Wings Ambassador Role for Ron Mark
New Wings Over Wairarapa ambassador Ron Mark believes that the sky is the limit for the biennial Masterton air festival.
A former Minister of Defence, Mr Mark was appointed as ambassador of the iconic Wairarapa event three weeks ago.
Scheduled for the final weekend of this month at the Hood Aerodrome, 26-28 February, the air show is on course to draw in 25,000 people over the three days.
With the cancellation of Warbirds Over Wanaka last year, 2021 Wings Over Wairarapa is going to be the biggest air show in New Zealand in two years. More than 70 aircraft have been confirmed with big announcements on additional aircraft expected in the coming days.
“Essentially, as the ambassador, my goal is to assist the board to make Wings Over Wairarapa the premier air show in New Zealand; and the ways I seek to do that is to grow the level of influence and engagement we have domestically and internationally through the education sector, through trade, through culture and through industry.”
The former mayor of Carterton says Wings Over Wairarapa launching into education the way they did in 2019 was a “superb example” of how Wings Over Wairarapa can be diversified and make it more attractive to an even larger audience.
“The work that they have done in promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and encouraging schools to participate I think has been simply outstanding.”
Over 5000 students, from Wairarapa schools, are expected through the gate on the opening day of the show as part of the STEM programme.
Mr Mark says he is “incredibly excited” about 2021 Wings Over Wairarapa and the future prospects for the event.
“I think Wings Over Wairarapa offers the region a premier event that will encourage and grow peoples’ interest in education, particularly in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“Right now, we are in a space where we can shift up a gear taking Wings Over Wairarapa to another level and I think that it is through the education sector. When you consider what the aviation sector requires and needs on a daily basis in terms of people, skill sets, qualification, the education opportunities are boundless, and whatever one learns towards a career in aviation is transportable in so many different directions.”
Mr Mark says as part of his ambassador role he has been in discussions with industry players and with embassies.
“As I say to them, this is your opportunity to showcase your industry, your people, the job opportunities you can offer young New Zealanders.”
Mr Mark says Wings Over Wairarapa has the ability in the future to do much more than just promote Wairarapa, but help New Zealand strengthen relationships with some key country partnerships.
Wings Community Trust Chair, Bob Francis, says he is thrilled to have Ron Mark on board supporting what is one of Wairarapa’s marquee events.
Over 70 aircraft including vintage, military, jets, helicopters, aerobatic displays, skydiving have been confirmed for the 2021 event. WINGS is also a great chance to see first-hand, aircraft from the world-famous Vintage Aviator collection, owned by Sir Peter Jackson. In addition to the spectacular flying programme there are fantastic ground displays, as well as activities for small and big kids alike such as the STEM Aviation and Education programme.
Whether you are an aviation enthusiast or just want an entertaining day out with the family, WINGS 2021 has so much to offer.
Tickets for 2021 Wing Over Wairarapa can be purchased through Eventfinda or via the event website. Ticket offerings include General Admission for individual days or a 3-day General Admission, plus a Family ticket option. Prices range from $40 to $140 for an adult; with family deals; 3 day and Gold Pass options available.
Tickets will be fully refundable should the air show be cancelled for any reason.
For further information please contact:
General Manager Jenny Gasson
Phone 022 090 38 64 / info@wings.org.nz
Published by Destination Wairarapa 24 Oct 2020