Blue Light gets lucky kids airborne

Blue Light gets lucky kids airborne

The Take a Kid Flying initiative has given  a group of Horowhenua schoolchildren an unforgettable experience.

Fifteen volunteer pilots recently donated their time and aircraft at Paraparaumu Airfield to give 30 children aerial views of the region, flying over Kapiti Island and the new expressway. One student, Cayden Pollock, also won a special 30-minute helicopter flight.

The event was run by Horowhenua Blue Light, a branch of the national Blue Light organisation, collaborating with the Kāpiti Aero Club and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. It’s now in its 15th year, continuing to shine a spotlight on positive youth engagement and community collaboration.

Sergeant Stephen James from Youth Services says the event not only provided the tamariki with a unique experience, but also fostered a sense of accomplishment and joy that will stay with them for years to come.

He says it’s a reward for students who exemplify good behaviour and contribute positively at school.

“All schools within the Horowhenua region were invited to nominate students who have shown helpfulness and good conduct, and who truly deserve a special treat,” he says.

“It was a fantastic day, and the feedback from the kids, their families, and the Aero Club was overwhelmingly positive.”

Horowhenua Blue Light, a registered charity initiated by the police, has been running youth programmes for more than two decades. Its mission is to provide young people with new experiences, opportunities for growth, and to strengthen the relationship between police, youth, their families, and the wider community.

he event was supported by the Kāpiti Aero Club, AOPA, Crichton’s Charitable Trust and Goodman Fielder, with special thanks to Horowhenua Blue Light committee members Ally Buck and Joanne Parker.