Flight school Queenstown NZ?

[cooperplace]

Does anyone know of one? I'm passing thru there soon and wouldn't mind going for a flight.

My web searches lead me to phone numbers that don't work.
Thanks

[On Track]

Private message sent to you.

[Konev]

Head over to Wanaka.

[NZFlyingKiwi]

Not much going on in Queenstown outside of the scenic operators unfortunately, but as Konev says Wanaka is a good bet, or Alexandra.

[mickjoebill]

Wanaka unless you want a heli experience.

[On Track]

Actually there is still a Queenstown option, at least in the short term, as I've explained in the private message. But the eviction of the Wakatipu Aero Club from NZQN did a massive amount of damage to the flight training industry in the region. Yes, there are also options at Wanaka and Kingston.

[cooperplace]

Hi everyone,
thanks for the advice. I'll follow up with the info in the PM. I'm only keen on the Queenstown option. I've flown in and out as pax many times and I'd like to try it as pilot.

[cooperplace]

There was a lead but nothing has come of it. If anyone else knows how I can pay for a plane + instructor at ZQN, please advise. Thanks.

[On Track]

Sorry that my suggestion didn't come to anything.

My only other suggestion is to contact one of the schools at Wanaka, I'd recommend departing Wanaka for a touch and go at Queenstown followed by a trek over the mountains to Milford for a full stop and rest break, then return to Wanaka. It will cost a bit but it will be the flight of a lifetime if you've never flown in an alpine environment.

[cooperplace]

Hi On Track,

Your original suggestion has come good. I'll fly from ZQN.

Many thanks.

[On Track]

Hi cooperplace, I'm pleased to hear that. Queenstown is tricky because no flight training organisations are based there any more. However, with a bit of inside knowledge, it is sometimes possible to make things happen.

[cooperplace]

Is that the only reason ZQN is tricky?

[On Track]

Runway 14/32 can be intimidating because of the surrounding terrain. It's not possible to fly a normal circuit. Also the runway itself is very narrow and that can upset your height perception. Runway 05/23 gives you much more room to manoeuvre.

Otherwise wind shear is the main cause for concern at Queenstown, so it's best to choose a calm day.

Don't worry, you'll be in good hands. Enjoy the spectacle!

[cooperplace]

Hi OT,
thanks, that confirms my thoughts. I'm looking forward to it. Also it will be a C172, which I've never flown, but I'm familiar with the 152. I'm told it's similar.

[EatMyShorts!]

Queenstown is fun and with a SEP you have enough time for decision making and turning.

[cooperplace]

Originally Posted by EatMyShorts!

Queenstown is fun and with a SEP you have enough time for decision making and turning.

I hope so!