Parapente Bridge's Hill

Bridge's Hill is a South East facing paragliding site with a challenging yet rewarding launch. Located 8 kilometers west of Dill's Hill on West Coast Rd, the site is accessible via State Highway 16 past Kaukapakapa. Turn right onto West Coast Rd and drive 2 kilometers to the old fire station building; if you reach the new fire station, you've gone too far. The takeoff is at 900 feet above sea level, with a narrow launch area surrounded by trees, making it a difficult but exhilarating experience. The site is occasionally used and has a record inland flight of 39.2 km. Landing areas are available on the flats below, but be cautious of temporary electric fences. When flying low in the valley, be aware of potential sea breezes that can cause wind changes to the South West, resulting in turbulence. Weather and wind direction are crucial, with the site best suited for South East winds. Ensure wind direction is straight up the cut between trees and check wind streamers. The site operates on Radio Channel 20 - 476.900MHz. Paragliding here requires a PG 2 rating with at least 60 hours of flight experience. Hang gliding is restricted to advanced pilots. Due to the growth of pine trees in front of the top takeoff, extreme caution is required. The site is near the edge of controlled airspace (CTA) within GAA NZG 151, with a height restriction of 3,500 feet above sea level immediately above launch, increasing to 4,500 feet after passing a line to the north between Five Fingers and Dill's Hill. Access conditions include calling at the farmhouse before proceeding. The site owners, Mark and Poppy Keskic, are very friendly. Vehicles can be driven up only in very dry conditions, requiring a 4-wheel drive with good muffler clearance. Access is via the cattle race, and driving during milking time around 4 pm is not advised. For more information, visit: - [Cloudbase NZ](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-bridges-hill) - [Parawait](https://parawait.org/sites/bridges/) Site monitor: Jeff Ripley, contact at 027 288 8818. Notable achievement: In February 1994, hang glider pilot Ian Clark flew 143 km to Kaikohe in 5 hours, reaching 5,700 feet and setting a new NZ cross-country record. Watch a video of the site: [YouTube]( )