How to get started in Aeromodelling
Starting out in this hobby can involve a fairly steep learning curve!
Far and away the optimal path to achieve success is to join a local club.
Club members can provide instruction in all aspects of the hobby and make your path to success simpler.
By joining one of these affiliated clubs you well then also become a member of Model Flying New Zealand and enjoy the benefits provided by the national organisation!
What model do I start with?
A lot of modelers began with rubber power, free-flight, or foamy slope soarer models.. either as kids or adults! These are still a good way to begin and to learn the fundamentals of flight. Others begin with powered Radio Control models, which is the most common type of model aircraft in New Zealand. If you do this you should aim to join a club in your area and seek advice from modelers who can help you get started with the least amount of pain!
Flying Radio Control can involve a fairly steep learning curve, often the best place to start is a simulator which come in hugely varying variety, from free cell phone apps through to VR, from slope soarers to FPV racing.
Radio Control Systems
Modern RC system can control multiple models from one device, making it an investment. You can control anything from 2 through to 100s of functions, with gear ranging from very cheap and simple through to very complex systems that nearly run their own programming languages.
Trainers
These can either be built from a kitset or purchased as an ARF (Almost Ready to Fly) model. Sometimes the radio gear is supplied with an ARF model, and will be labelled RTF ( Ready to Fly )
Parkflyers
Small, light weight electric models often constructed of foam – are a popular facet of model aviation, offering a fun and relatively low cost entry into the hobby.
Model Flying New Zealand
New Zealand’s Model Flying Community