I will make the very shot hop across the mountain range to Queenstown, however the fun isn't over for me just yet, because I have secured one of the Yak-52's from the airshow display as my ride! Seeing that it was only a short trip the owners had no hesitation in letting me borrow her for a while!
And sure enough, ZK-ZAY was waiting on the apron for me as I arrived
Wanaka is eeriely quiet today as I taxi out....the stalls packed up, the grandstand taken down and the Warbirds long departed. There's not a soul in sight to cheer on my departure!
As I shoot full throttle up the runway, I truly notice Wanaka's transformation from hive of activity to peaceful tranquility.
Taking off into the morning air....I just have to turn back for one last look...
As I fly overhead all my wonderful memories of the last few days fill my mind...I almost don't want to go!
But I must be on my way....Queesntown awaits.
I make the most of my short flight....Open cockpit, wind through the hair, taking in all the sights....this is the life!
After negotiating some mountainous areas, I begin my descent into Queenstown
I get a very picturesque glimpse of NZQN and surrounds as I circle to land.
On final for Runway 5
I pass an ATR-72 of Mount Cook Airlines on my way to parking....a few of the passengers boarding the plane got a kick out of me passing by!
I shut down the Yak and lock her up....the owner will fly her home from later in the day
It seems to me that no matter what place I visit here in NZ I'm always in awe of how beautiful it all is...not to mention the great hospitality offered to me by the locals! :Thumb: Speaking of which....a nice hot breakfast awaits
