Thames Aerodrome facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thames Aerodrome
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| Summary | |||||||||||||||
| Operator | Thames-Coromandel District Council | ||||||||||||||
| Location | Thames, New Zealand | ||||||||||||||
| Built | 1940 | ||||||||||||||
| Elevation AMSL | 10 ft / 3 m | ||||||||||||||
| Coordinates | 37°9′36″S 175°32′58″E / 37.16000°S 175.54944°E | ||||||||||||||
| Website | http://www.tcdc.govt.nz/Our-Services/Airfields/Thames-Airfield-NZTH/ | ||||||||||||||
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The Thames Aerodrome is like a small airport located near the town of Thames. Thames is a town in the Waikato region on the North Island of New Zealand. This aerodrome is about 3 kilometers (or 2 miles) south of the town. It's a place where smaller planes can take off and land.
Contents
What is Thames Aerodrome?
An aerodrome is a place where aircraft can operate. It's often smaller than a big international airport. The Thames Aerodrome is mainly used by smaller planes, like private aircraft, planes for flight training, or those offering scenic flights. It has two runways, both made of gravel.
Runways at Thames
The aerodrome has two main runways. They are marked with numbers that show their direction.
- Runway 14/32: This runway is about 1,112 meters (3,648 feet) long.
- Runway 05/23: This one is about 707 meters (2,319 feet) long.
Both runways are made of gravel, which is common for smaller aerodromes.
Honoring a Hero: Sir Keith Park
The Thames Aerodrome is named in a special way. It honors a very important person called Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park. He was a former resident of Thames.
Sir Keith Park's Role in History
Sir Keith Park was a brave and skilled leader during World War II. He was the Commander of 11 Group Fighter Command. This group played a crucial role during the Battle of Britain. This battle was a major air fight in 1940 where the British Royal Air Force defended the United Kingdom against attacks from the German air force. Sir Keith Park's leadership helped protect his country. Naming the aerodrome after him is a way to remember his courage and contributions.
Who Manages the Aerodrome?
The Thames Aerodrome is managed by the Thames-Coromandel District Council. This council is the local government for the area. They make sure the aerodrome is safe and well-maintained for all the planes that use it.
