Mark Hardman

Mark Hardman took his first tandem flight in 1990 under the watchful eye of his father and under the piloting of Jocky Sanderson. There was no looking back. It would take more than fluro colours and pink t-shirts to put him off flying and he learnt in 1994. Aged 13.

Mark began training as an instructor in 2000 and has worked on and off as an instructor since 2002. He established Paraventures in 2006.

He is an active cross country (XC) and competiton pilot. If he’s not working (flying), he’ll be flying! If it’s not flyable, there’s a good chance he’ll be in his pack raft.

Mark’s been a committee member for Southern Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club, having held the positions of President, Secretary and Airspace Officer. He’s the current Training Manager for the New Zealand Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (NZHGPA) and has previously been the Vice-President, Secretary, and Paragliding Operations Manager. He’s been on the Paragliding Competition Committee and he’s organised the paragliding national championships on multiple occasions.

Mark’s contributions to the paragliding community were recently recoginsed by being awarded an FAI Air Sport Medal.

Flying is undoubtedly his passion, and sharing the joy is one of his highest priorities in life.