On each occasion the Bazflyers have flown their Piper Comanche ZK-BAZ beyond New Zealand shores Norfolk Island has been the first place of landing. The island, located some 800 km north west of New Zealand, is a convenient refuelling point and always a pleasant overnight stop.
The flight from Kerikeri to Norfolk Island normally involves the Bazflyers flying BAZ for a little more than 3 hours. However, due to very strong headwinds for the entire flight up to Norfolk Island, at times indicating 50 knots, the flight on this occassion took 4 hours 20 minutes. Along the way a frontal system imbedded with all sorts of nasty clouds lined the western edge of our flight path.
Another pleasant island stop-over at the Paradise Hotel before tackling the 1550 km leg direct to Gold Coast airport. Anticipated light winds avoided us on this sector as well and instead moderately strong head-winds along the entire route kept the Bazflyers in the office for almost six hours before legs could be stretched on Australian ground.
On the way north to YSNF a 10,000 ft view from the front office
From 1st July Australia assumes authority over Norfolk Island. Many 'Islanders are not happy.
BAZ in good company on the Platinum Aviation ramp at YBCG
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