Taylor's Mistake

Taylors Mistake operates in uncontrolled airspace up to 3500ft AGL and GAA853 on ATC Approval up to 5500 ft AGL. The airspace is enjoyed by many other aviation participants from light aircraft, parachutist and model aircraft. All aviators have a right to use this uncontrolled airspace, it is not exclusive. A good pilot mitigates risk by remaining vigilant at all times, has good spatial awareness and follows CAA Visual Flight Rules (VFR) to keep a safe distance from other aircraft and avoid any potential conflict. In recent years there has been an uptake in free flight and model aircraft flying. This guide has been developed to help both HG/PG and model aircraft operators coexist when flying the Taylors Mistake area from Godley Head Road. This guide in no way overrules CAA rules 91, 101, 102, 106 and NZHGPA OPM (https://www.aviation.govt.nz/rules/ ). - Before you launch make yourself aware of any model flying activities already in progress at the Quarry area. - Model aircraft tend to take off and land via the gully in front of and immediately behind the quarry area. If you can keep clear of this area, particularly around road level, it will aid in separating model aircraft from paragliders/hang gliders. Note that this area can be turbulent for paragliders in strong winds and/or when the wind is off to the north. - The model aircraft will tend to fly out into the valley in order to keep clear of paragliders. They are trying to meet their obligations to give way to, and remain clear of, all manned aircraft on the ground and in flight. If so please give them the opportunity to do so. Remember, the only potential loss of life will be to the manned aircraft. - When launching your HG/PG or flying out from above the Quarry be aware that any model aircraft operators will be below you and looking out towards the valley. You will be behind their line of sight. You can help with separation by giving the model aircraft operators an opportunity to be aware of your presence, for example: - If launching above the Quarry, talk to any model aircraft operators on your way up to launch and discuss your intentions. - If model aircraft are flying, try and plan your flight to give space around the quarry area. - When flying out after launching, take a line above or right of the windsock until you are sufficiently forward to be in the model aircraft operators line of sight. - If the band of lift is small and it necessitates crossing in front of the quarry, try and make sure the model aircraft operators have had the opportunity to see you before you cross. - When model aircraft or other pilots are in close proximity to you, avoid sudden rapid changes of direction and dynamic manoeuvres. Model aircraft are required to keep clear, but they need to be given the opportunity to do so. - If you feel you have had a near miss or have had to take action to avoid collision with a model aircraft or any other pilot, please file an incident report (found on the NZHGPA Website under Safety). For filing an incident report, please gather as much information as possible at the time of the incident, including names and contact details of individuals involved, time and location, Car Registration, photos, contact details for any witnesses. - In the event of an accident, contact the Rescue Coordination Centre (0508 ACCIDENT) stating the location and “Fall from height”