 3,500 feet.
Please open airspace 'NZG 152 MOIR HILL' by phoning Air Traffic Control Duty manager 03 3581694. Indetify yourself with your NZHGPA PIN. Remember to close Airspace by setting a time or auto-deactivate by Civil Evening Twilight. Or, if everyone is done flying, call again to let them know NZG152 can be closed again. This shows good airmanship.
Hang glider pilots have flown cross wind to Orewa, North to Matakana, Leigh, Pakiri, Te Hana, Mangawhai, and Kawakawa.
Paraglider pilots have regularly been to Matakana, Leigh and Wellsford with Lyn Watkins first reaching Te Arai Point 35.5km. The record was next broken in December 1997 by Eva Keims flight to Mangawhai 41.4km. Eva's record was finally broken by Jeff Ripley in 2006, with a flight of 46.8km landing just north of Mangawhai Heads. In Feb 2011 Jeff extended the record by 1.6km to make it 48.4km, landing at Langs Beach. The distance was steadily increased beyond 50km by Evan Lamberton, Eva and Jeff until in Oct 2015 Evan Lamberton flew 67.2km, landing just south of Marsden Point to take the current record.
Kawau and Moturekareka islands were also reached in 2005 by a crazy PG pilot.
A vocanic cone smack in the middle of suburbia, an MBZ and with limited landing options. (Who's still keen to go?)
Access to this site is off of the Ellerslie Panmure Highway, take Mountain road and then Memorial drive which leads to the top.
Top or slope landings are the prefered option, otherwise there is a small paddock at the base of the mountain on the southern side near the start of the Mountain Rd.
Being located on the narrow lip of a volcano any mistake causing you to be dragged backward is very unforgiving. The landing possibilities at the foot of the hill are limited being a very small short paddock surrounded by trees and power lines. Top or slope landing is not easy. This site is suitable for skilled advanced pilots only and much better friendlier sites exist for the same wind direction.
This site is located within CTA/C and is located within the Auckland City Mandatory Broadcast Zone with height restriction of 1500ft ASL. i.e. unless you are flying with an airband radio and able to broadcast your presence every ten minutes you shouldn't be in this airspace!
In the old days at least one Hangglider flew from here across the harbour landing at Narrow Neck Beach?
This site is located at Bombay south of Auckland, with access being obtained off of State Highway 2, access road approx. 5km SE of Bombay off ramp. The top of Mt William is not particularly suitable as a P.G. launch as the terrain is quite steep and rocky. The recommended take off is approx. 200m south of and below the trig on a flat grassed outcrop over the fence to the east of the walkway. The site is on a Scenic reserve which is operated as a farm. Access is by walking track from either Puketutu Road at the top or McMillan Road at the bottom.
Trig 1 ,240ft ASL, P.G. Takeoff approx. 1 ,056ft ASL.
The site below take off is mostly bush. Ensure conditions are good enough (and your competency) to reach clear ground.
This site is located in GAA G275 with a height restriction of 4,500ft ASL. The area just north of Puketutu is GAA G276 with a height restriction of 3,500ft ASL but able to be opened to 4,500ft ASL by notifying ATC. Refer to comments on Airspace in the front of this guide.
There are three separate flying sites in this area: the North West Face, Maori Bay, and a private take-off to the south.
An online weather station providing data on wind strength and direction for all Muriwai sites can be accessed here:
Maori Bay take-off height is 80 - 100ft.
Landing on take off, or on the beach below. Avoid landing on the road or carpark, it is likely to incur the Rangers displeasure, apart from the possibility of danger to pilot and public.
Landing on the beach to the North is prohibited in peak season, December through to February.
Over-flying of the gannet colony on the tip of Otakamiro Point is prohibited and care should be taken to not to disturb the gannets, particularly during the months of August, September and October.
Take-off and landing on the right hand shoulder of the bowl on the southern side of Otakamiro Point i.e to the right of the Maori Bay carpark is prohibited (as this is tapu area).
Being part of the Regional Park care again needs to be taken of vegetation etc. and, when landing on the beach consideration of other beach users is required. The Regional park rules under which we are permitted to use the site ban commercial operation (tandems, schools, teaching etc ) unless a specific concession has been granted.
This is a site well used by pilots and public and often there is need to be considerate and rotate the number of people in the air at any one time.
A resident of the area has expressed concern about pilots overflying their property. Avoid over flying the propery indicated on the aerial below. Treat the area in front of this property purely as a transit area, gaining height before it and not dwelling in front of it.
Beware of the increased compression in higher winds when endeavouring to top land close to the carpark. Take note that NW and S winds both tend to funnel up the face of Maori Bay when in fact they are often too cross to safely fly. When attempting to fly south and get above the cliffs beware of the possibility of turbulence off the southern point.
Paraglider and Hang glider pilots are not the only users of these Muriwai sites and you need to remain alert for the possibility of radio controlled model aircraft - their operators perceptions of your height and speed are not always that accurate.
The same air space restrictions apply to all sites at Muriwai being located in VFR Transit Lane T156 with height ceiling of 1500 feet A.S.L, and closed airspace inland. The Transit Lane goes up to High Water mark, so anything beyond that is Class D Controlled Airspace, and MBZ.
Several paraglider pilots have had unscheduled landings in the back of the carpark and beyond as a result of increased wind strength and compression.
There are three separate flying sites in this area: the North West Face, Maori Bay, and a private take-off to the south.
An online weather station providing data on wind strength and direction for all Muriwai sites can be accessed here:
This is a particularly enjoyable small site and, owing to its very public profile, care should be taken to not to create any bad impressions of the sport. Scratching close to the pohutakawa trees tends to cause anxiety in the general public and to the park rangers and therefore should be avoided.
Muriwai is reached by taking State highway 16 out of Auckland to Waimauku and then turning left following the signs to Muriwai beach.
The North west site described as 'The North West face' is in fact the north westerly facing section of Otakmiro point which is located at the southern end of Muriwai beach, adjacent to the main lower carpark.
Access to this site closed from 1997 to 1999 and permission regained with specific access paths being approved. Access may be obtained from the lower public carpark by taking the track commencing opposite the toilets and following the ridge to the right as it climbs sharply to the top. Alternatively access may be obtained by parking vehicles in the Maori Bay public carpark and walking back down to where the track enters the bush on the left. The access track commences immediately opposite this gravelled area, entering through the bush to the top of the ridge. Check with local pilots tor access update before flying.
Whilst the upper launch has been closed a lower launch has been used which is further to the west in a low bowl where the track from the main Muriwal Beach turns 90 from the cliff and leads up to the look outs over the gannet colony.
No landing or glider handling is permitted on the dunes in front of the north west face, and landing on the beach is restricted during the period December to February when the portion of the beach below the north west face is closed to vehicle traffic to 500 metre north of Motutara Road.
Being part of the Regional Park care again needs to be taken of vegetation etc. and, when landing on the beach consideration of other beach users is required. The Regional park rules under which we are permitted to use the site ban commercial operation (tandems, schools, teaching etc ) unless a specific concession has been granted.
On no account is any other portion of the Pennisula other than North westerly face to be used as a launch site nor access obtained. In particular the previously used access track directly above the public carpark area of Maori bay is closed owing to discovery of Maori remains in this area.
Over-flying of the gannet colony located on the western tip of Otakamiro Point is prohibited, the boundary to be observed being the public walking track and observation points.
The lower take-off is rated PG2 + 60 hours.
Be aware during landing on the beach of movement of vehicles (this is a public road), take care particularly in summer when a large number of beach users are in the area. Landing on the golf course is not permitted and, landing in the lower carpark is not recommended. Beware of helicopters operating from the heli pad located behind the Surf Club.
Paraglider and Hang glider pilots are not the only users of these Muriwai sites and you need to remain alert for the possibility of radio controlled models whose-operators perceptions of your height and speed are not always that accurate.
If using the lower take off be careful to check the wind is square in and that there is enough beach available to land on the event of not achieving sufficient lift. This is a particularly tricky site as any cross wind carries you immediately against the trees and launch is so low that if you don't get lift on the first pass then you have no option but to land.
All of the Muriwal flying sites are located within VFR Transit Lane T156 with a ceiling of 1500 foot A.S.L., and no access to airspace behind the cliffs (Class D Controlled air-space, and MBZ).
There are three separate flying sites in this area: the North West Face, Maori Bay, and a private take off to the south.
An online weather station providing data on wind strength and direction for all Muriwai sites can be accessed here:
This ramp is located on private property at the end of Ngatira Rd.
HG.: No bottom landing, you have to be able to achieve enough height to reach Muriwai Beach.
31 March 2016
The new owners have experienced issues over members of the public accessing the site, leaving rubbish behind and being less than polite when challenged over their presence on the property. As a result the owners have installed security gates across the driveway and pedestrian access. They have provided the club an access code for the pedestrian gate and are comfortable with club members using the site provided it is respected. As this website is quite widely accessed the Club committee meeting of March decided it was best that the access code was available from the site monitor rather than it being published here.
Having recently met with the new owners they have confirmed that they are happy for the previous arrangements over access by Club members to continue and for the Club's weather station to remain in its current location. The owners currently intend to use it mostly themselves, they will be there from time to time so if you enter the property and there is someone at the house please do introduce yourselves. Having confirmed the access issues arrangements are being made to replace the windsock mounting pole with a longer length plus fit another windsock. Any queries on this site call Tony Seaman on 0274 933 023.
25 September 2015
This property has been sold with new owners taking possession shortly. Arrangements are in place for introduction to the new owners so the Club can confirm whether the new owners are happy for pilots to continue to use this site. Until the new owners have confirmed they are happy for pilots to continue to use the site please avoid using the site.
This is a private site available on only a limited number of occasions by obtaining permission from the owner. The owner is quite comfortable with our presence provided we have sought his permission first. However he has emphasised that he does not want to receive lots of phone calls and has therefore asked requests be made through site monitors.
The same air space restrictions apply to all sites at Muriwai being located in VFR Transit Lane T156 with height ceiling of 1500 feet A.S.L, and closed airspace inland. The Transit Lane goes up to High Water mark, so anything beyiond that is Class D Controlled Airspace, and MBZ.
A seldom flown site but worth the effort when the wind is ENE. Flights can be made to Eastern Beach and back on a good day.
This site is located 3 kilometres North of Eastern Beach and adjacent to the Howick golf course. Take-off is at the end of Musick Point Road in the reserve beside the carpark. Walk S from the carpark approx 40m, this is the old launch site with the Pohutakawas directly behind and almost above you. It is possible to launch here but not recommended. The better launch is another 20m further along just inside the golf course. There are no trees behind to get caught up in here.
There is no bottom landing at all 2 hours either side of high tide. There are stairs at the end of the point for easy access back up to launch.
The gate at the beginning of the Reserve/Golf course is locked each evening. The exact time of closing is indicated on a sign board at the gate.
Take-off height is 80 foot A.S.L. Be sure of wind direction as trees on launch can redirect wind flow, the true direction should be taken from the wind lines on the water.
A Hang glider pilot has reached a altitude of 800 foot A.S.L.
A particularly pleasant site to fly, with nice views over the city as well as the Hauraki Gulf.
There are designated Launch & Top Landing areas:
In N-NE winds the take off is the grassy area above the lower carpark, above North Battery.
In E-SE winds the take off is on the summit, on the slope in front of the Fire Command Post, the concrete building right at the summit.
North Head is located on the Northern side of Auckland Harbour, on the tip of the Devonport peninsula. Access is off Takarunga Road, Cheltenham.
In a North to Easterly, either top land or make it an easy glide to Cheltenham Beach. (At high tide there is not a lot of beach available though)
In an East to Southeast, top landing is the favoured option owing to minimal bombout options at the bottom at all tide levels. If you have enough height you can glide downwind to the midway part of Cheltenham Beach to escape the rotor behind the ridge at the southern end of Cheltenham Beach.
As of January 18th 2019, Maungauika/North Head is adminsted by the Tupuna Maunga Authority, and is no longer DOC managed. The Club has lobbied for our continued presence and activities, but the future of flying at North Head may be uncertain. The Management Plan mentions 'may allow flying', but this is no guarantee that it will continue to be so.
Therefor, it is still of the utmost importance that all flying here displays exemplary behaviour, and all care must be taken to not display flying in a way that can be used as reasons to shut down all flying activity.
A maximum of four gliders in the air at a time. Designated launch and landing points only to be used. Pilots to respect rights of other users and keep launch areas clear of gliders and gear.
The Northern side realistically only allows three gliders at any one time, and only if one glider soars the back rige. Also, the site can get busy, so a rotation system of flying is in place generally.
Particular care needs to be taken when launching and scratching close to the Pohutakawa trees. Constant observation of wind direction changes to prevent being caught away from land out options. As with all coastal sites, maintain en eye on the water in the distance to anticipate any changes in wind strength. And have your speedbar ready for use!
Particular care needs to be taken both on launching and landing owing to the large number of spectators and public present. Care needs to be taken in landing on the beach with large numbers of other beach users being present on a nice day.
This site is located within VFR common frequency zone with height ceiling of 2,500 feet. It is also on the boundary of the Mandatory Broadcast Zone, which means that you can not fly past the big gun at the Southern side of the Head (unless equipped with radio!)
On 17.01.04 Jeff Ripley flew to Takapuna Beach after reaching approx 800ft.
This is a Waikato Club site.
The Paeroas is the North Islands premier flying site and has been used for several HG and PG Nationals. As well as being a fantastic cross country site, many students have experienced their first high thermic flights here then enjoyed the incredible restitution at the end of the day.
At 2950 ft (900 m) it is the highest in the North Island. The height from top to bottom is 1650 ft (500m). There is enough room for several gliders to be laid out to be line checked and for two gliders to be launched at the same time.
The Waikato Club operates a weatherstation on launch:
The site is aprox 30km South of Rotorua and can only be accessed by paid up affiliated NZHGPA members familiar with the site protocol.
The paddocks on the hill side of the road in front of launch and slightly to the right. If the schools are operating there will be a wind sock on the fence beside the road. Be aware of the power lines on the opposite side of the road. The drive from the bottom to the top takes about 35 Minutes.
If you think you might be using this landing please phone the owners, Sheryll and Steve, on (07) 333 1543 beforehand to let them know. You can leave a message on the machine.
The access is through private farmland and only 4WD vehicles are permitted. All first time pilots must be accompanied by an affiliated NZHGPA member familiar with the site protocol. Please try to minimise the number of vehicles going up so as to minimise damage to the road and because there is limited parking near launch.
All drivers must enter their vehicle registration plate number and time of entry into the book at the entrance to the farm (first gate). An exit time is also required to be logged when leaving the site.
There are 2 locked gates on the access road. These can only be unlocked by an affiliated NZHGPA member familiar with the site protocol.
Please keep speed to a minimum to reduce dust especially near the houses at the start of the farm. Max road speed is 30km / hr, many places are less to help prevent the likelihood of a collision on the narrow winding road to launch.
A lock has been fitted by Kordia above the midway landing paddocks. This gate is to be closed and locked every time a vehicle or group of vehicles pass through.
To raise the airspace from 4,500ft to 5,500ft the Airspace duty officer in Christchurch needs to be contacted. If you are using a land line phone 0800 626 756 or a mobile phone 0900 62 675 and ask for G459 to be opened and automatically deactivated at CET. If all flying finishes before CET then contact the duty officer and de-activate area G459, this shows responsible use of the airspace. This should be done every time someone flies to ensure the airspace does not get taken away due to lack of use. Consult and or fly with an airspace map unless you have the boundaries set into your GPS.
HG: Past Rangitaiki pub to where the tiger country starts and back to land at the pub. Numerous pilots have achieved this over the years.
PG: The longest verified open distance flight is by Evan Lamberton who overflew goal during the 2010 Nationals and landed near the Napier Taupo Rd recording a distance of 67.0km.
The out and return record set by Ken Jackson in 2004 of 22.4km was extended to 23.0km by Jeff Ripley in April 2011 and again to 27.0km Jan 2013.
There have been no proper FAI triangle flights submited yet with a closed track. This could be a good challenge for someone!
Pakiri Site use by PG & HG
Several years ago, after this site was incorporated into the Regional Parks and the site closed, I had a series of meetings followed up by written submissions, which eventually led to Auckland Council agreeing to our again using this site, despite the Council having no Concept Management Plan in place to cover the parkland at Pakiri..
At the time this permission was granted for paraglider pilots only as hang glider pilots had negotiated use of a launch located on private farmland further to the east.
Over the last winter the hang glider launch has been rendered unuseable by slips and relocation of a fence. Les Graham advised that the hang gliders had identified a suitable alternative adjacent to and in front of the PG launch. Given the very specific terms of the previous permission I have been back in touch with the Council and have now been successful in extending the permission to include HG, again subject to the conditions previously stipulated i.e:
1) Vehicles must be parked outside the gate at the end of M Greenwood Road, and access to the site is by foot only. (so short carry in for HG).
2) Numbers using the site at any one time to be lower than 15.
3) Permission to remain in place until the planning process is complete, provided conditions are adhered to.
4) Any organised event where numbers of participants are higher than 15 must be approved under the Discretionary Use Process (requires submitting proposals at least four weeks prior to organising such an event).
5) The clipping back of over long kikuyu grass is fine, provided no area is left prone to erosion.
The picture above shows the two launch sites and where vehicles are to be parked etc. The attached map indicates in read where the boundries of the Auckland Regional Park are near our take offs (there is more park land West of Greenwood Road).
With the two sites being close, one almost in front of the other but slightly offset, in the rare event of both PG & HG operating at same time there will need to be some close liaison between pilots over launch procedure on the day.
Tony Seaman
Sites Liaison
Mob 0274 933023
Site is located approximately 8 kilometres North West of Leigh. Take State Hightway 1 to Warkworth, turn right at the HillStree intersection and follow the sign posts to Leigh. In Leigh, turn left to the Fire Station and follow the road for about six kilometres up the large hill. Once at the top, and about 700 etres after view of Pakiri beach to the north, turn right into M Greenwood Road and drive to the end of the road to park by the gates.
Use the gate to your right and walk a few meters downhills to the site. The location is easy to see on the photo.
Particular restrictions owing to seasonal farming requirements maybe imposed by the farmer, reference to be made to the site monitor betore considering flying this site.
MAIN T.O(NE) 600ft asl, is top-landable in light winds. Beware of a long thin wire suspended directly in front of and below TO. In some conditions this wire is invisible. In NE winds the north bowl produces severe vertical rotor up to 800ft asl between the NE lying ridge-spine and the first Macrocarpa tree. Similarly the spine further to the N-W has busted three legs. Often the lift band is very wide (when baroipressure is below 1015- hPa and when a reasonable wind is present), but sometimes in very fine hot weather under light-wind conditions, it is not. Many accidents (one near fatal) have occurred when novice pilots have failed to reach the beach (by landing on rocks or in the sea). The danger signs are; warm/hot temperatures, high barometric pressure, light wind strength, and inexperienced pilots. Instructors are cautioned about being duped by fine conditions such as >20-deg C;>1020 hPa, <12 kts. + Novis).
NORTHERN BOWL T.O.(NE-N). Often the safest TO. but requires humping the hanging gliders, 400m and over a style onto the cattlels hill-top toilet. This TO. is also excellent for high glides to the beach and is best when the wind is off to the north. Low air-time pilots should also be cautious under northerly conditions about flying southwards to the main face or the big Eastern bowl as they usually do not make it back to a safe L.Z.
THE MAIN L.Z. is 1.5 kms north along sandy Pakiri Beach at the gap before the river, the Pakiri Maori Trust own this area, including the locked gate exiting the beach. They have spent about $56,000 trying to stabilise the dunes, only to have these efforts wrecked by the public and bikes. Respect their feelings. An alternative L.Z. is the cricket domain behind the beach. Pakiri is one of the nicest coastal sites in the NI. but over the years the farmers have tolerated some ignorant behaviour by a few pilots. Despite this they have been exceptionally hospitable, so please treat them considerately.
Height ceiling is 6,500 foot A.S.L.
February 1994 Dennis Marett, Hang glider pilot, recorded best distance from take-off here, 36.2 nautical miles into the Auckland Domain, compliments of the Westpac Helicopter Service. Tommy Naimis, and Brian Skellern, Hang glider pilots both got lost in clouds and found trees in the sky! (Tommy survived this but later got knifed in Katmandu)
Piha is located on the West Coast of Auckland. From Titirangi, follow the signs to Piha. On reaching the beach drive to the northern end, park the vehicle and walk some 300 metres along the beach before taking a signposted track signposted Whites Beach. Climb the hill, arriving at the top of the ridge, turn right and proceed to the first bach. Take off is on part of the property belonging to this bach.
Launch height for the northern site is 270ft A.S.L. For experienced pilots it is possible to fly South from Piha to the Manukau Heads and north to Muriwai.
Lots of room on the beach.
The northern site is on private property and is sensitive, permission needs to be obtained from the bach owners prior to flying and should preferably be made through site monitor.
Be aware of the possibility of the wind swinging to the West as this creates turbulence over the headland to the North of the launch site.
Lion Rock, located in the middle of Piha Beach denotes the border of Whenuapai controlled airspace and VFR Transit Lane T156. Height ceiling to the north of Lion Rock, ie. over the northern takeoff, is 1,500 feet, height ceiling to the south of Lion Rock is 2,500 feet.
On arriving at Piha turn left off Piha Road into Ahuahu Raod and then into-Log Race Road at the top of Piha Hill, and drive to the end of the road and loop car park. Take the Mercer walking track (to the right as you arrive) on the northern side of the carpark, proceed 150 metres or so until you reach a right-and turn and a wooden seat and a glimpse of the Tasman Sea. Immediately to the left through the gap and the scrub is the launch site. Launch height for the southern site is 800 feet A.S.L. For experienced pilots it is possible to fly South from Piha to the Manukau Heads and north to Muriwai.
Note: Although this site appears deceptively safe, it gets rotor if the wind is more than about 15 degrees south of straight in. Symptoms are gust/calm cycles (instead of a steady wind flow). DO NOT launch under such conditions. The site is exposed, so is not recommended for wind speed exceeding 15 knots. I recommend that you do not fly at this site alone, but go with another pilot/driver.
See safety video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHSDBuZyAIY
Be aware launch is located in situation which is often in rotor from ridge and left. It is a very long glide out to landing on the beach.
Lion Rock, located in the middle of Piha Beach denotes the border of Whenuapai controlled airspace and VFR Transit Lane T156. Height ceiling to the north of Lion Rock, ie. over the northern takeoff, is 1,500 feet, height ceiling to the south of Lion Rock is 2,500 feet.
This site is located on the West Coast on the southern side of the Waikato River. Take the motorway south from Auckland to the Bombay Hills, follow the signposts to Tuakau, and from there the signposts to Port Waikato and Sunset Beach. On arrival at Sunset Beach there is a grassed area to the left of the toilet block and, on the southern side of this grassed area a private driveway access and little bridge across a small creek. Pass beyond the small bridge and you will find the obscure beginnings of the track which runs up through toitoi bushes and along the ridge heading south from the beach.
Hang gliders have previously used a launch located a short way along this track. This small launch area is on the edge of the cliff and is unsuitable for paragliders. The second top takeoff point is further up the same track where it exits the bush onto a large rounded hilltop.
On strong days it is also possible to launch from the sand dunes immediately in front of the cliffs to the left of the carpark and beach entrance area.
The takeoff heights are: Lower take off 100 feet A.S.L; Top takeoff 300 feet A.S.L.
At high tide the amount of beach available for landing can be restricted, requiring care and planning of landings. Take care to land on the beach outside of the flagged swimming area and summer crowds.
Take care when soaring in the bowl to the south of the top takeoff as switches in wind direction can result in one or other side of this bowl being in rotor.
For HG the rating for the dunes is beginner, from the lower slope Intermediate + cliff launch + 15 hrs, from the top launch novice.
The lower launch takes a W to NW wind only.
This site is located just within the boundary of CTA/C with a height restriction of 2,500 feet.
Puketutu is located on the Bombay Hills, south of Auckland. Take the southern motorway to Bombay, turn left at Bombay exit off the motorway, left, right and onto road signposted to Paparata. Take the second on the right then the first turning left into Main Road. Access to the site is on the right several hundred metres down Main Road through a farm gate. Access to the NW launch ( and a short walk around to the NE launch) can be gained by following the signs to Mt William walkway at the end of Puketutu Rd.
Launch height is 1,230 feet A.S.L., 450 feet A.G.L.
This site consists of a series of spurs, gullies and it is without easy bottom landing options. Recent plantings of olive trees have reduced the options even further. The surrounding hills are decorated with a variety of transmitter towers, aerials and suspended wires.
The landowner on which this site is located has requested that the number of people (pilots and non-flyers) be kept to a minimum (six people pilots and spectators at most) and that vehicular use is limited. No flying is to be carried out if there is a lot of stock on the flying face.
The owner of this site is Jim Ball, phone 09-236 0515 or 025-934 571. The owner's permission must always be obtained and it is preferable that the request is made through the site monitors.
As at December 1997 there is a padlock on the access gate off the road as uninvited 'hoons' have become a problem. Contact the site monitors for access.
The site is shallow and has not got a very soarable face, particularly for hang gliders. Take note of the towers and wires.
This site is located in GAA G275 with a height restriction of 4,500ft ASL. The area just north of Puketutu is GAA G276 with a height restriction of 3,500ft ASL but able to be opened to 4,500ft ASL by notifying ATC. Refer to comments in the front of this guide under heading of airspace.
Hang gliderpilot Steve Elliot flew 128 kilometres from this site in 1995.
Paraglider pilot Jeff Ripley flew 64.2km from here on 21 Nov 2008 setting a new site record.
This site used to be used for for early HG training, but now it is mainly used for PG in stronger conditions.
It is possible for HG and PG to soar the entire length of the dunes. (The dunes are quite low in most places)
This site is located part way up Muriwai Beach on the West Coast north of Auckland. Approximately 55 Km north west of the city centre. Take State Highway 16 from the Northwestern Motorway and follow this highway almost to Helensville, Rimmer Road being several kilometres before Helensville on the left. Take Rimmer Road out through Woodhill Forest to the parking area just before the dunes. Access to the beach is for 4WD territory. The official takeoff is approximately 30 metres to the north on the sand dunes, but most of the length of the dunes have suitable launches as well.
On the beach!
Woodhill Forest is in private ownership of Ng?ti Wh?tua o Kaipara.
Access over Rimmer Road is via a public easement. Ng?ti Wh?tua o Kaipara retains the rights to close the road at certain times, so always check and respect any landowner decrees.
The section from the end of Rimmer Road over the dunes is also in private ownership, as are the dunes itself. No access to other parts of the forest.
Please respect the dunes, and only take off from the official TO, and don't damage the fragile dune system
For more info on access conditions, see: http://www.woodhillforest.co.nz/forest-notices/
Remember, the sand is only soft untill you hit it hard!
Don't get blown back over the dunes.
Don't damage the fragile dune ecosystem.
Rimmer Road is within CTA/C with a flight ceiling of 2,500ft ASL. Stay below this ceiling!Â
All of the other Muriwai flying sites are located within VFR Transit Lane T156Â with a ceiling of 1500 foot A.S.L., and no access to airspace behind the cliffs (Whenuapai controlled airspace).
Several H.G. pilots have successfully soared back to Muriwai (and several PG. pilots have soared from Muriwai to here and back).
This site is located on the coastal edge of Takapuna Grammar School grounds, accessed from Winscombe Road, Belmont.
Take off is behind a fence, and requires a bit of skill. Wind may be flowing either from left or right. For PG, glider needs to be laid out perpendicular to the fence, and when pulled up turned into wind. A quick run towards the fence with a tug on the brakes to generate lift should get you over and flying.
Landing options below the cliff are restricted and virtually nil at high tide. Best landing option (short of Takapuna beach) is at the bottom of the cliff 200m to the north of launch, or on Narrow Neck Beach, if the wind is at all from the north east.
No flying is to take place on this site during school hours.
Top landings at this site should be treated with caution owing to presence of sometimes severe rotor (even the locals are cautious of this one).
Launching over the post and rail fence along the cliff top requires care on the part of paraglider pilots - ensure that you have sufficient lift to clear the rail or abort the takeoff.
Don't hang around talking to the naked guys if you land on the beach, just pack and run....(stairs are to the south of launch).
This site is located within VFR operations special procedure area, with height ceiling of 2,500 ft A.S.L. to the North and to the South, reducing to 1,000 ft A.S.L. at the start of Takapuna beach for the VFR Transit lane T157.
An easy run to Takapuna beach to the north. To the south Cheltenham Beach has been reached once. Who can make the link to North Head?
Update 02.04.2017...Yes he did it again, Jeff Ripley flew from Takapuna Grammar, and landed on North Head.
Several gliders have been in the tide here including a tandem. One pilot (lets just call him Matt) has even flown backwards down the cliff, ending up in a heap at the bottom. Fortunately he walked away from it.
This is a very enjoyable area offering a marine reserve, fine sandy beaches, interesting swimming and barbecue places.
Tawharanui Regional Park is located on Takatu Peninsula, 90 kilometres north of Auckland. Take State Highway 1 to Warkworth, turn right onto the Leigh Road and drive through Matakana a few kilometres before turning right following roads signposted Omaha, Takatu Peninsula and Tawharanui Regional Park. Continue to the park at the end of a winding metal road. Passing the rangers houses on the left as you enter the park, and a shallow lagoon on the right, park here, takeoff is on the spur between lagoon and the beach.
Takeoff height is 165 feet A.G.L.
On the beach below launch, there is limited landing at high tide. An altenative landing place is between the lagoon and car parking area.
This site has proved sensitive and took some negotiation to obtain, always check with the ranger at the first house on the left as you enter the park. Take care to observe stock.
Wind direction is SW on the southerly aspect to the hill and NNW to NNE on the other side of the hill.
Flight ceiling is 4,500 feet A.S.L.
This site is now not often flown. However since it has been taken over by the Rodney Council clearing and walkways have been created making it a very pleasant site with three launch areas each taking NE, E & SE respectively. Launch heights vary between 70ft and 100ft. The soarable ridge is quite short and suited to only two or at most three gliders at a time. When winds are strong at Mangawhai or are E of NE at Pakiri this site is likely to be ideal.
This site is located 10km south of Mangawhai Heads.
Take State Highway 1 to north of Wellsford to Te Hana, turning right just north of Te Hana following the signposts to Mangawhai. The turnoff to Te Arai Point is off this road and is signposted.
Top landings or on the beaches to the North or South of the headland.
Usual coastal considerations - always have a safe bomb out area within glide in case the conditions change.
Ceiling is 6500 ft ASL.
This site can be a little more tricky and interesting than most coastal sites. The ridge is 80km long, terrain varies significantly in parts and conditions can change over its length. The majority of the ridge is similar to Kariotahi (typically it is a little lower) but the 10+ km at each end are very different to Kario and will challenge advanced pilots. This site requires a SW wind of a similar strength to that required for Kariotahi. For the purposes of this site guide a takeoff at Te Maire Beach Rd (4km south of Glinks Gully) is assumed. This takeoff is a 200km, 2½ hour drive north of the Harbour Bridge and 25km south of Dargaville. As distances from takeoff can be significant, retrieval options are also explored below. However landing out is not that common if you keep and an eye on the conditions and don't push your luck.
Paraglider – Launching is possible at regular intervals along the ridge but degree of difficulty increases the further you fly to the south of Glinks
Hang Glider - The safest takeoff with direct public road access is Te Maire Rd. It requires a 4WD to access the takeoff, while a 2WD can make it within 400m of takeoff. It is a rounded 120ft high takeoff suitable for novice pilots and is suitable for an experienced pilot to self-launch in a firm wind. The rigging area is next to the road and is a flat grazed grassy area.
Typically the wind speed increases by a few knots at or south of the Te Maire takeoff. Wind on takeoff on any given SW day is typically 5+ knots less than at Kariotahe. More than most coastal sites it is important to keep an eye on wind lines to spot any wind strength/direction change and also for any signs of showers as you get further from takeoff. 7 day wind forecast at http://www.windfinder.com/forecast/glinks_gully and daily forecast at http://zakalwe.com/rasp/listForecasts.php?region=NZNORTH_N
Longest glider flight to the south from Te Maire takeoff is 24km where it becomes very tricky and the ridge eventually disappears into unsoarable bush. The ridge and beach gradually begin to part company just north of Glinks and by the time you are 28km south of Glinks there is a 1.5km separation between the two. At the southern end of the ridge the hills are low and wind flow is not always smooth as it makes its way across the scrub and undulating country. This increases the need to evaluate the day as you go and not just push on to a desired turn point just because of the forecast or you have flown there before. The flight is reasonably straight forward from the Te Maire takeoff to Sandy Slide (14km south where the ridge turns into a white irregular sand dune). From there onward the flying becomes very scenic but trickier.
You are likely to receive a lift from either a fishermen or hopefully a helpful flying colleague. However, unless you specifically know someone is coming for you, I suggest it is assumed there is no help coming and proceed as follows:
Assume the following:
The firm brown beach sand is a public road and trafficable with a 2WD all the way to Poutu Point in the right conditions. Where possible drive and park on the harder sand closeish to the water. If the car gets stuck in the softer sand close to the dune, let air out of your tires and dig a track out under each wheel. This section of beach is regularly travelled by fishermen, with a few cars per day in the winter and many more in the summer when the tide is lower. The beach is very driveable in the dark as there are never any rocks to the south of Glinks Gully. Plankton presents as stinky brown sludge on the beach and is much more prevalent in the winter. This smelly scourge can only be effectively removed from the underside of a car with a water blaster.
Typically the wind speed is touch lighter to the north of Glinks but can vary +/- during the flight along the northern end of the ridge.
Longest flight by a glider to the north from Te Maire takeoff is 56km. The cliffs have similar gaps and shape to Kario but are mostly a little lower. You will fly over settlements at Glinks Gully (4km – most southern settlement on the ridge), Mahuta Gap (16km) Baylys Beach (22km), Omarmari (36km) and Aranga (47km) where the spectacular 1200ft high Bluff shoots straight up out of the sea. At 1500m short of the Bluff the 120ft high ridge turns into low dunes. This gap has only been successfully crossed once from south to north by hang gliders in the 1980's from but I am unsure if it has been done on a paraglider (it may or may not be better crossing it on a paraglider?). There is further 8+ km of flyable dunes north of the Bluff. Retrieval is very difficult if landing out north of the Bluff. It is possible to takeoff from the Bluff but farmer's permission should be sought before doing so. Idle speculation has it that the Bluff could be the start of an inland XC on a summer's day if you find yourself on the Bluff early enough and are willing to fly east over Donnelly's Crossing.
Similar rules apply as above but it is usually easier to hitch a ride north of Glinks. But don't mess around, it can still take time to get back to takeoff in the wrong tide and if you have a hang glider, the joy of the return trip shouldn't be forgotten.
Assume the following:
2WD beach access is possible at Glinks, Baylys and Omarmari. The Bluff and 3 other locations are beach accessible via public road with 4WD only. Similar tidal restrictions apply for beach driving as above but beware of sporadic small outcrops of exposed rocks on this stretch of beach which very occasionally make short sections of the beach impassable.
Paraglider – Launching is possible at regular intervals along the ridge but degree of difficulty increases the further you fly to the south of Glinks Hang Glider - The safest takeoff with direct public road access is Te Maire Rd. It requires a 4WD to access the takeoff, while a 2WD can make it within 400m of takeoff. It is a rounded 120ft high takeoff suitable for novice pilots and is suitable for an experienced pilot to self-launch in a firm wind. The rigging area is next to the road and is a flat grazed grassy area.
Paraglider - there can be significant lengths of beach along the ridge where the high water mark reaches the base of the dune or cliff. Hang glider - typically requires 1½ hours away from high tide for safe beach landing at the settlements or stream inlets. Landing on the beach at Glinks Gully is a short walk to flat mown grass derigging areas. The ridge south and north of the Te Maire takeoff definitely makes for a flight of two halves.
As mentioned above.
As mentioned above, mainly tides and tricky outlanding retrieves.
Fleight ceiling is 6,500ft AMSL.
To the South the longest Hang glider flight from Te Maire takeoff is 24km and 19km by paraglider. The longest HG flight North is 56km.
There are 4 sites located at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula mostly in the Shakespear Regional Park. These sites are accessed by taking State Highway 1 to just south of Orewa and turning right, headed East to the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula following the signposts for Shakespear Regional Park. This is the site mostly flown here at Shakespear.
Here we often have nice evening lift. Wind speed and direction can be very changeable.
At the very entrance to the park, on the left, large grassy area towards the cliff top, well in front of the sign for the park. Right after the last house on the left side.
In dry conditions you can drive up to the clifftop under the Pohutukawa trees. TO is just to left side of the Pohutukawa trees, almost in front of them. There is no fence between TO and the cliff edge, just gorse.
Landing is best on the car park or on the beach in front of the car park at the Eastern end of the cliff.
Wind speed can be much higher here than at TO! Never fly too far back in stronger winds if you intend to land on or in front of the car park!
If wind gets too strong while flying, safe landing is possible in front of the cliff to the E side of TO (only at low tide) or way behind the car park on the flats in the wet land.
Free access.
TO here needs some practise. Being a cliff launch there is little wind to help inflate the canopy. In weak conditions the wing fills only when you get within about a metre of the cliff edge. In strong conditions one has to be especially careful as the wind fills the canopy suddenly, this has to be controlled, otherwise you just get lifted from the ground a few meters, swing back and collapse the wing again.
Do not fly this site if wind is coming more from the E than the NW tip of the army area you can see (this is about 30 deg. at the weather station at Tiri) bacause it gets too turbulent.
Flight ceiling is 2,500ft ASL.
Tony Turner flew from here all the way to Big Manly Beach in 2007.
There are 4 sites located at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula mostly in the Shakespear Regional Park. These sites are accessed by taking State Highway 1 to just south of Orewa and turning right, headed East to the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula following the signposts for Shakespear Regional Park.
This site is located on the crest of the hill overlooking Te Haruhi Bay, located by the gate, on the left.
This site is 180 feet A.S.L.Â
You could park at the picture frame and walk up to the ridge towards the lookout.
I have actually never seen anyone flying here, except for model planes.
Be aware of power lines to the right of your glide path and to the right of the landing area. Pohutukawa trees at the end of the landing area can be responsible for turbulence.
Flight ceiling is 2,500ft ASL.
There are 4 sites located at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula mostly in the Shakespear Regional Park. These sites are accessed by taking State Highway 1 to just south of Orewa and turning right, headed East to the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula following the signposts for Shakespear Regional Park.
This site is on the ridge immediately behind Te Haruhi Bay and is best accessed by parking in Te Haruhi Bay and taking the Tiritiri track up the hill, and at the kissing gate turning right toward TO. Or, alternatively, from the gate to the campground, walking a further 100 or so metres East along the track into the camping ground to stile across the fence below the hill on the left, and walking steeply uphill (no track).
Landing on the beach in front of the main public area at the mid and Western end of the bay is not permitted, recommended landing is on the Eastern end of the bay or in the middle paddock, often kite surfers are here, adjacent to where vehicles have been parked.
Cars need to be parked at the end of the section of roadway open to the public, and the balance of distance walked on foot. Being a relatively small face only a limited number of gliders are able to soar at the same time, no more than 2 hang gliders.
P.G.: As this site requires a reasonably strong wind to be soarable the presence of pohutukawa trees on the soaring slope and the landing areas present an increased risk of turbulence.
HG.: Similarly the presence of trees in landing areas requires particular attention.
There is now a fence built right across take off. Take off in fromt of fence is not recommended, since you eperience turbulence right after take off from the trees in fromt.
Takeoff behind fence needs to be well controlled.
Flight ceiling is 2,500ft ASL.
There are 4 sites located at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula, mostly in Shakespear Regional Park. These sites are accessed by taking State Highway, taking the Silverdale exit, turning right into Whangaparaoa Rod,all the way to the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula (followi the signposts for Shakespear Regional Park)
This site works best in Easterlies, if wind is seen to be a bit left (N) from Tiri only a small area has lift, if the wind is from the right (S) of Tiri, one has to fly around to the right from TO and catch the lift at the high cliff. Watch out for the overhanging Pohutukawas!
This site has lift often down to 10m height in front of TO.
Soaring seagulls are a good indicator for flyability here, if they are not above TO height, be careful.
This site is on the Eastern side of the headland, facing Tiri channel.
Parking before the entrance to the camping ground, then walking (12-15min) diagonal across the camping ground and up the ridge on the NE side of the camp ground.
TO site is across a fence, on the right side of a prominent Pohutukawa tree or in a bowl to the right of this, if wind is more Northerly.
This site is well suited for top landings at TO or on or in front of the rigde, within 50m behind of TO. If conditions are weak, beach landing is a good possibilty at low tide (+/-3 hrs). No bottom landing at high tide without getting wet!
See Airspace: The area to the left of this site i.e. to the north is Army operated and is NZD130. This used to be NZD126, by NOTAM, but it is permanent now. If 'Live Firing' is actually taking place, there will be Red/Orange flags flying, and you can already see those on the cliffs when you approach Shakespear from Army Bay.
The advice is to avoid danger areas. If you do enter a danger area, it will be at your own risk. If you have questions, contact NZDF (Live Firing) on (04) 529 6313 to ask about the current status of Live Firing.
Several water landings at the bottom.


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A swirl of clouds came through this afternoon.
What was so striking is that right after the clouds rolled in, that there was suddenly a flurry of birds EVERYWHERE.
Nutty woodpeckers, "humingbird feeder" (see previous post) woodpecker, chic-a-dees, lots of robins, and finally, "our" hawk even lighted on his favorite perch.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Okay, so after recently complaining that the dollar stores around here haven't gotten in any action figures since their last wave of crappy wrestlers about a year ago, here come the pirates.
Actually the toyline is officially called "Pirates!", and consists of repaints of the wrestler bodies but with new heads and the addition of a peg leg and a hook hand.
I love these, very cheap and awful. I hope they make more.
My collection so far:


text:
WASHINGTON -- With the United States government set to begin the process of defaulting on its debts on Aug. 2, according to the Treasury D...
WASHINGTON -- With the United States government set to begin the process of defaulting on its debts on Aug. 2, according to the Treasury Department, the White House is working with lawmakers on a deal to raise the nation's debt limit in exchange for major spending cuts and, potentially, revenue increases to shrink the deficit.
Leaders from both chambers and parties are meeting with the administration nearly every day to work out a deal, after meetings on July 10 bore no agreements on whether to raise revenues as part of a debt-reduction plan.
President Barack Obama gave lawmakers 10 days to come to an agreement, insisting he will call daily meetings until a deal is reached to raise the debt ceiling. The Treasury hit its debt limit -- most recently set by Congress at $14.29 trillion -- on May 16, but is using "extraordinary measures" to avoid a U.S. default for now. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner warned that failing to raise the debt ceiling would be disastrous to the economy, telling Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) in a May 13 letter that rapidly reducing federal outlays in the event of default "would likely push us into a double dip recession."
Although lawmakers could vote to raise the debt ceiling without preconditions, many members of Congress have said they will not approve an increase to the federal borrowing limit unless there is a longterm plan to deal with the debt.
Lawmakers are currently looking to build off of bipartisan talks led by Vice President Joe Biden, which fell apart in June over the issue of tax increases in a final deal. Those talks had reached agreement on about $2.4 trillion in cuts, which House Republicans have said they would now be willing to accept rather than a "grand bargain" that saves about $4 trillion.
In addition to major spending cuts, the House GOP has also pushed for major changes to Medicare -- including those laid out in Rep. Paul Ryan's (R-Wis.) 2012 budget proposal -- to be as part of a final debt ceiling deal. Although Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said in June that Medicare cuts are off the table, Democrats have since signaled they would allow for some changes to the retirement insurance program, provided they be on the delivery-side as opposed to the beneficiary side.
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) has said the lower chamber will not approve a bill that includes tax increases, a option that Democrats have insisted should be on the table. Democratic leadership is pushing for an end to subsidies and tax preferences for major oil and gas companies and individuals that make more than $500,000 per year.