This latest addition to the Flight Training Manawatu fleet is the twin jet turbo-prop aircraft which will enable commercial pilots to pursue advanced training suited to transition to larger commercial jets. The King Air is cabin pressurised and capable of flying at 30,000ft.

The plane is owned by Fly Wings International who contract Flight Training Manawatu to train international students. Fly Wings International co-ordinator Sanjay Mandavia was in the Manawatu last week to see the aircraft unveiled following its New Zealand CAA certification.

Michael Bryant (right), CEO of Flight Training Manawatu says training will be undertaken primarily under Captain Graham Webster who brings signicant experience into the training team. It is the only twin turbine aircraft in New Zealand dedicated to civilian pilot training.

The aircraft will be based operationally at Palmerston North International Airport. Its arrival just after 3pm today was marked with a brief function at the airport and a traditional salute from the airport rescue appliances - out in front of the terminal for visitors to watch.

Palmerston North Airport chairman Derek Walker extended a welcome to Flight Training Manawatu and the C90 aircraft. He said this is the first time that a twin jet turbo-prop aircraft has been based at the airport for flight training and is a reflection of the growing role of the Manawatu as a training hub.

Sgt Andrews of Linton Camp says there will be 15 red and 16 green flares fired in that period.

The flares will go up about 50 metres in specially designated air space above Linton Camp.

The latest package in the Wild Rover project is "The Country Road".

Set out in an easy to follow brochure which is both a map and guide, four self-drive touring routes offer a great way to explore and experience another scenic part of New Zealand.

The 'Stormy Point Route' takes visitors through the popular State Highway 54 between Cheltenham and Vinegar Hill. The guide has points of interest that even many of the locals won't have realised they have passed often.

The 'Peep-o-Day Route' takes in the spectacular country travelling the back way between Kimbolton and Mangaweka - check out the Cross Hills rhododendron gardens on the route.

The 'Pohangina Valley Route' reaches into the headwaters of the Pohangina Valley back via Apiti and links to the fouth route - 'The Iron Gates Route' in the backblocks between Apiti and Rangiwahia.

Congratulations to the communities who have come together to put this package in place! Its a 'must do' for visitors. The Country Road brochure is available at the Palmerston North i-Site, or the Feilding Information Centre. See also the Iron Gates Experience - www.irongates.co.nz