Aviation enthusiasts made the most of the chance to check out the old and new at the Royal New Zealand Airforce open day in Tauranga.
The RNZAF arrived for its annual training camp away from its Ohakea base last week and opened its doors to the public on Saturday.
Chaplainand public information officer Chris Purdie said the open day was a success.
"We certainly had a steady stream of people throughout the day. It was enough throughput to have people talking at each of our stands and allowing the public to see the aircraft and climb through them."
Mr Purdie said the day was a chance to showcase the airforce and explain the presence of the bright yellow Red Checker Airtrainers seen performing aerobatics above Tauranga during the last week.
"Basically it was an open day to allow the people of Tauranga to see the old aircraft and the new. Tauranga is a place that likes its aviation. There were some keen aviation followers that came through to see the NH90 and the A109 helicopters."
Getting up close to the aircraft and watching working dogs and their handlers in action seemed to be the highlight for many, he said.
