18 adventurers turned a much-loved wharf into a runway as they sought to fly on Saturday.
All bombed out but thousands of spectators at the Murrays Bay Birdman Festival hailed their efforts a success.
Murrays Bay Residents Association president and event organiser Josie Adriaansen saluted the ingenuity of the birdmen and women, and their crews.
“This is a huge communal effort that brings Murrays Bay and Mairangi Bay together, so a big thank you to all, because it’s your support and contribution that makes it possible.”
The Hibiscus and Bays Local Board joined with the late Richard Beachman and the residents association in 2016 to rebuild the wharf.
Despite being miserably unsuccessful as a runway, it now boasts four viewing and fishing bays, and a wide jumping platform.
Board chair Julia Parfitt says the board is proud to support an event that showcases our landmark wharf and beautiful bays.
“Thousands of people come and it’s great to see families enjoying the day. Birdman dates back to the seventies and it’s such a wonderful way to connect with the community.”
Other sponsors were Fulton Hogan, North Shore Aero Club, Mitre 10 Mega Albany and Glenfield, Benefitz, Barfoot and Thompson Mairangi Bay, Mairangi Bay Surf Life Saving Club, Murrays Bay Sailing Club, More FM and Dr Feelgood.
For more, view the video and story on stuff.co.nz
