The Christchurch Model Aero Club (CMAC) has been in existence for over 70 years.
We have two official logos – the one on the header at the top of this page can be downloaded here as a transparent background TIFF or here as a JPG with a white background (and if you see Andrew Palmer at the field ask him from some free stickers and water transfers of this logo). The original club logo is this:
Formed in 1949, the club initially flew control line at Hagley Park and Abberley Parks. Free flight was flown at Branston Run. The club then moved to the western side of Miners Road and later to the eastern side of Miners Road where both free flight and radio control were flown. When a runway extension to Christchurch Airport was proposed the club moved to Peter Stotts farm before moving to the current site at ‘The Willows’ (Thompsons Road, West Melton) in 1995. Since then we have been lucky to have the use of this piece of land, which is now leased by Environment Canterbury. The club has an excellent relationship with Environment Canterbury and we are mindful of minimising our impact on the local environment.
The flying field sits in an attractive rural environment offering a flying venue second to none. The club includes both sport and competitive pilots, across all disciplines. We all love planes, modelling and flying.
Our grass runway is maintained to a high standard suitable for all types and sizes of models. The runway is approximately 110m long.
Club members can use the field seven days a week during daylight as long as they observe MFNZ, CAA and club rules. We are fortunate to have a designated danger zone and are privileged to have a height limit of 1250 feet above sea level for our flying.
The Club has an excellent safety record and is proactive in limiting noise. We have an excellent rapport with our closest neighbours and in order to maintain that relationship we do not use internal combustion engines before 9am.
Fliers have all weather access to the field that allows us to operate through the winter months, even with significant rain the paddock remains dry underfoot – one advantage of being on an old river bed!
The club has a membership of approximately 80 encompassing all ages. New fliers are always welcome and we offer free introductory flights using the club’s aircraft and buddy box system for those wishing to embark on the great hobby. Or just come on out and have a look and a chat – we would love to see you.