Two RNZAF/RNZN SH-2G Seasprite helicopters will join with a historic Catalina flying boat to conduct a formation flight over Auckland this Monday (May 16), in celebration of No.6 Squadron’s extensive contribution to New Zealand’s armed forces.
The Catalina became the first aircraft to be operated by No. 6 Squadron during World War 2, with a service life spanning 11 years from 1942 to 1953. Former RNZAF Catalina navigator Stephen Sharpe will be onboard the aircraft as it flies over Auckland, which is expected to get airborne alongside the Seasprites from Whenuapai at approximately 1 pm on Monday.
The formation will then head out down the coast from Browns Bay, around North Head and up the Harbour past the bridge and circuit around to repeat. Once over the bridge, they are expected to fly towards Takapuna over the city before returning to Whenuapai. The RNZAF advises that the best vantage points to view the formation will be at North Head and Mt Victoria.
