Nelson Aviation College Partners Nelson Airport for Plane Spotting Photography Competition 2025

Nelson Aviation College is delighted to announce the 2025 Nelson Airport Plane Spotting Photo Competition. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our shared love for aviation and to highlight the incredible photographic talent right here in the Nelson region.

Whether you spend hours dedicated to plane spotting, enjoy capturing moments through your camera lens, or simply have a passion for aviation and a smartphone in hand, this competition is for you. We're keen to see all types of aircraft – from powerful jets to nimble helicopters, and even those everyday flights that connect us. The judges will be looking for striking composition, thoughtful use of light, and your personal touch in showcasing what makes Nelson Airport unique.

Get creative - we are excited to see Nelson Airport through your eyes.

Prizes Await, Including a Boeing B737-800 Simulator Experience at NAC. Imagine the exhilarating feeling of flying a commercial jet in our state-of-the-art simulator – a truly special experience for anyone fascinated by flight. We're proud to offer a prize pool that reflects the spirit of aviation.

Share Your Best in These Categories:

- Best Overall

- Best Youth (Under 18)

- Best Smartphone

Where to Capture Your Award-Winning Shots Around Nelson Airport:

- The Airport Perimeter Walkway, especially at the northern and southern ends, provides great views.

- The fence near Airport House offers a close-up perspective of Originair aircraft.

- Explore Dakota Place for charming shots of smaller aircraft.

- For unique, more distant backdrops, consider Harakeke Playground or Tāhunanui Back Beach.

- Inside the terminal, the upstairs observation area gives you a prime view of the airfield.

- For even more ideas and details, be sure to check Nelson Airport's dedicated Plane Spotting Locations guide.

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