Dame Patsy Reddy officially opens New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy in Whanganui

The New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy (NZICPA) has been officially opened.

Dame Patsy Reddy cut a ribbon to seal the deal in the NZICPA hangar on Airport Rd on Thursday.

The action followed a speech by NZICPA CEO Phillip Bedford, Whanganui mayor Hamish McDouall and one by Dame Patsy herself.

"The freedom and elation of flight has long had a powerful hold on our imagination," Dame Patsy said.

"It's a great pleasure to be here today for the official opening of the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy."

Dame Patsy Reddy and NZICPA CEO Phillip Bedford cut the ribbon to open the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy. Photo / Stuart Munro

The event was attended by about 100 people, including many student pilots.

"This facility is already making a name for itself, both nationally and internationally," Dame Patsy said.

"The impact of this facility is already being felt here in Whanganui, as there are over 75 new residents in the city."

The event marked the conclusion of Dame Patsy's time in Whanganui which started when she attended the investiture of Dame Tariana Turia at Pūtiki Marae on Tuesday.

She went on to visit New Zealand Glassworks, Gonville Cafe Library, Pacific Helmets and First Vets before heading to RNZAF Base Ohakea.