Singapore ponders pilot scheme
Singaporean officials are in talks with the New Zealand Government to set up a pilots’ training base at the Ohakea air base in Manawatu.
Minister of Defence Gerry Brownlee, who was among tens of thousands of people at Ohakea’s Air Tattoo celebrations at the weekend, confirmed early discussions have taken place and Singapore could chip in money to bolster facilities if the plan gets the go-ahead.
‘‘A feasibility study is under way,’’ he said.
Brownlee said New Zealand would welcome Singapore’s investment in the base as a training facility if the study identified Ohakea as a favourable location. The F-15 fighter jet was the only aircraft being discussed as part of the talks.
‘‘Singapore has made it clear to us that should they choose to invest in Ohakea they would make a significant contribution to ensuring the local community feels appropriately engaged, as they have done in other parts of the world where they undertake training, including Australia and the United States.’’
Chief of the air force Tony Davies said the Defence Force was always looking at ways to build on international relationships.
‘‘This is just another one of those initiatives that we are exploring. It’s right in its infancy stage.’’
Manawatu District mayor Helen Worboys said up to 500 personnel could come to the region, but it was not clear yet whether this number included air force families.
‘‘We don’t know the numbers yet. It’s very early days.’’
The Manawatu, Palmerston North and Rangitikei councils were supportive of the idea, she said.
‘‘We will roll out the red carpet – we will welcome them.’’
She understood it was the third time such talks had taken place between Singapore and New Zealand.
A positive result seemed more likely this time, she said.
The region’s economy could benefit and there could be impacts on jobs, housing and schooling, she said.