On a sunny Saturday afternoon, a very special Air New Zealand charter flight took off from Christchurch, carrying 50 extraordinary passengers – the Koru Care kids. Koru Care is a beloved charity dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for children facing serious medical conditions or disabilities. For over 40 years, Air New Zealand has proudly partnered with Koru Care, turning dreams into reality through the magic of flight.
This weekend’s flight was a testament to that partnership. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, christened NZ8477, soared into the sky shortly after 1:30 pm, embarking on a breathtaking journey over the heart of the South Island. The plane gracefully descended towards Queenstown, then ventured south, gracefully turning up the East Coast towards Dunedin before returning to Christchurch just after 3 pm.
The flight reached an altitude that offered the Very Important Passengers (NZVIPS) on board a spectacular panorama of the South Island’s stunning landscapes. Air New Zealand’s Chief Pilot Captain David Morgan, who was at the helm of the aircraft, described the flight as a unique opportunity for both the children and plane enthusiasts on the ground.
“It was incredibly rewarding to give these children, who may not have the chance to travel overseas, the thrill of flying on one of our larger international aircraft, showcasing some of the world’s most stunning scenery right here in their own backyard,” Captain Morgan shared. “It’s not every day a 787 Dreamliner circles the South Island, so we couldn’t resist giving a friendly wave to everyone below as we soared overhead.”
The excitement began even before takeoff. The VIPs were treated to a pre-flight party at Christchurch Airport, themed “Around the World in a Day.” The event featured stations inspired by various destinations like New York, Tokyo, Fiji, and Sydney, complete with themed food, activities, and entertainment.
As the plane ascended, each child received a special certificate, signifying that a star in the sky had been officially named after them. Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran, who joined the flight, expressed the airline’s commitment to providing these special moments for children who might not have the chance to travel abroad due to medical conditions or family circumstances.
“The day was a heart-warming reminder of the magic and wonder of flying,” Foran said. “It was an absolute privilege to welcome our Little Stars onboard.”
Tracey Curran, from Koru Care NZ, highlighted the impact of the airline’s support on countless Kiwi children. “Air New Zealand has consistently gone above and beyond to make their dreams come true,” she stated. “This flight was no exception.”
Air New Zealand took their commitment to sustainability a step further by offsetting the flight’s emissions with carbon credits and contributing a koha to projects supporting biodiversity conservation efforts in Aotearoa.
