1880 days ago

‘Green’ plane takes off in Christchurch

Jake Kenny Reporter from Community News

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.

Image
More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

Image
Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.2% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.2% Complete
  • 20.8% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
    20.8% Complete
554 votes
30 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

Image
8 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

Image