Ash cloud affects Fieldays

Cancelled domestic flights across most of the South Island due to ash clouds mean hundreds were unable to attend the Fieldays, including one exhibitor.

Trial Journeys, which run guided tours along the Otago Central rail trail, have been unable to fly out due to ash from the eruption of Chilean volcano Puyehue.

The ash cloud has caused the cancellation of flights on several airlines including Air New Zealand.

Managing director Neville Grubb said this would not have a financial effect on the exhibitor.

“The immediate effect is not being able to attend the Fieldays. There will be a promotional effect for us as we’re unable to fulfill our marketing campaign.”

Fieldays general manager Barry Quayle said the cancelled flights would reduce South Island visitor numbers, which are typically between 2500 and 3000, by several hundred.

“I spoke to some who transferred from land to boat and vehicle to get here from the South Island.”

He was relieved that other exhibitors were still able to make it.

Another exhibitor, Australian-based Seasol International, had their Sunday flight delayed until the early hours of Tuesday morning. Executive assistant Samantha Gelsi said the delayed flights meant their exhibit was set up and manned by only one person on the first day, and had cost them about $2000 in accommodation and car hire.

Australian airline Qantas and its budget offshoot Jetstar have also had to cancel flights for much of this week.