NZFF Get together Omaka Airshow

[Ian Warren]

Recent release , another .. 'Once where Soldiers '

[Efliernz]

As a slight aside to the Omaka trip...

I had the pleasure of "doing lunch" on Mondays ferry with some bloke called Kermit Weeks and his #1 wood and fabric restoration man (whose name escapes me sorry...).

Kermit was actually quite "over-awed" with what NZ had to display. He is used to airshows running 3 hours maximum in the afternoon, not all day. I commented that thought that despite what was displayed at Omaka, I felt it was a little light-weight compared to other shows (no Chipmunks, large vintage DH craft, only the Strikemaster when we have L3 and Vampire machines flying) and it really made Masterton's show stand out.

Kermit is a very focused man and I could see the frustration on the face of his mtce man who constantly looks to give workable solutions to Kermit's problems - yet only Kermit knows in his head what the "master plan" (his words) were!!! Quite entertaining for me to observe...

Pete

[Ian Warren]

Pete , to meet a man like Kermit Weeks , sit back and chat , "master plan" (his words) were!!! Quite entertaining for me to observe.. ...... dose he not observe us as the world observing him for his next ... jeepers , may he had brought a B17 or a 24 out to the show i'm sure i would have been fine .

I guess he will be back to enjoy NZ ferry crossings and the InterIslander s wicked food

[Efliernz]

He loved NZ

We were on the Bluebridge ferry and I'm serious here - the service and food were great!!! I'm actually writing an appreciation letter to Bluebridge. They were very full but the great attitude from the staff is rarely witnessed these days.

We also had a very smooth crossing both ways.

As for Kermit. He is still cleaning up after the hurricane a few years ago. Only 15 flyable machines out of 40 but it is a balancing act. It is unrealistic to have all machines airworthy at the same time.

Pete