Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Note: Throughout this booklet all altitudes are above mean sea level (amsl)
unless otherwise stated.
Auckland
CONTENTS
Pre-flight Preparation..........5
Kaipara Flats
Airspace Overview..............6
Ardmore........................... 14
Auckland.......................... 28
North Shore
Drury................................ 35
Great Barrier Island........... 36 Parakai
Kaipara Flats..................... 38
Whenuapai
Mercer.............................. 40
Waiheke Island
North Shore...................... 41
Auckland City
Parakai............................. 47
Waiheke Island.................. 49
Whenuapai....................... 52
Auckland Ardmore
Drury
CAA Web Site
See the CAA web site for Civil
Aviation Rules, Advisory Circulars,
Airworthiness Directives, forms,
and more safety publications. Mercer
Every effort is made to ensure that the information in this booklet is accurate and up-to-date at the time
of publishing, but many changes can occur over time, especially in regard to airspace and legislation.
Readers are reminded to obtain appropriate up-to-date information.
Auckland
Auckland is home to the busiest and most It is crucial that pilots are thoroughly
complex airspace in New Zealand. Not only familiar with the airspace structure and
does it have the largest number of aircraft local aerodrome procedures before flying
movements per year, but it also facilitates in the area especially if they are new
the operation of numerous aircraft types to the region.
with vastly different performance from
This booklet aims to provide pilots with an
microlights to large jets.
overview of Aucklands airspace structure,
With ten aerodromes, two CTRs (Control its aerodromes and their associated
Zones), and numerous MBZs (Mandatory arrival/departure procedures, and other
Broadcast Zones), CFZs (Common local information. It should be studied
Frequency Zones), VFR transit lanes and in conjunction with the applicable VNCs
GAAs (General Aviation Areas) all packed (Visual Navigation Charts) and sections
within a 25 NM radius of Auckland of AIP New Zealand, Vols 1 and 4, and is
aerodrome, the potential for an incident intended to complement the information
or airspace violation is very real. provided by them.
AIP New Zealand, Vol 4
Pre-flight Preparation Information about arrival and departure
procedures for the key aerodromes in the
Thorough pre-flight preparation is always
Auckland area is in AIP New Zealand, Vol 4.
going to be the key to an incident-free
In particular, the Ardmore and Auckland
flight through busy airspace. It is therefore
aerodrome sections contain some very
important to spend time studying the
detailed arrival and departure instructions.
relevant charts and sections of AIP
You need to be totally familiar with these
New Zealand, Vol 4 before taking to the
before flying into those aerodromes.
air. Reading the most up-to-date AIP
Supplements and NOTAMs will alert you The importance of taking the time to
to any changes. It is your responsibility thoroughly read all the relevant aerodrome
as pilot-in-command to obtain this pages before a flight cannot be emphasised
information before getting airborne. enough. Having the appropriate arrival or
departure page open when approaching
Documents or leaving an aerodrome, and cross-
Visual Navigation Charts referencing to the VNC, is also good
airmanship.
Ensure that you have a full set of up-to-date
area VNCs, because airspace does change.
Communication
A large number of airspace incidents are
caused by pilots referring to out-of-date Keeping safe in such a high traffic area
charts. Ignorance is no excuse. VNCs are requires good communication. It is essential
readily available from Airways New Zealand to use the correct frequency, maintain
or your local flight-training organisation. a listening watch, and make appropriate
position reports. This is particularly true
Refer to the current AIP Supplements for for pilots of aircraft transiting along the
a list of current VNCs. east coast, who may have to make up to
four frequency changes within a very short
space of time. To avoid frequency clutter,
the duration of radio calls should be kept
to the minimum by using standard RTF
phraseology as outlined in Advisory Circular
91-9 Radiotelephony Manual.
Always check that you are on the
appropriate frequency for the airspace you
are in at any given time. If you are in an
MBZ for example, you need to be on the
frequency for that MBZ. On leaving the
MBZ, change to the FISCOM frequency if
5
in undesignated (eg, not a GAA or CFZ)
airspace, or the CFZ frequency if you Airspace Overview
have gone from the MBZ to a CFZ. There
are many combinations, but the point is We have provided 3-D airspace diagrams
that you must be on the frequency used to help your understanding of Aucklands
by other traffic in the area in order to airspace. Referring to the appropriate
maintain situational awareness. Plan your VNC while reading this booklet is also
frequency changes well ahead of time, recommended. All altitudes are above mean
sea level (amsl) unless otherwise stated.
preferably during pre-flight planning.
A 24-hour flight information broadcast Controlled Airspace
is available on FISB (Flight Information
Control Areas
Service Broadcast) Northern, 126.8 MHz.
It is designed to provide pilots with The greater Auckland area is overlaid
the latest area weather and special use with a block of controlled airspace from
airspace activation information, thereby 9500 feet to Flight Level (FL) 600, extending
reducing RTF congestion. Transmitting laterally in a 100-NM radius circle centred
from Seagrove, FSIB Northern has a rated on Auckland aerodrome, with an extension
coverage of approximately 120 NM at to the south and southeast to cover
4000 feet (coverage to the east is reduced New Plymouth, Ohura, Napier, Gisborne,
because of the proximity of the Kaimai and the Bay of Plenty. Apart from IFR
Ranges). Broadcasts start five minutes past aircraft, only activities such as gliding
the hour and every ten minutes thereafter. and aerial photography take place in this
Pilots can be confident that they are airspace. Occasionally, VFR aircraft will
overfly Auckland at these higher levels
receiving the most recent information as
under controlled VFR.
the broadcast is updated direct from the
Airways database every 10 minutes. The more immediate Auckland area is
overlaid with a block of Class C airspace
Local Knowledge centred on Auckland and Whenuapai
When planning a flight, everything you aerodromes, extending from 1500 (2500
need to know should be found by studying above Whenuapai) to 9500 feet, arranged
AIP New Zealand, Vol 4, the VNCs, AIP in an inverted wedding cake structure.
Supplements, and NOTAMs. These Control Areas are stepped to
facilitate the arrival and departure of IFR
Additionally, we suggest that if you are new aircraft in such a way as to keep them
to flying in the Auckland area, you ask a separate from the VFR traffic operating
pilot with experience of the region to brief beneath.
you on what to expect. If such a person is
The reason for the northern and southern
not readily available, a call to an Auckland-
portions of the Control Area being centred
based operator would be worthwhile.
6
on different datum points (Auckland and laterally in an irregular ovoid shape
and Whenuapai), is to provide pilots and approximately 9 NM to the northeast and
controllers with a reference distance for southwest, 7 NM to the southeast and
aircraft arriving at and departing from 4 NM to the northwest. This shape provides
each respective aerodrome. an arrival/departure fan for IFR traffic
using Runway 05/23. This is designated as
Joining
the Instrument Sector on the VNCs, the
Pilots of VFR aircraft joining need to know remainder of the CTR comprising North
where each section of the Control Area and South Sectors.
steps down and organise their descent
A slight indentation in the southeast corner
profile to be at or below that level well
of the CTR accommodates the Ardmore MBZ.
beforehand. Flying 100 feet below the
There is one permanently active Danger Area
Control Area is good aviation practice,
(Otahuhu, surface to 1500 feet) within the CTR.
as it allows for any unintentional
altitude deviations. The Auckland CTR can be extremely busy
airspace, and VFR general aviation pilots
Control Zones are advised to avoid it in peak periods
There are two Control Zones (CTRs) in unless it is absolutely necessary to be there.
the Auckland area, Auckland and
Whenuapai
Whenuapai.
The Whenuapai CTR is Class D airspace and
Auckland extends from the surface to 2500 feet, and
The Auckland CTR is Class C airspace and laterally in a racetrack pattern 14 NM to
extends from the surface to 1500 feet, the southwest and northeast, and 5 NM
to the northwest and
southeast. The North
Shore CFZ protrudes
into the northeast
corner. The CTR has
VFR transit lanes at
its northeastern and
southwestern ends to
allow traffic to move
Photo: Above Ground Level
7
which means that all aircraft wishing to CTR without obtaining an ATC (Air Traffic
enter must have prior approval from the Control) clearance.
Whenuapai Base Commander.
Note: The upper limit of some VFR transit
The Onetaunga Bay Danger Area lanes may be significantly lower than the
(explosives hazard, surface to 1500 feet) upper limit of their associated CTR.
is situated 3.5 NM to the southeast of the
There are two VFR transit lanes in the area:
aerodrome, in an area more often referred
to as Kauri Point. The Danger Area status Whangaparaoa Extending from the
is notified on the Whenuapai ATIS. surface to 1000 feet, this transit lane
Outside Whenuapai Tower hours of allows north and southbound traffic
service, the Whenuapai MBZ is active, and a more direct track through the
pilots must listen out and broadcast their Whenuapai CTR along the east coast
intentions on 134.5 MHz. Also see the and to remain within gliding distance
AIP Supplement for updated information. of land. It is particularly useful for pilots
wanting to get in or out of North Shore
See the Whenuapai aerodrome section,
page 52, for further details. Aerodrome. Note that its upper limit
is only 1000 feet. It is recommended
VFR Transit Lanes that pilots transmit their intentions
VFR transit lanes are part of a CTR and are to City Traffic on 120.4 MHz before
released as Class G (uncontrolled airspace) entering the transit lane. All traffic
during daylight hours only. They allow VFR should keep right and make position
aircraft to transit through the edge of a reports on 120.4 MHz, except that
Inside the Whenuapai Control Zone. Off the coast to the left is the Whangaparaoa VFR Transit Lane.
8
northbound traffic should change to
North Shore 118.0 MHz and call before
reaching the Okura River Mouth.
Te Henga Extending from the surface
to 1500 feet, the Te Henga Transit Lane
is a 2-NM wide corridor that allows
aircraft transiting along the west coast
to fly a more direct track and remain
within gliding distance of land.
9
Auckland City Extending from the 10 minutes. Note that the airspace in
surface to 2500 feet (transponder the vicinity of the Tamaki River can
mandatory above 1500 feet), Auckland get very busy when north/south traffic
City MBZ caters for general operations meets Great Barrier and Waiheke
over the city centre. Sandwiched Island traffic. Because of this cross
between the Auckland and Whenuapai flow, the risks of a mid-air collision
CTRs, the lateral boundaries extend are increased, and extra vigilance is
west into the Waitakere Ranges, and required. As already mentioned, 120.4
east to Musick Point and Howick. MHz is also used for position reports in
Operations within the MBZ are many the Whangaparaoa VFR transit lane.
and varied: hospital transfers from Note: Mechanics Bay heliport generates
three heliports, police surveillance, a significant amount of traffic.
traffic reporting operations, city scenic Be particularly aware of arriving and
flights, and north/south transiting departing traffic in this area.
traffic. Maintaining an awareness of Whenuapai Outside Whenuapai
the position, type and intentions of this Tower hours of service, Whenuapai
traffic is important. Position reports CTR becomes an MBZ. The airspace
should be made on 120.4 MHz every designated as the Te Henga transit lane
and Whangaparaoa transit lane
is excluded.
Great Barrier Extending from the
surface to 4500 feet, this (up to) 25-NM
wide corridor provides an increased
level of safety for the numerous
aircraft (nine or more scheduled
commercial return trips per day)
shuttling back and forth between the
island and Auckland, or North Shore.
Because of this traffic, it is essential
that pilots make regular position
reports on 124.4 MHz.
10
CFZs the same way as MBZs
because of the often high
densities of traffic.
There are two CFZs in the
Auckland area:
Hauraki Gulf
Extending from the
surface to 2500 feet,
this CFZ is designed
to provide a common
frequency for the area
immediately to the
northeast of Auckland
City where north/south Waiheke Island (foreground) is within the Hauraki Gulf CFZ.
traffic may conflict
with traffic transiting between Great of transiting aircraft, to communicate
Barrier and Waiheke Islands. Because on a common frequency. North Shore
of this cross flow, the risk of a mid-air can be a busy aerodrome especially
collision is increased. This can be a over the weekends so familiarity
very busy area, with aircraft heading with local procedures, a good lookout,
in all directions. It is recommended and regular position reports to North
that pilots maintain a good lookout Shore Traffic on 118.0 MHz are a must.
and make regular position reports to
Hauraki Traffic on 120.4 MHz when Danger Areas
flying within the CFZ. A Danger Area should be entered only after
North Shore Extending from the due consideration has been given to the
surface to 2500 feet, this CFZ has the risk. We suggest staying out of them unless
same western and northern lateral you absolutely need to be there.
boundaries as the North Shore There are about a dozen Danger Areas in
GAA. The southern boundary is also the Auckland region. They range in size
common to both, but extends eastward from 0.5 NM to 6 NM across, and cater for
beyond the GAA to cover most of the activities such as glider winch-launching,
Whangaparaoa Peninsula. As well as parachuting, model aircraft flying, and
providing an increased level of safety military operations. Other hazards include
for North Shore circuit traffic, the blasting, explosive storage, and jet efflux.
CFZ is intended to encourage aircraft Refer to the ENR section of AIP New Zealand,
using the North Shore GAA, and pilots Vol 1 for details.
11
Military Operating Areas There are three types of GAA, each of
An entry clearance is required from which has different activation criteria
the designated administering authority refer to the ENR section of AIP New
(this may be by RTF, telephone, or other Zealand, Vol 1 for details. The SSR
acceptable means) before entering a MOA. transponder code appropriate to the
category of aircraft, ie, 1300 for gliders,
There are two MOAs to be aware of in 1400 for powered aircraft (by definition,
the immediate Auckland area: aeroplanes and helicopters) in GAAs,
Whenuapai Extending from the should be set before entering a GAA.
surface to 2500 feet in a 3-NM radius Radio calls on entry and exit should be
around Whenuapai Aerodrome, this made, and a continuous listening watch
MOA accommodates military activities on the appropriate frequency maintained.
such as live firing, parachuting, There are five GAAs in the Auckland area:
and heavy-aircraft circuit training.
All civilian aircraft require prior Ardmore Located to the southeast
approval from the Base Commander, of the Ardmore MBZ and extending
RNZAF Auckland, before entering the 4 NM south of Mercer aerodrome on a
MOA. It is active 24 hours a day. 25-NM arc from Auckland aerodrome,
the Ardmore GAA is divided into two
Papakura Extending from the surface sections by a boundary between Upper
to 1700 feet and situated 2 NM east of Mangatawhiri Reservoir through the
Papakura town, this MOA, commonly State Highway 1 Bombay summit to
called Ardmore Range, encompasses south of Pukekohe. The lower level for
a live-firing range. It is active 24 hours both portions is 2500 feet. The northern
a day. Pilots of aircraft arriving at portion has an upper limit of 3500 feet
Ardmore from the south, or departing and the southern portion has an upper
in that direction, should take extra limit of 4500 feet, allowing aircraft
care to avoid the MOA, because of its to step up another 1000 feet without
close proximity (1.5 NM southeast) to a clearance. It is permanently active
the aerodrome. during daylight hours.
Two other MOAs are described in the Pilots should monitor 118.1 MHz (or
Parakai section of this booklet. 133.05 MHz if within the Mercer MBZ)
when operating within the Ardmore
General Aviation Areas GAA. There may be NORDO traffic
GAAs are sections of controlled airspace operating in the GAA, as well as gliders
that are released to Class G airspace listening out on the universal gliding
during daylight hours only, to facilitate frequency of 133.55 MHz. It is also the
activities such as gliding and powered busiest GAA in the country, so extra
flight training. vigilance is essential.
12
Hunua Located above the northern from 2500 to 3500 feet, this GAA is
portion of the Ardmore GAA and permanently active during daylight
having the same lateral boundaries, hours. Pilots should monitor North
Hunua GAA extends from 3500 to 4500 Shore Traffic on 118.0 MHz when
feet and can be activated with the within the GAA.
prior approval of Auckland Control Woodhill This GAA covers the area
(contact via Christchurch Information between the western border of the
by telephone, or frequency 118.5 MHz). Whenuapai GAA and the West Coast.
It is used mainly by glider pilots who It is available for use during daylight
will, more than likely, be listening out hours with prior ATC approval
on 133.55 MHz. It is not available when (Auckland Control, 124.3 MHz).
Runway 05 is in use at Auckland, or
when the cloudbase at Ardmore is less
Transponder Mandatory
than 4000 feet. Ardmore UNICOM must
also be on watch (this is a condition of Airspace
release by ATC). All controlled airspace is transponder
mandatory (TM). The Auckland City
Caution: Do not enter this GAA unless
MBZ between 1500 feet and 2500 feet
you are absolutely certain that it has
is also transponder mandatory.
been activated this will be notified
on the Ardmore AWIB, 121.0 MHz. If TM airspace is designated so that ATC
not, it is controlled airspace, and is can monitor the relative positions
transited by IFR traffic on approach of aircraft for traffic sequencing
to Runway 23 or on departure from purposes. It also permits ACAS
Runway 05 at Auckland. In recent years equipped aircraft to see other traffic,
there have been several instances of and take avoiding action if required.
near-misses between IFR aircraft and Pilots should make sure their aircraft
unauthorised VFR traffic (without transponder is set to ALT mode when
transponders or with transponders operating within TM airspace. It is
off) in the CTA, which had not been good practice to have the transponder
released as a GAA at the time. on ALT mode at all times.
13
Ardmore
Radio Procedures
Ardmore Aerodrome has a UNICOM facility
(see sidebar) operated by the airport
Mercer
Ardmore Aerodrome looking to the west. confusion, causing other pilots or the
UNICOM operator to request clarification,
General tying up the frequency. Be especially
With over 20,000 movements per month, considerate of the large number of foreign
Waiheke
Island
Ardmore is by far New Zealands busiest students training at Ardmore, for whom
aerodrome. Operating seven days a week, English is not their first language.
Ardmore is home to at least five flight- Taxi calls are not required, in order to
training organisations (fixed-wing and minimise radio congestion. A broadcast
Whenuapai
14
Ardmore
Ardmore
Airspace before entering the runway in use, however.
NZNE is located within the North Pilots flying high-performance aircraft
Auckland
Auckland
Shore CFZ, which shares common (or very slow aircraft) should state their Map folds out
lateral boundaries (except to the aircraft type using its common name,
towards the left
east) with the North Shore GAA, not the aircraft designator. For instance,
extending from the surface to 2500 Navajo or Chieftain should be used
feet. The North Shore Aerodrome instead of PA-31, as few student pilots
Drury
Drury
and CFZ frequency is 118.0 MHz. would know what a PA-31 was, and
Above the CFZ is the North Shore therefore may not adjust their circuit
GAA (2500 to 3500 feet) where spacing accordingly.
Great Barrier
Great Barrier
intensive VFR training takes place. Pilots are encouraged to call turning final
Island
Island
Okura River Mouth viewed from the east. Ardmore UNICOM
The two Danger Areas off the to make it easier to identify them.
Whangaparaoa Peninsula are
for land-based weapons, ring to the Note: North Shore is only 1.5 NM from the Special Use Airspace
northeast (out to sea). To nd out when, northern boundary of the Whenuapai CTR, UNICOM is an acronym derived from
ARDMORE
Kaipara Flats
Kaipara Flats
the US term Universal Communi- Training Areas
and to what altitudes, they are active, so caution is required when operating to
the south of the eld. cations, and in New Zealand is: Extensive flight training takes place
check the area NOTAMs or monitor
Northern FISB on 126.8 MHz. Also, if
Arrival
an air/ground communications to the south of the aerodrome in the
Ardmore and Hunua GAAs. Refer to
(Airspace south of Ardmore)
these Danger Areas are active, red ags service, that may be provided at
From the South or East via Whanga- aerodromes with no aerodrome General Aviation Areas, page 12,
will be visible on the road access when
Mercer
Mercer
paraoa Transit Lane control or aerodrome flight for their operational requirements.
approaching from the northwest. These
information service, to enhance When the cloud base permits, traffic is
areas should be avoided when active. Track via Okura River Mouth and, when
the value of information normally encouraged to establish a flow pattern
Wainui Danger Area (surface to 1000 clear of the VFR transit lane, make an
available at an uncontrolled to and from these training areas refer
immediate climb to 1700 feet for a standard
North Shore
North Shore
feet, model aircraft ying) is 4 NM to to the Ardmore arrival/departure
overhead join. Beware of trafc transiting aerodrome;
the northwest of NZNE. sections, page 17, for details.
south from Whangaparaoa to a service for passing on limited
the city. This trafc should be information to pilots, and other There are extensive operations at
on 118.0 MHz up to the transit persons on the surface, in the Pukekohe East airstrip, a private airstrip
lane boundary. Also, watch for locality of an aerodrome; located 2.5 NM northeast of Pukekohe
Parakai
Parakai
trafc downwind for Runway township. This airstrip is not marked on
not an air traffic service and cannot
21, or climbing out from the VNC but is a popular location for
provide traffic information;
Runway 09. Take care not to forced-landing training. Topdressing
cut the corner, or you may a service that may, on request, aircraft, gliders, microlights, and NORDO
Waiheke
Waiheke
provide the general position of aircraft also use the airstrip. Broadcast
Island
Island
aircraft the operator has received on, and monitor, 119.1 MHz when
Caution: When using this route,
reports from, but the operator operating in the vicinity.
you y over the Weiti Forest.
may not interpret or analyse the
The terrain here is generally
Whenuapai
Whenuapai
information for a pilot.
Weiti Forest viewed from the south. higher than the surrounding
42 15
Ardmore
Airspace It is therefore most important that pilots
/PUJOUFOEFEGPSPQFSBUJPOBMVTF
"3%.03& NZME is situated below the Ardmore GAA, in the area maintain a vigilant lookout
Auckland
within the Mercer MBZ, and within a and provide accurate position reports.
"JSTQBDFTPVUIPG"SENPSF
permanently active Danger Area. Parachutists may exit the aircraft within
WJFXFEGSPNUIFTPVUI
ATC provide trafc information for controlled airspace. They will, however,
aircraft above 4500 feet in the Auckland descend into uncontrolled airspace as they
%,BSBLB Control Area, but no information is given pass 4500 feet.
Drury
for aircraft below that altitude.
4'$
()VOVB
Great Barrier
%.FSDFS areas are unavailable to aeroplanes,
NE North Shore
Island
("SENPSF and ground movements are therefore
6OEFS()VOVB
4'$
conned to the sealed areas.
("SENPSF
Visiting aircraft are welcome to use the
Kaipara Flats
visitors parking spaces provided. See AIP
New Zealand, Vol 4 for details. Parking
for aircraft with special requirements
#"SENPSF.#;
(eg, large aircraft and helicopters) may
)
4'$ be prearranged with the NSAC.
Mercer
.1BQBLVSB
4'$
General
North Shore
"SENPSF"%
Parakai
.FSDFS"%
4'$ private operations. There is also a great
deal of itinerant trafc. NORDO aircraft
often operate in and out of NZNE.
.FSFNFSF
Aircraft using NZNE are required to
Waiheke
Island
maintain standard circuit ows, and
.BSBNBSVB taxiing aircraft need to consider other
#.FSDFS.#; trafc before taxiing, because of passing
difculties on the narrow taxiways and
Whenuapai
4'$
conned manoeuvring areas. All grass North Shore Aero Club
Auckland
UNICOM on 118.1 MHz prior to entering thoroughly understand and follow
the Low Flying Zone (Wairoa River, East the arrival procedures published in
Auckland), and again on exit. In addition, AIP New Zealand, Vol 4 especially if
broadcast on 118.1 MHz on entry and you are new to the area.
exit. This frequency should be monitored
Drury
while operating within the LFZ. Normally, General
only one aircraft at a time is permitted to
Obtain and fully understand the AWIB
operate in the LFZ, but two aircraft may
broadcast on 121.0 MHz well before
Great Barrier
operate there, provided that each aircraft
entering the MBZ.
has a flight instructor on board.
Island
Review the published arrival procedure
Note: Be aware of the Miranda Bird Sanctuary
as soon as the runway in use is known.
situated on the southwestern coastline
Joining long final is not recommended.
of the Firth of Thames. Large numbers of
Kaipara Flats
Aircraft joining are required to give
migratory birds congregate here, so avoid
priority to aircraft in the circuit.
low flying or aerobatics near this area.
Ensure that landing lights and anti-
Danger Areas and MOAs collision lights are ON.
Beware of the following Danger Areas and Call joining before entering the MBZ,
Mercer
MOAs in the vicinity of Ardmore: and clearly state aircraft type, position
(relative to the nearest published VRP),
Karaka Danger Area Surface to
1000 feet, model aircraft flying. altitude, and joining intentions.
North Shore
Listen for automatic beep-back
Drury Danger Area Surface to 2500 confirming your transmission on
feet, glider winch-launching. Refer to
118.1MHz. If you are unfamiliar with
the Drury section, page 35, for details.
the area, tell the UNICOM operator
Mercer Danger Area Surface to when you make your initial joining
4500 feet, extensive parachuting
Parakai
Ardmore AWIB.
17
Ardmore
Be aware that gliders operating within From the West or South via Drury
the Drury circuit do not normally This is the preferred arrival from the
Auckland
Helicopters should join via the left to join downwind. Give way to circuit
published arrival/departure low-level traffic climbing crosswind.
sectors, or via the TLOF (touchdown Alternatively, join overhead at 1600 feet.
North Shore
Zealand, Vol 4.
Runway 03 Arrivals
If the circuit is busy, join
Whenuapai
18
Ardmore
Call joining at or before
Hunua. Do not join downwind
Auckland
via Waterworks, as this
conflicts with outbound traffic.
Drury
From Clevedon, track wide
of the crosswind leg to join
downwind at 1100 feet.
Call joining at or before
Great Barrier
Clevedon, and call again
Island
passing Waterworks joining
downwind. If the circuit is
busy, join from Clevedon and
Karaka Saleyards looking to the east.
Kaipara Flats
track towards Waterworks.
Once inside the MBZ, climb to
1600 feet and join overhead. Runway 21 Arrivals
If the circuit is busy, join overhead.
From the North
Track clear of the eastern boundary of the From the East and South via Hunua
Mercer
Auckland CTR. Call joining before passing This is the preferred arrival from the
Brookby. Track to a point on the non-traffic Ardmore GAA, weather permitting.
side of Runway 03 at 1100 feet, that will From Hunua, track east of Waterworks
North Shore
allow you to cross safely to the downwind towards Clevedon between the two sets
via the Runway 03 upwind threshold. Look of power lines at 1600 feet. Passing east
out for helicopters operating in the Tower of Waterworks, descend to 1100 feet to
TLOF. Do not descend below 1100 feet on join on a wide left base. Look out for
the non-traffic side. traffic on late downwind for Runway 21.
Parakai
non-traffic side at 1100 feet and cross Track via Drury towards Papakura. After
the upwind threshold of Runway 03 to passing just east of Papakura, turn right
turn downwind. Refer to the Auckland to join downwind at 1100 feet, or join
section, page 34, for details on Auckland overhead at 1600 feet. Give way to traffic
Whenuapai
19
Ardmore
before Drury. Look out for glider traffic in the non-traffic side of Runway 21 that will
the vicinity of Drury. allow you to cross safely to the downwind
Auckland
Do not join downwind via Red Hill, as this leg via the Runway 21 upwind threshold.
could conflict with crosswind traffic and Look out for helicopters operating in the
does not conform to the circuit pattern. Tower TLOF. Do not descend below 1100
Aircraft should track parallel to Runway 21 feet on the non-traffic side.
with wings level prior to reaching
Drury
downwind.
and then following Whitford Park Road The following sections look at various
below 1500 feet will keep you clear of aspects of local operations in and around
the Auckland CTR as well as the Control Ardmore Aerodrome. It is intended to
Area above. Call joining before passing help aerodrome users standardise their
Whenuapai
20
Ardmore
Ground Movements Be prepared to adjust your speed to
The holding point area for Runway 03 maintain safe circuit spacing.
Auckland
often becomes congested. With the Low-level circuits and orbits within
exception of aircraft from Ardmore the circuit are not permitted.
Flying School, it is recommended that Aircraft must be established on the
engine run-ups and pre-takeoff checks runway centreline at or above 600
be completed elsewhere to help ease feet. This includes glide approaches.
Drury
this congestion.
Pilots simulating engine failures after
After landing, aircraft should vacate takeoff must not descend below
the sealed runway as soon as possible. 400 feet, and the exercise must be
Great Barrier
Do not roll ahead to the next sealed contained within the approach fan.
Island
taxiway unless your aircraft has a
Pilots taking off or going around
propeller clearance problem. Rather,
must climb to 600 feet before turning
expedite over the grass at a 45-degree
crosswind (refer to go-around
Kaipara Flats
angle to the southern sealed taxiway.
procedure below).
But be sure to control your speed first.
High-performance aircraft taking off
The pilot of an aircraft on short final
need to watch for aircraft joining
must not pressure a preceding pilot to
overhead, particularly as they cross
vacate the runway prematurely go
the upwind threshold of the runway
Mercer
around if spacing is insufficient. in use.
There is limited space for aircraft to Aircraft departing, or landing behind
pass on the southern taxiway, so it heavy or high-performance aircraft,
North Shore
may be necessary to pull to one side, need to be aware of, and apply,
and hold, to enable other aircraft to adequate wake turbulence separation.
pass. Beware of the drainage ditch on Be aware also of rotor wash from
the southern side of the taxiway. helicopters.
Aircraft on the southern taxiway must If you elect to use either grass
Parakai
give way to aircraft exiting the sealed runway, be certain that it meets the
runway at Taxiway Alpha. performance requirements of your
See the Ardmore Ground Movements chart aircraft.
in AIP New Zealand, Vol 4 for more detail. Disused sealed Runway 07/25 is
Waiheke
Island
21
Ardmore
go around, or use the grass runway if Parallel operations are permitted only
available. High-performance aircraft for aircraft of 2700 kg or less.
will often extend downwind for
Simultaneous use of the 07/25 grass
Great Barrier
permitted.
that you do not turn base or final,
inside or in front of them. Aircraft airborne off the grass need
to ensure they maintain separation
We all know what it is like to wait
Kaipara Flats
22
Ardmore
must give way to helicopter traffic. When going around off the grass
Contact UNICOM prior to using runway approach, track to maintain
Auckland
07/25 grass, and they will notify the the centreline because of the proximity
helicopter traffic of the need to change of the sealed runway and Helicopter
runways. (Make radio contact with TLOF on either side.
the helicopter traffic if wishing to use
If a go-around from the base leg is
07/25 grass outside of UNICOM hours
required (eg, as a result of poor circuit
Drury
of service.) Aircraft should either hold
spacing), climb to 1100 feet, cross the
clear of the circuit area, or remain
extended runway centreline, track to
in the 03/21 circuit until a runway
the non-traffic side, broadcast your
change is possible.
Great Barrier
intentions, and carry out a standard
Simultaneous takeoffs and landings overhead join for the same runway.
Island
during banner pickup and drop-off Look and listen out for other aircraft
are not permitted because of the joining overhead.
decreased lateral separation involved.
Kaipara Flats
(Banners are picked up and dropped Runway Closure
off from the strip of grass between the If, in the event of an emergency, Runway
sealed and grass runways.) 03/21 is obstructed, the aerodrome may
temporarily close. In this event, airborne
Go-arounds
aircraft need to hold clear of the circuit
Go-arounds at Ardmore are quite common
Mercer
until the runway is readied for use.
because of the closely spaced nature of The UNICOM operator will provide regular
circuit traffic. The following points need to updates. If fuel reserves do not permit
be considered: an extended hold, pilots should divert to
North Shore
During a go-around off sealed Runway another aerodrome. The airport company
21, aircraft should ease to the left may make Runway 03/21 grass or Runway
away from traffic in the 21 grass 07/25 grass available as an alternative for
circuit. Likewise, aircraft going around aircraft whose performance permits the
off 03 seal should ease slightly to the use of the grass vectors. Even under these
Parakai
right; ie, to the south of the main circumstances, Taxiway Juliet is not to be
runway, then track parallel to the used as a runway.
runway heading, and climb to 600 feet
before turning crosswind. Night Operations
Extensive night training takes place in
Aircraft going around off 03/21 seal
Waiheke
Island
23
Ardmore
give the illusion that they are further The following section is designed to
away than they actually are. They also increase helicopter and fixed-wing pilots
tend to fly a tighter circuit and are awareness of the way the other operates.
likely to be travelling at slower speeds
downwind; eg, 70 knots. Fixed-wing Pilots
Mercer
before continuing.
Be careful of helicopter traffic using
the centre-grass area when taxiing
clear of either grass runway. Taxi with
Whenuapai
24
Ardmore
the helicopter TLOF squares may be Landings are not permitted in the
difficult to see if the grass is long. Low Flying Zone.
Auckland
Helicopter Pilots
Departure
Fly friendly by keeping clear of
It is vital that all pilots departing Ardmore
surrounding houses, orchards, etc.
thoroughly understand and follow the
Climb early and descend late with
departure procedures published in AIP
respect to the aerodrome boundary.
Drury
Maintain 600 to 800 feet, and stay New Zealand, Vol 4 for the runway in use
within the Arrival/Departure Sectors, especially if they are new to the area.
until the aerodrome boundary. In the
General
Great Barrier
designated descent segment (Northern
Island
Sector), maintain not below 300 feet Obtain and fully understand the AWIB
within 250 metres of the boundary. broadcast on 121.0 MHz before taxiing.
Refer AIP New Zealand, Vol 4. Include Change to 118.1 MHz and confirm the
your altitude passing when making a runway in use. Brief the applicable
Kaipara Flats
departure radio call rather than just published departure procedure.
vacating low level.
Broadcast departure intentions and
Exercise caution when joining
turn on landing lights and anti-collision
overhead (eg, to practise an
lights just before entering the runway
autorotation), and give way to fixed-
Mercer
in use. Listen for automatic beep-
wing aircraft. Liaise with UNICOM
back confirming your transmission on
to confirm if any other aircraft have
118.1MHz.
reported joining overhead. Always
maintain a good lookout and listening Be aware that gliders operating within
North Shore
watch for other aircraft as UNICOM the Drury circuit do not normally
may not know about them. listen out on 118.1 MHz.
Listen out for TLOF calls and, if
Runway 03 Departure
possible, give way to autorotations.
To the South via Hunua
Parakai
Be aware of aeroplanes going around feet once clear of the circuit) and vacate
off 03/21 seal above the southern directly to the south or to Hunua,
aiming point and south eastern apron remaining west of the westernmost set
if you are arriving or departing via of powerlines. Call vacating when clear
Whenuapai
25
Ardmore
the circuit and call vacating when clear of 118.1 MHz until clear of the MBZ. Refer to
the MBZ). Look out for traffic joining right the Auckland section, page 29, for details
base for Runway 03 and glider winch- on Auckland arrival procedures.
launching at Drury aerodrome.
North Shore
To the Northeast
via Clevedon
Climb straight ahead to Clevedon
and call vacating the MBZ. Look
Parakai
To the North
Waiheke
Island
26
Ardmore
Runway 21 Departure To the North
To the South and West via Drury Depart via the end of the downwind
Auckland
This is the preferred departure to the leg at 1100 feet to east of Brookby.
Ardmore GAA. Look out for traffic joining left base
from Waterworks and long final from
Maintain the runway centreline until
Clevedon. Right turns after takeoff
crossing the railway line (climb to 1500
are not permitted. Remain clear of the
feet once clear of the circuit), turn left
Drury
eastern boundary of the Auckland CTR,
and track between Papakura and Karaka.
and below the Auckland CTA. Tracking
Call vacating once clear of the MBZ, and
via Whitford Park Road then to the east
track to the west of Drury. Look out for
of the Whitford golf course not above
Great Barrier
glider traffic in the vicinity of Drury.
1500 feet will achieve this, but note
Island
To the South and East via Red Hill that Whitford Town is right on the CTR
(alternate route) boundary. Call vacating once clear of
Depart via the crosswind leg, tracking the MBZ.
Kaipara Flats
southeast between the Papakura MOA and To Auckland CTR
Drury Danger Area, climb to at least 1500
Depart towards Karaka. Hold clear of
feet passing Red Hill. Aircraft with poor
Auckland CTR until cleared to enter by
climb performance, especially in a westerly
the Tower. Monitor Ardmore 118.1 MHz
wind, unable to climb to 1500 feet before
until clear of the MBZ. Refer to the
Mercer
Red Hill, should depart either to the south
Auckland section, page 29, for details on
via Drury or to the east via the downwind
Auckland arrival procedures.
leg to Clevedon. Avoid vacating east via
Waterworks because of possible conflict
North Shore
with traffic inbound from
Hunua. Call clear of the MBZ.
27
Ardmore
avoid it is essential.
See our Good Aviation
Practice booklet, Wake
Turbulence, for more
North Shore
Because of the often very high traffic Uncontrolled airspace to the east,
densities, itinerant pilots intending to west, and south.
Whenuapai
use NZAA must have an operational radio Auckland Control Area overhead.
28
Ardmore
Ardmore
Ardmore
and
andtransponder,
transponder,and andmakemakethemselves
themselves These areas of uncontrolled airspace aircraft to the north of the aero-
AA
AA Auckland
Auckland thoroughly
thoroughlyfamiliar
familiarwithwiththethearrival,
arrival, adjacent to the Auckland CTR often have drome, pilots are still responsible for
Auckland
Auckland
Auckland
departure,
departure,and andground
groundmovement
movement very high traffic densities. A diverse mix conforming to minimum safe heights
procedures depictedininAIP
proceduresdepicted AIPNew
NewZealand,
Zealand, over built-up areas (ie, 1000 feet agl).
Map folds out
of aircraft types carry out a variety of
Vol
Vol4,4,before
beforeying
yingthere.
there.Being
Beingwell
well activities some examples are police towards the left
If a clearance is not available, remain
prepared,
prepared,withwitha agood
goodknowledge
knowledgeofofthese
these surveillance, air ambulance, aerial outside the CTR.
procedures,
procedures,will willhelp
helptotoensure
ensuresmooth
smooth photography, scheduled air transport,
When arriving from the north, you
Drury
Drury
Drury
traf
trafc cows
owsand
andkeep
keepdelays
delaystotoa aminimum.
minimum. charter, and sightseeing flights. It is
Listen
Listencarefully
carefullytotoATC
ATCinstructions
instructionsandandifif need to be aware of the Otahuhu
essential, therefore, that pilots make
inindoubt,
doubt,ask.
ask. Danger Area, often referred to as the
themselves thoroughly familiar with the
Otara Power Station.
airspace boundaries (see VNCs), and with
Great Barrier
Barrier
Great Barrier
AsAsthe
themajority
majorityofofaircraft
aircraftoperating
operatinginin
the requirements for the different
Island
Island
Island
and
andoutoutofofAuckland
Auckland
are
areofofthe
themedium
medium types of airspace (MBZs, CFZs, etc).
Great
ororheavy
heavycategory,
category, A high standard of radio work is
wake
waketurbulence
turbulenceisis also necessary when operating in
AUCKLAND AIRSPACE
Kaipara Flats
Kaipara Flats
Kaipara Flats
a areal
realconcern.
concern.Light
Light these areas.
aircraft
aircraftareareparticularly
particularly
(South of Whenuapai)
Mercer
avoid
avoidititisisessential.
essential. arrival routes to Auckland aero-
See
Seeour
ourGood
GoodAviation
Aviation drome. Before entering the CTR,
Practice booklet,Wake
Practicebooklet, Wake call Auckland Tower on 118.7 MHz
Turbulence,
Turbulence,for
formore
more and give an abbreviated position Auckland Tower
North Shore
North Shore
North Shore
Auckland
AucklandInternational
InternationalAirport
Airport information.
information.Also
Alsorefer
refer report (callsign, position relative to
totothe
theAD sectionofofAIP
ADsection AIPNew
NewZealand,
Zealand,VolVol a VRP, and altitude). After receiving your Cornwallis Arrival
1 1for
foradditional
additionalguidance
guidancematerial
materialononwake
wake arrival instructions, follow the assigned
General
General Track via north of Cornwallis and via
turbulence
turbulenceandandjet
jetblast.
blast. arrival procedure (VFR Arrival Procedures Puketutu Island to Mangere Town
Auckland
Auckland(NZAA) (NZAA)isisa abusy
busyinternational
international All Runways are listed below), and comply
Parakai
Parakai
Parakai
remaining north of the Instrument Sector,
airport,
airport,with withapproximately
approximately9595percent
percentofof Adjacent
AdjacentAirspace
Airspace with any further instructions Tower may at 1500 feet or below, unless otherwise
itsitstraf
trafc cbeing
beingIFR
IFRairairtransport
transportaircraft.
aircraft. give you. A clearance to enter the CTR
Airspace
Airspaceadjacent
adjacenttotothe
theAuckland
AucklandCTR
CTR instructed. Report approaching Mangere
Consequently,
Consequently,light lightaircraft
aircraftcannot
cannotexpect
expect and join directly is sometimes issued.
(Class
(ClassC):
C): Town for joining or holding instructions.
any
anypriority
priorityexcept
exceptininemergencies.
emergencies.Refer
Refer
Note:
Waiheke
Waiheke
Waiheke
Auckland
AucklandCity
CityMBZ
MBZtotothe
thenorth.
north.
Island
Island
Island
totothetheENR sectionofofAIP
ENRsection AIPNew
NewZealand,
Zealand, Mangere Bridge Arrival
Vol
Vol1,1,forfordetails
detailsofoftraf
trafc cpriorities.
priorities. Ardmore
ArdmoreMBZ
MBZtotothe
theeast.
east. The cleared altitude is always given Track via Mangere Bridge to Mangere Town
Uncontrolled
Uncontrolledairspace
airspacetotothe
theeast,
east, when direct clearances are issued. at 1500 feet or below, unless otherwise
Because
Becauseofofthetheoften
oftenvery
veryhigh
hightraf
traf
cc
densities,
densities,itinerant
itinerantpilots
pilotsintending
intendingtoto west,
west,and
andsouth.
south. Although controllers issue clearances instructed. Report approaching Mangere
Whenuapai
Whenuapai
Whenuapai
use
useNZAA
NZAAmustmusthave
haveananoperational
operationalradio
radio Auckland
AucklandControl
ControlArea
Areaoverhead.
overhead. at 1500 feet or below, especially for Town for joining or holding instructions.
2828 29
Ardmore
Ardmore
Runway
Runway2121Departure
Departure ToTothe
theNorth
North
/PUJOUFOEFEGPSPQFSBUJPOBMVTF
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theSouth
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Drury Depart
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theend
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downwind
Auckland
Auckland
This
Thisisisthe
thepreferred
preferreddeparture
departuretotothe
the leg
legatat1100
1100feet
feettotoeast
eastofofBrookby.
Brookby.
4PVUIPG8IFOVBQBJ
Look
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Ardmore
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WJFXFEGSPNUIFTPVUI from
fromWaterworks
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nalfrom
from
Maintain
Maintainthe therunway
runwaycentreline
centrelineuntil
until
Clevedon.
Clevedon.RightRightturns
turnsafter
aftertakeoff
takeoff
%5BNBLJ crossing
crossingthetherailway
railwayline
line(climb
(climbtoto1500
1500
are
arenot
notpermitted.
permitted.RemainRemainclear
clearofofthe
the
%0UBIVIV feet
feetonce
onceclear
clearofofthe
thecircuit),
circuit),turn
turnleft
left
Drury
Drury
4'$ eastern
easternboundary
boundaryofofthe theAuckland
AucklandCTR, CTR,
and
andtrack
trackbetween
betweenPapakura
Papakuraand andKaraka.
Karaka.
4'$ and
andbelow
belowthe theAuckland
AucklandCTA. CTA.Tracking
Tracking
%.BOHFSF#SJEHF Call
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vacatingonce onceclear
clearofofthe
theMBZ,
MBZ,and and
via
viaWhitford
WhitfordPark ParkRoad
Roadthenthentotothe
theeast
east
#"SENPSF.#; track
tracktotothe
thewest
westofofDrury.
Drury.Look
Lookoutoutfor
for
ofofthe
theWhitford
Whitfordgolf golfcourse
coursenot notabove
above
Great
Great Barrier
4'$ ) glider
glidertraf
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thevicinity
vicinityofofDrury.
Drury.
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1500feet
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willachieve
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this,but
butnote
note
Island
Island
"VDLMBOE$5"$
Barrier
ToTothe
theSouth
Southand
andEast
Eastvia
viaRed
RedHill
Hill that
thatWhitford
WhitfordTown Townisisright
rightononthe
theCTR
CTR
(alternate
(alternateroute)
route) boundary.
boundary.Call Callvacating
vacatingonce onceclear
clearofof
Depart
Departvia viathethecrosswind
crosswindleg, leg,tracking
tracking the
theMBZ.
MBZ.
Kaipara Flats
Kaipara Flats
southeast
southeastbetween
betweenthe thePapakura
PapakuraMOA MOAand and ToToAuckland
AucklandCTR
CTR
"VDLMBOE$53$ Drury
DruryDanger
DangerArea,Area,climb
climbtotoatatleast
least1500
1500
Depart
Departtowards
towardsKaraka.
Karaka.Hold
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clearofof
feet
feetpassing
passingRed RedHill.
Hill.Aircraft
Aircraftwith
withpoor
poor
4'$ Auckland
AucklandCTR CTRuntil
untilcleared
clearedtotoenter
enterbyby
climb
climbperformance,
performance,especially
especiallyinina awesterly
westerly
the
theTower.
Tower.Monitor
MonitorArdmore
Ardmore118.1
118.1MHz
MHz
wind,
wind,unable
unabletotoclimbclimbtoto1500
1500feet
feetbefore
before
until
untilclear
clearofofthe
theMBZ.
MBZ.Refer
Refertotothe
the
Mercer
Mercer
Red
RedHill,
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shoulddepart
departeither
eithertotothe
thesouth
south
Auckland
Aucklandsection,
section,page
page29,
29,for
fordetails
detailsonon
.BOHFSF#SJEHF via
viaDrury
Druryorortotothe theeast
eastvia
viathe
thedownwind
downwind
Auckland
Aucklandarrival
arrivalprocedures.
procedures.
leg
legtotoClevedon.
Clevedon.Avoid Avoidvacating
vacatingeasteastviavia
Waterworks
Waterworksbecause becauseofofpossible
possiblecon
con ictict
North Shore
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1100
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fortraf
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)VOVB
joining
joiningonona aleft
leftbase
basefrom
from
east
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Waiheke
Waiheke
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Island
vacating
vacatingonce
onceclear
clearofofthe
the
MBZ.
MBZ.Also
Alsobebeaware
awareofofaircraft
aircraft
tracking
trackingnorth/south
north/southoutside
outside
the
theeastern
easternedge
edgeofofthe
the
Whenuapai
Whenuapai
/PUF 'PSSFBTPOTPGDMBSJUZ
OPUBMMBJSTQBDFGFBUVSFT Ardmore
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Ardmore
Seagrove Arrival Holding
Track via Seagrove at 1000 feet or below, Because of traffic priorities, ATC may
Auckland
unless otherwise instructed. Report have to hold light aircraft until a suitable
approaching Seagrove for joining or arrival slot is available.
holding instructions (joining may include
Arrivals from the north are sometimes
routing via Weymouth).
held north of Mangere Town.
Clendon Park Arrival (from Ardmore
Drury
Arrivals from the south are sometimes
or from south) held south of Weymouth or Seagrove.
Enter via the Clendon Park Arrival Area,
track via Weymouth to Clendon Park, 1000 Approach and Landing
Great Barrier
feet or below, unless otherwise instructed. The circuit height at Auckland is 1000 feet.
Island
Report approaching Clendon Park for Pilots are typically taught to fly square
joining or holding instructions. circuits and stable approaches at standard
flight manual approach
Kaipara Flats
speeds with flap extended.
Unfortunately, a light aircraft
flying a 3-NM final at 70 knots is
not compatible with turboprop
and jet aircraft approaching
at speeds of up to 200 knots.
Mercer
Controllers find it very difficult
to achieve adequate runway
separation with such large
North Shore
speed differentials. It is an ATC
requirement that VFR aircraft
Clendon Park looking towards Auckland aerodrome. in the circuit maintain an
McLaughlins Mountain circled. approach speed of not less than
90 knots IAS when above 300
Joining
Parakai
31
Ardmore
Auckland
Drury
Great Barrier
Island
feet. This often requires a degree of skill in pages will be broadcast on the Auckland
Kaipara Flats
practise (with an instructor) at your home are severely restricted and actively
aerodrome before arriving at NZAA. discouraged during temporary runway
operations. See also AIP New Zealand,
Runways in Use
Vol 4, Auckland Green Pages.
North Shore
23L Western end Runway shortened Standard threshold and touchdown point.
23L Eastern end Inset threshold Fly over the work and land at the
displaced touchdown point.
Whenuapai
32
Ardmore
Auckland
Drury
Great Barrier
Island
Kaipara Flats
Mangere Town looking south.
Mercer
Runway occupancy time is an important
issue at Auckland. Vacate the runway
quickly after landing, via the nearest
rapid exit taxiway, and contact Ground
North Shore
on 121.9 MHz for a taxi clearance.
Parking for light aircraft is extremely
limited at the light aircraft parking area
on the west side of Taxiway C4. Pilots Weymouth from the west.
and operators should refer to AD section
If an overflight is possible, Auckland
Parakai
33
Ardmore
otherwise instructed.
Cornwallis Departure
Track towards Puketutu Island;
remain north of the Instrument
Sector. Leave the CTR north of
Parakai
34
Ardmore
Class C controlled airspace sits directly above
Drury Drury and extends from 3500 feet upwards.
Auckland
IFR aircraft to or from the Bay of Plenty area
often overfly Drury. VFR pilots are therefore
well advised to maintain an adequate buffer
below this controlled airspace and have
transponder Mode C (ALT) selected.
Drury
Local Operations
At Drury glider aerodrome, launching is by
aero-tow and by winch. The traffic circuit is to
Great Barrier
the west of the aerodrome, so it is left-hand
Island
for Runway 01 and right-hand for Runway 19.
General As with all glider operations, the circuit height
varies, but it is generally 1000 feet agl or
The Drury glider aerodrome is located
Kaipara Flats
below. The traffic frequency is 134.45 MHz.
1.5 NM east of Drury VRP. The reporting
point is the motorway interchange on the Aero-tows to 2000 feet are commonly
southern side of Drury township. This is the carried out over the ridge to the southeast of
reporting point used most often by aircraft the aerodrome. When gliding is in progress,
departing southwards from Ardmore, or remain clear of this ridge. Just southeast of
Mercer
arriving from the south. Most aircraft the field there is a quarry, over which gliders
coming and going from the Ardmore GAA often thermal.
also fly over, or near, Drury. Landing and Winch launches can reach 2000 feet.
anti-collision lights should be ON, and a These are very rapid, so dont fly over the
North Shore
sharp lookout is essential, while listening glider field below 2500 feet. The winch cable
out on 118.1 MHz. Refer to the Ardmore itself is a potential collision hazard, both
section, page 14, for more detail. during the launch and during the time it
takes to fall to earth after release from the
Airspace glider. It is virtually impossible to see in
Parakai
operate within this area on their own radio to gliders, and tow-planes with gliders in tow.
frequency, 134.45 MHz. The western limit Occasional helicopter traffic can be expected
of this Danger Area is just to the east of to and from a heliport located at Runciman,
Drury VRP, so transiting aircraft should 1.8 NM to the southwest of Drury glider aero-
Whenuapai
be careful to remain west of Drury. drome. The heliport is marked on the VNCs.
35
Ardmore
Auckland
Airspace
NZGB lies within the Great Barrier MBZ.
Great Barrier
turbulence can be expected in moderate Great Barrier looking down Runway 10.
36
Ardmore
MBZ, and again at Channel Island before
joining at Great Barrier.
Auckland
Arrivals
From the South
Join via the eastern side of the island for
long final Runway 28, or downwind for
Drury
Runway 10.
Great Barrier
Join via Whangaparapara or Okiwi.
Island
Whangaparapara from the southwest.
From Auckland or North Shore
When Runway 28 is in use, join via
Tryphena Harbour or Blind Bay. Tryphena
Kaipara Flats
and Blind Bay (both marked on the VNC)
are local reporting points.
When Runway 10 is in use, join via
Whangaparapara or Blind Bay.
Mercer
Departure
The IFR departure track is outbound
Tryphena Harbour from the south.
on the 065 track (ie, a northeast track),
North Shore
as depicted on the VNCs.
For VFR or IFR visual departures the
following are recommended:
Runway 10 depart via Tryphena
Harbour or the downwind leg.
Parakai
37
Ardmore
Airspace
Island
township and 3.5 NM west of Warkworth. East Kaipara Harbour, where model
A moderate amount of light aircraft activity aircraft flying takes place from the surface
and occasional parachuting takes place in and to 1500 feet, is located approximately
around the aerodrome. Hang gliding takes 7 NM west of the aerodrome.
place occasionally from two nearby sites
Mercer
North Shore
Parakai
Waiheke
Island
Whenuapai
38
Ardmore
Auckland
Drury
Great Barrier
Island
Kaipara Flats
Mercer
Warkworth looking west towards Kaipara Flats.
North Shore
As NZKF is an uncontrolled aerodrome, From Kaipara Flats township, proceed
normal unattended aerodrome procedures eastwards approximately 2.5 NM then
apply. join overhead for the runway in use.
From Warkworth, line up with the Kaipara From Springhill aerodrome (located about
Harbour entrance to the west, then 4 NM north of NZKF), proceed south, then
proceed approximately 3 NM west until a join overhead for the runway in use.
large glasshouse is sighted. This glasshouse
Waiheke
Circuit Procedures
Runway 25.
The runway at NZKF is designated 07/25.
All circuits are to the south of the aero-
drome the circuit direction is right-hand
Whenuapai
39
Ardmore
and can be difficult to locate if you are 5-NM radius of the PLA, and pilots call
unfamiliar with the area. three minutes before a parachute drop,
Aircraft approaching with the intention of then one minute before, and then they
North Shore
landing or operating in the NZME circuit call jumpers away. When hearing the
should call Mercer Base on 133.05 MHz jump pilots three-minute call, other pilots
or listen to the Mercer AWIB (the AWIB operating aircraft in the Mercer circuit
is activated by transmitting four times should either vacate the area, or land and
within three seconds on 133.05) to find taxi clear of the PLA, and shut down their
out if parachuting is in progress. When engines. Jumpers may approach from 1 to
Parakai
not need to be on Mercer frequency unless be very hard to see. Skydivers are also
they enter the MBZ. Only pilots intending very hard to see, even after they have
to join NZME or transit the MBZ should deployed their parachutes. Parachute
broadcast their intentions on 133.05 MHz. canopies usually open on descent between
Whenuapai
40
Ardmore
Airspace It is therefore most important that pilots
NZME is situated below the Ardmore GAA, in the area maintain a vigilant lookout
Auckland
within the Mercer MBZ, and within a and provide accurate position reports.
permanently active Danger Area. Parachutists may exit the aircraft within
ATC provide traffic information for controlled airspace. They will, however,
aircraft above 4500 feet in the Auckland descend into uncontrolled airspace as they
Control Area, but no information is given pass 4500 feet.
Drury
for aircraft below that altitude.
Great Barrier
areas are unavailable to aeroplanes,
NE North Shore
Island
and ground movements are therefore
confined to the sealed areas.
Visiting aircraft are welcome to use the
Kaipara Flats
visitors parking spaces provided. See AIP
New Zealand, Vol 4 for details. Parking
for aircraft with special requirements
(eg, large aircraft and helicopters) may
be prearranged with the NSAC.
Mercer
General
North Shore
North Shore (NZNE) is a non-certificated
aerodrome owned and operated by the
North Shore Aero Club (NSAC). It is a
very busy aerodrome with fixed-wing
and helicopter training, commercial and
Parakai
41
Ardmore
Airspace
NZNE is located within the North
Auckland
The two Danger Areas off the Okura River Mouth viewed from the east.
Whangaparaoa Peninsula are
for land-based weapons, firing to the Note: North Shore is only 1.5 NM from the
northeast (out to sea). To find out when, northern boundary of the Whenuapai CTR,
Kaipara Flats
and to what altitudes, they are active, so caution is required when operating to
check the area NOTAMs or monitor the south of the field.
Northern FISB on 126.8 MHz. Also, if
Arrival
these Danger Areas are active, red flags
will be visible on the road access when From the South or East via Whanga-
Mercer
Weiti Forest viewed from the south. higher than the surrounding
42
Ardmore
area (up to 415 feet elevation),
and low-level helicopter training
Auckland
takes place in this area.
Drury
inbound altitude, but leaves
very little time to contact North
Shore Traffic once clear of
Great Barrier
the Whenuapai CTR. Consider
Island
requesting an early change of
Silverdale looking to the east.
frequency, or if you have a
second radio, monitor North
Shore Traffic on 118.0 MHz.
Kaipara Flats
From the North
The normal track is along the
coast via Orewa and then
overhead Silverdale industrial
Mercer
area and motorway interchange.
The approach angle is quite
acute, and an extra orbit
overhead may be required for
North Shore
orientation, and to develop
Red Beach with Orewa Inlet beyond.
situational awareness of other
traffic.
Orewa VRP is the bridge over
Parakai
43
Ardmore
Local Operations
Circuit Procedures
Great Barrier
44
Ardmore
hazards, and to call Parakai Traffic on operations at Parakai aerodrome (NZPI),
119.1 MHz when entering and exiting. and both military and sport parachuting
Auckland
Permission from the operators is required at Whenuapai (NZWP).
before using this LFZ. See AIP New Zealand,
Vol 1 for details. Departure
For fixed-wing traffic, a left turn after
Night Operations
takeoff is standard for all runways. Right
Drury
Pilot activated lighting is available see turns are permitted only above 1700 feet,
AIP New Zealand, Vol 4. The use of this or clear of the fixed-wing and helicopter
facility is subject to prior approval and a circuits.
briefing by the CFI or Deputy CFI of the
Great Barrier
NSAC. Standard circuits are flown using Helicopters should not make a right
Island
Runways 03 and 21. A voluntary curfew turn from Runway 21 or a left turn from
applies from 22:00 to 07:00 local time. runway 03 until clear of the fixed-wing
and helicopter circuits.
Standby power is not available and after
Kaipara Flats
hours lighting failures may not be notified. To the South
Any night flight to North Shore should
This route requires transit through the
therefore nominate a suitable alternate
Whenuapai CTR. Listen to the ATIS before
aerodrome such as Ardmore or Auckland.
departure, then call Whenuapai Tower
Helicopter Activity for a clearance. Routing will normally be
Mercer
via Coatesville, North Harbour Stadium,
Intensive helicopter activity and training
and the Northern Motorway to Harbour
takes place to the east of Runway 03/21,
Bridge. If the tower is off watch, broadcast
and on all runways as required. Low-level
callsign, position, altitude, and intentions
North Shore
training may take place clear of, but
parallel to, the fixed-wing circuit
in use. Clear of the circuit to
the east, low-level helicopter
operations take place in Weiti
Parakai
Parachuting
No parachuting takes place at
Whenuapai
45
Ardmore
Auckland
Drury
Great Barrier
Island
Kaipara Flats
North Harbour Stadium looking south. Riverhead Forest from the south.
on 134.5 MHz (Whenuapai Traffic) before be via Browns Bay and the east coast
entering the CTR. beaches. If uncontrolled, track north of the
Mercer
To the North
Normally via Orewa Inlet or the
Waiheke
Island
Wainui area.
To the West
Normally via Waitoki or
Whenuapai
46
Ardmore
There are two MOAs, Kaipara and South
PI Parakai Head, to the northwest (7.5 and 13.5 NM
Auckland
respectively). Both are activated by
NOTAM, in which the upper limit will also
be specified. Pilots intending to transit to
the north via the west coast must ensure
that the status of the MOAs is known
Drury
before departure. Red flags are normally
placed on the access road when either of
these areas is active.
Great Barrier
Arrivals
Island
From the South and West
General
Transiting via the Te Henga Transit Lane,
Parakai (NZPI) is a non-certificated
stay over the sea and not above 1500 feet
Kaipara Flats
aerodrome located 2 NM northwest of
until 1 NM past the Muriwai golf course,
Helensville. A moderate amount of light
at which point a climb to 2500 feet is
aircraft activity, including flight training,
available if required. Broadcast position,
takes place around the aerodrome. The
altitude, and intentions on 119.1 MHz
aerodrome is available for general use
(Parakai Traffic) passing Muriwai golf
for private operations, but commercial
Mercer
course, and track initially towards
operations require the prior approval of
Helensville (visible against the hills to
the aerodrome operator.
the north). From Helensville, follow the
The rolled white limestone runway general direction of the Kaipara River
North Shore
contrasts markedly with the surrounding to join overhead.
green fields and is easy to see
from a considerable distance.
Airspace
Parakai
47
Ardmore
2 NM short of Helensville.
Island
Join overhead.
carry out an overhead join. Circuit heights are 1000 feet for traffic
operating at more than 80 knots IAS, and
Local Operations 500 feet for traffic slower than 80 knots.
North Shore
Circuit Procedures
The runway is designated 07/25, with
Departures
the circuit directions left-hand on 07 Normal departure procedures apply,
and right-hand on 25. After takeoff from but for departures to the east and to
Runway 07, a mandatory left turn is North Shore, track to Kaukapakapa
Parakai
required on reaching the river, because before changing to the North Shore
of high ground beyond. Arriving on 25, CFZ frequency.
many operators prefer a close, curved
approach to avoid the same high ground.
Waiheke
48
Ardmore
Airspace
KE Waiheke Island
NZKE lies within the Hauraki Gulf CFZ.
Auckland
See the Airspace Overview, page 11,
for details.
Arrivals
Because of traffic transiting between
Drury
Auckland and Great Barrier Island, pilots
approaching NZKE from the west should
broadcast their position and intentions
Great Barrier
on 120.4 MHz before crossing the channel
Island
between Motutapu and Motuihe Islands
General and the western end of Waiheke Island.
Waiheke (NZKE) is a non-certificated Another broadcast is required when
aerodrome located on Waiheke Island. It is
Kaipara Flats
2 NM from NZKE.
situated on a ridge approximately halfway
Avoid overflying the residential area to
between Onetangi and Woodside bay, and
the north of the aerodrome. Overhead
2 NM east of Ostend. The grass runway is
joining is not permitted.
designated 17/35, and the surface can be
soft after heavy rain. Parachuting may take place during
Mercer
daylight hours. Avoid approaching
All aircraft arriving or departing NZKE
the aerodrome between the time the
must comply with the published arrival and
parachute aircraft starts its drop run
departure procedures to meet requirements
and the parachutes landing.
North Shore
imposed by the Auckland City Council.
Failure to do so may result in a ban on the
use of this privately owned aerodrome.
Parakai
Waiheke
Island
Whenuapai
49
Ardmore
Runway 17
From the South
Auckland
Join right-hand
downwind After landing, broadcast intentions,
RWY 35 and exit the runway via the taxiway
Join
at the southern end.
circuit
via 45 From the North
final
Mercer
Runway 35
Caution: Possible severe turbulence on short
final for Runway 35 in easterly conditions.
the south.
50
Ardmore
Local Operations
Pilots who are not on the
Auckland
Waiheke Aerodrome approved
operators list must contact
Waiheke Airservices to arrange
a briefing. See AIP New Zealand,
Vol 4 for details.
Drury
Landing and anti-collision lights
should be used at all times
within the vicinity of NZKE and
Great Barrier
Waiheke Island.
Island
Waiheke Airservices has priority
for arrivals and departures Waiheke aerodrome looking northeast.
(except in an emergency).
Kaipara Flats
Touch-and-go landings are prohibited. phase of flight, then change to 120.4 MHz
Avoid prolonged parking in the and broadcast departure intentions.
passenger set-down area.
Runway 17
No parking on the helipad this area is
Normal departure considerations apply.
used frequently by emergency services.
Mercer
Runway 35
Departure
After takeoff, make a 45-degree right
Monitor 120.4 MHz and broadcast
turn (as soon as practicable to do so)
North Shore
intentions before start.
to avoid overflying the residential area
After starting, call Waiheke Ops on 120.2 to the north and east of the extended
MHz and advise aircraft registration and runway centreline.
Parakai
Waiheke
Island
Whenuapai
51
Ardmore
operations.
Glider flying, parachuting, and model
aircraft flying, take place most weekends
at NZWP.
Parakai
Airspace
Located 12 NM northwest of Auckland
city, NZWP is encompassed by a
permanently active circular MOA of 3 NM
Waiheke
Island
52
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Auckland
Map folds out Whenuapai ATIS on 128.3 MHz and check
Auckland
Arrivals
if Whenuapai Tower (134.5 MHz) is on
towards the right Contact Whenuapai Operations on
watch. A clearance is required to transit
the CTR when the tower is on watch. If 135.1 MHz at least 30 minutes before
the tower is unattended, the Whenuapai arrival.
Drury
MBZ is active, and pilots must listen
out on 134.5 MHz and broadcast their
Terminate flight plans with Auckland CONTENTS
Control on 129.5 MHz.
intentions at intervals of no more than
Make standard MBZ and aerodrome Pre-ight Preparation .........5
five minutes.
Great Barrier
calls on 134.5 MHz. Kaipara Flats
Airspace Overview..............6
Island
At all times, pilots must remain clear of
the MOA, unless prior entry permission Departures Ardmore .......................... 14
has been granted. Contact Auckland Control on 129.5
WHENUAPAI
Auckland ......................... 28
Kaipara Flats
Transiting pilots should note that there MHz (or Christchurch Control, North Shore
126.0 MHz) for clearance and traffic Drury ............................... 35
is a busy civil heliport at Rosedale Road,
Parakai
(Airspace north of Auckland) 5 NM northeast of Whenuapai, on the
approach to Runway 21. Helicopter
information before departure.
Maintain listening watch on
Great Barrier Island .......... 36
Kaipara Flats .................... 38
traffic arriving at and departing from 129.5 MHz. Whenuapai
Rosedale Road heliport transmit their Mercer ............................. 40
Mercer
Two minutes before takeoff, report Waiheke Island
intentions
ready to roll on 129.5 MHz. North Shore ..................... 41
on 134.5 MHz if Whenuapai Tower is Auckland City
unattended. The heliport is marked on Make standard MBZ and aerodrome Parakai ............................ 47
North Shore
VNC D1 (1:125 000). calls on 134.5 MHz.
Waiheke Island ................. 49
Whenuapai....................... 52
Auckland Ardmore
Parakai
Drury
CAA Web Site
See the CAA web site for Civil
Aviation Rules, Advisory Circulars,
Waiheke
Every effort is made to ensure that the information in this booklet is accurate and up-to-date at the time
54 of publishing, but many changes can occur over time, especially in regard to airspace and legislation.
Readers are reminded to obtain appropriate up-to-date information.
Photo: Above Ground Level
P O Box 31-441
Lower Hutt 5040
Tel: 04560 9400
Fax: 04569 2024
Email: info@caa.govt.nz