George's leap of faith at 95

95-year-old George Keruse said he wasn't the least bit scared or nervous about making the tandem jump with instructor Aaron Marriot. Photo / Sarah Ivey

First-time skydiver all smiles as he shows it’s never too late to try something new.

George Keruse had always wanted to go skydiving.

Yesterday the 95-year-old finally got around to it.

"I decided if I don't do it now I'd be getting too old," Mr Keruse said.

He'd actually planned to jump out of a plane five years ago to celebrate his 90th birthday but had to put the plan on hold because of a knee operation.

A recent helicopter flight over Auckland to mark his 95th birthday had rekindled his desire to skydive.

He said he wasn't the least bit scared or nervous about making the tandem jump with instructor Aaron Marriot at Parakai Airfield near Helensville.

"I couldn't wait. I didn't have any nerves whatsoever.

"It was terrific, great. It was a good jump and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Once the parachute opened up it was quite beautiful. It was lovely and clear, a beautiful day.

"It wasn't a bucket list or anything, it's just that I wanted to do it. I've always wanted to do it."

Mr Keruse is Skydive Auckland's oldest tandem skydiver. Ruby Leach, who completed a dive in March, was five years younger at 90.

Ground crew member Brian Neumann said Mr Keruse seemed really relaxed.

"I think his grandson, who was on the ground with us, was more worried than he was. He was asking a lot of questions.

"I think when people get to that age, they think 'Well, I've had a good innings, if I go out having fun, all good'."

Mr Neumann said Mr Keruse received his doctor's clearance and he was assessed at the airfield.

"We check their mobility is fine and we were more than happy with his."