Paragliding North Head

North Head is a charming local soaring site in Auckland, New Zealand, offering picturesque views over the city and the Hauraki Gulf. Located on the northern side of Auckland Harbour at the tip of the Devonport peninsula, access is via Takarunga Road, Cheltenham. The site features designated launch and top landing areas. For N-NE winds, the takeoff is from the grassy area above the lower car park, near North Battery. For E-SE winds, the takeoff is from the summit, in front of the Fire Command Post. Landing options vary with wind direction. In N-NE winds, you can either top land or glide to Cheltenham Beach, though high tide reduces available beach space. In E-SE winds, top landing is preferred due to limited bomb-out options at all tide levels. If you have sufficient height, you can glide downwind to the midway part of Cheltenham Beach to avoid rotor behind the ridge. The site operates on specific radio channels: Channels 10 and 26 for schools, and Channel 20 (476.900MHz) for other flyers. Restrictions include: - Hang Gliding: Intermediate level - Paragliding: PG2 with 20+ hours Caution is advised when launching and flying close to Pohutakawa trees, and constant observation of wind direction is necessary to avoid being caught without land-out options. Be mindful of spectators and beach users when landing. North Head is within a VFR common frequency zone with a height ceiling of 2,500 feet and is on the boundary of the Mandatory Broadcast Zone. You cannot fly past the big gun on the southern side of the Head without a radio. As of January 18, 2019, the site is administered by the Tupuna Maunga Authority. The future of flying at North Head is uncertain, so exemplary behavior is crucial to maintain access. A maximum of four gliders is allowed in the air at a time, and designated launch and landing points must be used. For more information, visit: - [Parawait North Head](https://parawait.org/sites/north-head/) - [Cloudbase North Head](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-north-head) Site Monitor: Reuben Muir (09-446 0020 or 0274-727 013) Notable achievement: On January 17, 2004, Jeff Ripley flew to Takapuna Beach after reaching approximately 800 feet.