From Runway to Community: Inside a Thriving Season at CHB Aero Club. July 2025

If there’s one thing that defines the CHB Aero Club, it’s momentum — in the air, on the ground, and across the community. From busy training schedules to standout events and behind-the-scenes improvements, it’s been a season full of progress, resilience, and connection.

Here’s a look at what’s been happening.

A Strong Start — Community and Events

We kicked things off reflecting on another hugely successful Child Cancer Day. These events don’t just happen — they rely on the generosity of private aircraft owners, club pilots, and volunteers who give their time and resources. It’s a reminder of how powerful this community is when it pulls together.

Not everything goes to plan in aviation, of course. The RAANZ Microlight Annual Fly-in had to be cancelled due to weather concerns across the country. Interestingly, local conditions were flyable — but as any pilot knows, it’s the bigger picture that counts.

Training Demand is Soaring

One of the biggest highlights? Training demand is the strongest it’s been in years.

Aircraft utilisation is up, with the club’s Cessna 152 logging around 30 hours per month. That level of activity is a great sign — and it’s driving investment back into the fleet. Plans are underway to refresh interiors, replace worn components, and upgrade equipment like the comms radio.

Because here’s the reality: when aircraft look after, people treat them better. And these are valuable assets that deserve it.

Investing in Reliability

Maintenance is never glamorous — but it’s critical.

Recent work on another aircraft included a major inspection and replacing problematic cowl fasteners that had been causing ongoing headaches. Fixes like this might not be visible, but they make a huge difference to reliability and safety.

Celebrating Achievement

A big congratulations goes to Mike Fitzgerald, who achieved his Private Pilot Licence just 14 months after his first flight. It’s a great example of what focused effort and clear goals can achieve.

Familiar Faces, Fresh Energy

It’s always good to see past members returning — and bringing energy with them.

Ben and Theresa Geertson are back, adding experience and enthusiasm to the club. From additional ratings to improving runway lighting infrastructure, contributions like these help lift the whole operation.

Seasonal Changes on the Airfield

Winter brings its own operational quirks.

With sheep returning to graze the airfield, procedures shift — gates, cleanliness, and runway awareness all become part of daily routines. It’s a unique feature of the club, blending aviation with rural operations.

And speaking of farming — strong cattle prices have delivered an unexpected boost. That income plays a quiet but crucial role, helping fund aircraft maintenance without pushing up flying costs for members.

Dawn Raids and Aviation Camaraderie

Few things capture the spirit of general aviation like a dawn raid.

The club’s May event saw over 60 aircraft and 80+ people gather for breakfast — despite a bit of early fog. These events are about more than flying; they’re about connection.

Members also travelled to other regional dawn raids, including Feilding and Dannevirke, where impressive turnouts and tough winter conditions made for memorable trips.

Next up: Hastings on August 3rd.

Friendly Rivalries and Club Culture

Competition is part of the fun.

The Frogley Cup and the “Bone of Contention” trophies are both currently held by neighbouring clubs — but not for long, if the team has anything to say about it. With events likely returning soon, now might be the time to start practicing those spot landings.

Lessons from the Sky

A recent in-flight experience highlighted how easy it is for small errors to become big ones.

An aircraft operating on an incorrect pressure setting was effectively flying 1000 feet off its indicated altitude — a powerful reminder of how critical basic checks like QNH are.

In aviation, attention to detail isn’t optional.

Behind the Scenes: Systems and Sustainability

While flying gets the spotlight, the committee has been hard at work strengthening the club’s foundations.

Improved systems, tighter financial controls, and updated administration processes are all part of ensuring long-term sustainability. These aren’t headline-grabbing changes — but they’re essential.

A few key reminders for members:

• Invoices reflect services used — pay them promptly

• Monthly statements show your balance — clear them by the 20th

• Membership subscriptions must be paid to maintain active status

Simple systems, but critical for keeping everything running smoothly.

Growing Against the Trend

While many clubs face declining participation, CHB Aero Club is moving in the opposite direction.

Membership is growing. Flying hours are increasing.

That success comes down to culture — what’s been described as “The Waipuk Way.” A balance of safety, enjoyment, and community that keeps people coming back — and bringing others with them.

Looking Ahead

The AGM is coming up soon, and it’s an important one.

Updates to the club constitution need approval to maintain incorporated status, and there’s also an opportunity for new committee members to step forward.

If you’ve ever thought about contributing more — now’s the time.

Final Thoughts

From aircraft upgrades to community events, training growth to operational improvements — it’s clear the club is in a strong position.

But more importantly, it’s a place where people enjoy being.

And in aviation, that’s what really keeps things flying.

“Take the spoon out of the sink.” — a reminder, perhaps, that small actions matter.