We love when guests make our home theirs, and participate in whatever is going on.

Over the years this has included rabbit shooting from a Robinson 22, killing a cattle beast, walking a mustering beat on the hill,  and helping install a pivot irrigator.  This year as well as helping feed the pet lamb and raising the pups, we added a whole new level of excitement.

In the middle of a very dry spell, we had a grass fire.  Hardly over introductions and part-way through coffee we received the emergency call on the homestead radio telephone.  Our guests immediately offered help and soon found themselves amongst the smoke, helping with stratagies and shifting vehicles.    Next came a trip to Tarras village to help prepare and dispatch the local fire brigade water tanker –  because there weren’t enough fire-fighters!!  They were astonished, and decided we’d have all been arrested if it were the UK!    But, this is very rural Tarras.  (The fire smouldered and burned under a heavy thatch for two days,  until a miracle 1 ½ “ rain put it out.  And our guests were instantly on familiar terms with everyone at Geordie Hill – they were absolute stars).  Thank you Martin and Ruth.

February 5 was the birthday for 10 healthy huntaway pups. These grew quickly and became a constant source of interest for guests over the next two months. Even to the extent one guest placed a bet Jo she wouldn’t be able to find homes for them all within the year. And as of yesterday – 12 May – Jo won the bet!

These pups are bred to hunt sheep away (hence the name). They typically have a big bark, and work behind the sheep, and in the sheep yards. But not all from this litter will live on farms – they can also make good pets. Darren our plumber is the proud dad of one – a little guy they named Geordie. How cool is that?

After years of anticipation, the Flyinn and Geordie Hill homestead received a fresh look. Planned between Flyinn seasons, the builders turned up as our last guests departed, and we moved in three days before the new season guests arrived. Perfect.

The result is better than we imagined, and this season Flyinn guests enjoyed a whole new experience. Dining on the deck and joining in around the island bench while the last of dinner was prepared. Cosy warmth by the open lounge fire, and a whole new view of the valley.

“I finally made it!” said a cheerful CarolAnn as she walked into the Geordie Hill kitchen.  With her Mooney safely tied down at nearby Wanaka Airport, she was about to switch to the high wing Cessna , and spend the next 8 days flying the Southern Alps and regions of New Zealand.  CarolAnn had invited her long time mechanic and engineering mentor, Arthur Miller from the USA to join her on this vacation and adventure. Continue reading →

Easter, every second year the local Wanaka airport  hosts world renown, Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow.  The show draws much interest and fits perfectly to end the Flyinn Season.  Easter Saturday dawned clear and still, and stayed that way all day.  Flyinn guests and pilots relaxed in their own space viewing the airshow from a private enclave.   Continue reading →

The Flyinn Season is exciting, rewarding and full of variety. Guests for 2009/2010 have included families, returning guests, groups of friends, partners where both are pilots, and single pilots introduced through Flyinn to share the adventure. Pilot flying hours ranged from 200 to 5500. Guest occupations and interests cover a huge variety. Within our itineraries we strive to creat a Flyinn experience to suit you.

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