Rotorua Airport birthday - join the party

HANDFUL OF HISTORY: Rotorua International Airport business development manager Anna Rodgers is gearing up for the airport's 50-year anniversary this weekend. PHOTO/BEN FRASER 260314BF6

Rotorua International Airport will celebrate its 50th anniversary this weekend and locals are invited to join the celebrations.

The airport and BayTrust Rescue Helicopter are holding a joint open day on Sunday, which will also recognise the airport's 50-year anniversary.

Airport business development manager Anna Rodgers expected the day to be action-packed, with activities for families and aviation enthusiasts to enjoy.

"I think it's going to be a really fun, family day out," she said. "It's going to be a great opportunity for the local community to see what happens at the airport, how it runs, its history and all the things that happen behind the scenes."

The day will feature displays and information stands by BayTrust Rescue Helicopter, Customs, the New Zealand Fire Service, a Royal New Zealand Air Force Orion, the Coastguard, AVSEC and Rotorua Airport Fire. There will also be an air force helicopter on display, a fun kids' zone with face painting, bouncy castle and food stalls.

The airport's international lounges will be open to the public and event-goers will get the chance to get up close to a range of small aircraft, Ms Rodgers said.

A DC3 plane from World War II will be in action.

Ms Rodgers said Rotorua International Airport had become a cornerstone of the city. "I think it will be an opportunity for people to see all the other facets involved with the running of an airport, we do so much more than operate commercial flights."

Ms Rodgers expected between 3000 to 5000 people to attend the event.

Attendees were encouraged to make a gold coin donation upon entry to the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter and Blue Light charities.

Free parking is available on-site at the airport and a free bus will be running from the Rotorua Convention Centre to the airport every half hour, from 10.30am.

Sunday March 30, 11am-3pm, Gold coin entry