Hang gliding and paragliding are both foot-launched flying sports but each is different in terms of training and flying, transport, and gear.
Hang Gliders are flown around the world for recreation and competition. In New Zealand, Hang Gliding is covered by the New Zealand Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association.
Auckland has a number of sites suitable for Hang Gliding, listed in the Flying Sites section.
There are currently no active Hang Gliding instructors in Auckland, but there are options in Whangarei, Raglan or Thames. The Auckland club however has pilots who will mentor "newly hatched novices" after their initial training to further their skills.
John Burton, based in Auckland. Can be contacted at:
Phone: 027 420 4094
Email: jeburton@xtra.co.nz
John's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRwkAtju5UPS0arznlAPXyA
Rick Hawkeswood operates Thames Coast Paramotors Ltd, based in Thames and can be contacted at:
Phone: 021 682 766
Email: rickhawkeswood66@outlook.com
Northland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club based instruction - Guntram Gross / Herman Ahrens
Guntram Gross:
Phone: 021 072 0357 / 09 436 0268
Email: skywalk@hotmail.co.nz
Herman Ahrens:
Phone: 09 432 9333
Email: hermanahrens11@gmail.com
For more information on learning to fly hang gliders, visit the NZHGPA Hang Gliding Schools webpage, lots of info there.
