It was not the display the team had hoped for as drizzly weather prevented the distinctive black aircraft from flying in close formation with their wing tips only a few metres apart.
But those attending still gained the thrill of speed as the aircraft shot across the sky.Black Falcons leader and Central Flying School commanding officer Squadron Leader Brett Clayton said the visit was part of a South Island tour to thank the public for its support during the air force’s 80th anniversary this year.
"This is a pretty important milestone for Her Majesty’s service and it’s our opportunity to showcase this aspect of the air force’s capability to the New Zealand public."We had the air tattoo at Ohakea air base back in February, and we got to put on a couple of good displays over that weekend.
"This few days away from home is an opportunity to show the folk of the South Island what we get up to.
"Not everyone gets to go to where the airshows are at Ohakea, so we’ve taken our show to the people."
The display was also an opportunity to show the public the air force’s new Beechcraft T-6C Texan II aircraft. They are capable of reaching speeds of up to almost 600kmh and pull 7-G turns.
"They’re neat. It’s fully aerobatic, it spins, it can fly by day and by night and in all sorts of weather conditions.
"As the leader, I’ve got to keep the onset of G-force, the manoeuvreing and the rates of roll smooth and predictable so the guys can maintain a nice position around me. It’s a team effort.
"These are great planes to fly. It’s a good job — an absolute privilege to be part of."
He hoped weather conditions would improve today when the team flew to Queenstown to perform over Frankton Arm from 9.30am, and then in Te Anau for another display at 2.30pm.
The tour will conclude in Nelson tomorrow.
All performances were weather permitting, he said.
