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The Kea Chronicles

Across the Pacific: Operations Manager Megan George’s Journey with our latest Daher Kodiak 100

At Glenorchy Air, every flight is a journey. Earlier this month, our Operations Manager Meagan George, embarked on a unique flight experience that took her across the vast Pacific from Hawaii to New Zealand to bring the newest addition to our fleet to Queenstown, just in time for the busy summer season. Megan was in good company with our ferry pilot John Smith. This is the 3rd aircraft John has flown from the United States to New Zealand for us – he’s been in this business for over 50 years!

Hilo International Airport
Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Kiritimati Cassidy International Airport
Kiritimati (Christmas Island)
Faleolo International Airport
Samoa
Auckland Airport
Auckland, New Zealand
Ardmore Airport
Auckland, New Zealand
Queenstown Airport
Queenstown, New Zealand

The Daher Kodiak 100: Adventure meets luxury

The Daher Kodiak 100 is designed and built for adventure. Manufactured in Sandpoint, Idaho, USA, they are built to perform in the most challenging environments. Powered by a reliable 750hp Pratt & Whitney PT6-34 engine, the Kodiak 100 excels in short takeoffs and landings. Its robust design can handle all types of terrain and its spacious cabin comfortably accommodates 9 passengers. 

 

Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, the Kodiak ensures both safety and efficiency. Whether flying over the Southern Alps of New Zealand or over the Pacific Ocean, the Kodiak 100 combines performance, durability, and versatility, making it the perfect aircraft for our operations.

"I have wanted to do a ferry flight for years - my two favourite things combined - aviation and travelling to new places. I absolutely loved it and was totally amazed I didn't see a ship or plane anywhere on all three days. I sailed across the Pacific in my pre-aviation days. Flying across it in a non-commercial jet was always a dream."

The big island of Hawaii
Departing Christmas Island
Landing on the island of Samoa
Ofolanga, Tonga
Hunga + Nuapapu, Tonga
Arriving at Auckland Airport

The Journey Across the Pacific

Megan’s journey began in the tropical skies of Hawaii, flying over remote stretches of ocean, making two stops along the way to refuel and rest. 

  • 8 October: Merced Regional Airport (MCE) → Hilo International Airport (PHTO) – 13 hours flight time
  • 9/10 October (crossing over the International Date Line): Hilo International Airport (PHTO) → Kiritimati Cassidy International Airport (PLCH) – 7 hours flight time
  • 11 October: Kiritimati Cassidy International Airport (PLCH) → Faleolo International Airport (NSFA) – 8 hours flight time
  • 12 October: Faleolo International Airport (NSFA) → Auckland Airport (NZAA) – 11 hours flight time
  • 12 October: Auckland Airport (NZAA) → Ardmore Airport (NZAR) 
  • 14 October: Ardmore Airport (NZAR) → Queenstown Airport (NZQN)
  • 15 October: Queenstown Airport (NZQN) → Wanaka Airport (NZWF)

"The logistics behind a flight involving multiple countries - all the paperwork required, immigration and refueling at each stop, accommodation, etc. is huge, but once airborne, it just becomes a glorious view of ocean and clouds. I loved it! Thanks John for doing all the important stuff and letting me tag along!"

Welcome to New Zealand

After days of flying over some of the most isolated parts of the world, Megan, John and N321KD arrived safely on New Zealand shores. Now in Wanaka at Performance Aviation, her new registration will become ZK-KDI once she receives regulatory approval shortly. Ready to adventure with us this summer? Book your flight here.

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Hear from Our Happy Customers – Mt. Cook

At Glenorchy Air, we pride ourselves on providing unforgettable scenic flight experiences over some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. But don’t just take our word for it – hear from our happy passengers! Here are some testimonials that capture the magic of flying with Glenorchy Air to Milford Sound.

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Scenic Flights
How long is this trip?

This is a Half Day experience. From check in 30 minutes before departure, to landing back at Queenstown Airport, is approximately 5 to 5 1/2 hours. Please note, this does not include time for self-driving or using our complimentary transfers. If you have plans immediately either side of your experience with us, please let us know.

What time is best to fly?

It’s always a good time to fly! If the option is there, we would suggest either our 9.00am or 1.30pm departures. Please note, our 1.30pm departure time is only available at certain times of the year. Whilst we cannot guarantee it, Milford Sound can sometimes be a little bit quieter at these times.

What should I bring?

We suggest you bring the following with you to make it a great day out:

  • Any essential medication
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera – make sure it’s fully charged
  • Warm clothing layers – you’ll want to enjoy the open-air viewing decks where it can get chilly
  • Sensible footwear
  • Bottle of water
How long is the scenic flight?

Your flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound are approximately 40 minutes each way.

How long is the cruise?

Your Nature Cruise through Milford Sound with our partners Southern Discoveries is 1 hour 45 mins.

Is food included with the cruise?

No, lunch is not included. When making your booking online, you have the option to add a picnic lunch for an additional cost that will be ready for you on the cruise. We have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available.

Complimentary tea, coffee and water is available. A selection of small snacks are available to purchase onboard. You are also welcome to bring snacks of your own.

Is there an indoor area on the cruise?

Yes, the cruise has a large indoor area with comfortable seating and tables.

What will I see on the cruise?

Your cruise through Milford Sound is on a boat with a large open-top deck and comfy interior cabins with full-height windows for optimal viewing. Take in the stunning scenery of Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Copper Point, and the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and penguins.

Is the cruise suitable for an infant?

We would say the cruise is suitable for all ages.

Is there a nappy changing facility/station available inside the cruise?

Yes, there is a nappy changing facility onboard the cruise.

What happens if the weather prevents us from flying back to Queenstown?

Our pilots will always look at the forecast for the full duration of your trip and if we feel like the weather may change, we will not leave Queenstown. Due to the weather-dependent nature of flying in the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, it is unfortunate that there are very rare occasions where the forecast changes on us and although uncommon, it can be a case that we are unable to operate the return flight. The safety of our passengers is always our highest priority and in the unlikely event that this ever occurs, we will arrange coach transfers back to Queenstown. We fully appreciate the inconvenience this will cause and do everything we can to look after our passengers.