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1476 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.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

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19 hours ago

Does Your Organisation Need New Flooring?

Carpet Court

Is the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one lucky organisation will win a $20,000 flooring makeover!

Carpet Court is continuing its’ mission to help improve Kiwi kids’ learning environments by rolling out its’ nationwide fund for the fifth year in a row. Apply today!
Find out more

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1 day ago

Spring gardening tips

Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village

Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.

Click read more for more information.

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