‘Green’ plane takes off in Christchurch
New Zealand’s first passenger battery electric aircraft has taken flight from Christchurch.
Christchurch-based ElectricAir has brought the aircraft to the city to highlight zero exhaust-emission technology.
Launched at Christchurch International Airport on Friday, the plane will be used for trial flights, training and will be available for hire to qualified pilots.
The Pipistrel Alpha Electro can fly for an hour, plus half an hour reserve, which is the ideal duration for training flights.
Operators can recharge the aircraft, which will operate from both Christchurch and Rangiora, in under an hour, using a dedicated charger at Christchurch International Airport.
Along with the low-cost maintenance, the aircraft is about 70 per cent quieter than normal aircraft.
The project has been supported by a $40,000 grant from the Christchurch City Council Innovation and Sustainability Fund and a $19,000 grant from the Christchurch Agency for Energy Trust.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
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