Upper Hutt pilot ends career with a flight to Wuhan
When Upper Hutt pilot Mark Rammell flew the only New Zealand flight into the epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic, he had no idea that same virus would end his four-decade career as a pilot.
In February, he joined the flight crew of an Air New Zealand Boeing 777 in Hong Kong – bound for Wuhan. They were tasked with bringing Kiwis home on the only evacuation flight from the city.
The pandemic led to Air New Zealand parking up most of its planes and Rammell made the tough decision to retire.
Rammel traded in his jet-setting life for a more settled existence, running a function centre and gardens he owns with his wife in Kaitoke.
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
-
54.3% Human-centred experience and communication
-
13.8% Critical thinking
-
29.3% Resilience and adaptability
-
2.6% Other - I will share below!
Trusted Painters for Every Home
Hi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, and cedar weatherboards. We’re tidy, punctual, and perfect for busy families, non-DIYers, and retirees.
Discounts available for SuperGold Card holders
Serving all of Wellington, Hutt Valley & up to Plimmerton.
Message us today for a free quote, we’d love to help bring your home to life!
Loading…