We have known Paul Ensor for over two decades now. Treated with great respect and a mentor over the years. He is whanau.
A flight into town can be “Wow” or “Frightening” but with our most experienced pilot Paul Ensor it is okay. Eight minutes in the air is enough. On a nice day the view from the air is wonderful.
Our groceries are ordered online or telephone, but we still need Paul’s help to fly them over.
In the past we held fishing competitions sponsored by Island Air. Paul played a big part with helicopter ride treats and lolly drops from the air for the kids, finished with a big BBQ with fish caught by the 50 to 60 entrants. These were great times and Paul and his Pilots flying the whānau in to take part.
During the Rena disaster, there was again a heavy load of continuously flying with people hosted here on the Marae for weeks on end.
Paul goes the extra mile to bring groceries, petrol and diesel, not to mention hens, ducks and piglets, and more frequently, urgent supplies of cigarettes and butter!
Before the coming of age of the helicopter, Paul was there for us. In an emergency, you can be reassured the ambulance wailing to the last light and early rising sun as Paul carries the sick or injured back to the mainland – and he arranges the ambulance as well.
We are very grateful for Paul whenever he is needed in a medical emergency.
And so thankful for Paul’s services being available on demand. He also brings in the Flying Doctors, school groups and visitors in the weekends.
By Hariata, Motiti Island resident
“I write for Bay Waka to reminisce over the good times.”
