On Saturday 17th we visited one of the most amazing events we have ever been to here in NZ. We were lucky enough to be part of the magical show that is Wings Over Wairarapa, held in Masterton every two years. This year of course being extra special as we could take Lynn with us.
We were a little disheartened as we approached a massive queue of traffic trying to enter the venue, but within 10 minutes it had cleared and we got the most awesome parking spot. As we ventured forth we could see the planes overhead, we walked alongside others who were laden down with chilly bins and camping chairs, and we laughed at the family who's house looked onto the grounds as they sat their in the middle of the field full of cows, under a gazebo sitting on a sofa!
Just the night before we heard on the news that the show finale was cancelled, the main attraction which was a Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX had crash landed whilst on a practice run. What made it even more sad was that veteran John Pattison (who is now 91) flew this stunning machine in the war in 1945 was due to star in the finale too. However despite that he still attended the show, we smiled and waved as he drove past us in a golf buggy!
The absolute best part of the show and the most heart stopping was Doug Brooker in his Spitfire. Watch the part in the video where he flies up, stops the engine (when the smoke stops) and then free falls through the skies, starting up his engine again and roaring off into the skies again! Totally mind blowing!
Anyway, it was totally amazing, a real air show at its absolute best. Despite the wind which you will hear on the video temperatures reached a massive 31 degrees which was hard going for us all. We did all struggle at home that night to overcome our heat stroke!
So the photos and the video say it all, so if you are into planes then enjoy!
My heart and mind was with my Dad on this day. He would have loved every single moment, and so this is for you Dad, maybe next time eh?!
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| Wings Over Wairarapa 2009 |
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