Read more about the aircraft and pilots displaying in November

Avro Anson

  • Aircraft: Avro Anson Mk I ZK RRA

    The Avro Anson was meticulously crafted in response to an early 1930s British Royal Air Force requisition for a land-based coastal reconnaissance bomber. Its purpose was to complement the fleet of flying boats in the maritime patrol role. Initially, approximately three hundred of these aircraft were ordered and placed into frontline service prior to the outbreak of World War II. During the initial two years of the conflict, they played a pivotal role in hunting German submarines and surface raiders, safeguarding Great Britain's merchant navy convoys from assaults in the English Channel and North Sea.

    During the Dunkirk evacuation, an Anson achieved a remarkable feat of self-preservation by downing two Messerschmitt BF 109 fighters and damaging a third. Anson Squadrons were also actively engaged during the Battle of Britain, where they conducted bombing missions on the French Channel ports, where Hitler was assembling his invasion forces. By 1942, the majority of Ansons had been withdrawn from active service and were assigned the significant task of training pilots and aircrew as part of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

    This particular aircraft, one of over 11,020 eventually produced, was constructed in 1943 by Avro at their Yeadon shadow factory in the United Kingdom.

    This aircraft has undergone a faithful restoration to represent an Anson that met its fate on the second day of the war. Its New Zealand pilot, P/O Laurie Edwards, and crew were on patrol off the Dutch coast when they approached what they believed to be a U-boat periscope. Suddenly, they found themselves under attack by a German Heinkel 115 reconnaissance bomber. The Anson tragically went down in flames, with Laurie Edwards being the sole survivor of the four-person crew. Remarkably, the German aircraft, a floatplane, landed beside the blazing wreckage and rescued Laurie, who subsequently became the first Allied officer to be taken as a prisoner of war.

  • Years of piloting experience: 51 years

    Bill Reid's journey into aviation was inspired by his father, who owned a helicopter company and served as a fighter pilot during World War II. Growing up, he was deeply immersed in the world of aviation. During his school days and holidays, Bill worked diligently, sweeping hangar floors and cleaning up oil for the engineers, all in exchange for flying lessons. His initial training involved fixed-wing aircraft, but he later transitioned to helicopters, where he spent the majority of his career. Nevertheless, Bill always had a soft spot for vintage airplanes. In 1978, he made a significant purchase by acquiring the DH 82 Tiger Moth ZK-BFS, which is now proudly owned by Lucy Newell and Bevan Dewes and is prominently displayed at Wings Over Wairarapa.

    As for the aircraft Bill currently pilots, he operates the Avro Anson MkI ZK RRA.

    At the Air Festival, attendees can expect to witness Bill Reid and Ryan Southam jointly demonstrating the Anson's incredible maneuverability, especially considering its substantial size. They will also highlight its gentle handling characteristics, which have earned it the affectionate nickname "Gentle Annie."

    When it comes to advice for individuals aspiring to join the aviation industry, Bill emphasizes the importance of nurturing a deep passion for flying and maintaining a commitment to lifelong learning. He advises against the complacency of believing that one knows everything, as there is always more to discover. Even at his age, Bill continues to relish the challenge of acquiring new skills, whether they pertain to flying or engineering practices. He diligently stays informed by reading every accident report and keeping up with the latest industry developments. Thanks to resources like YouTube, Bill notes that many old wartime training films are being digitized, making it easier to explore and rediscover long-lost wartime techniques. Bill believes that by giving their all to aviation, individuals can expect to be rewarded in numerous ways.

  • Span: 17.22m
    Length: 12.87m
    Engine: 2 Armstrong Sidelley Cheetah IX Radials developing 410 HP for Take Off
    Max speed: 187 Knots (346 Kilometers an hour)

  • After 21 years of painstaking restoration and frequent appearances at airshows across the nation, Bill Reid has decided that it is time to entrust the stewardship of this aircraft to a new owner. As the last remaining example of an Avro Anson Mk I still flying in the world today, it serves as a living tribute to the countless Bomber and Coastal Command aircrews who operated this type of aircraft, whether in active combat or during their training in World War II.

    If you're interested in preserving this beautiful aircraft within New Zealand, please get in touch with Bill via email at rraviation@xtra.co.nz

  • You can take to the skies with her! The Avro Anson Mk1 ZK RRA will be offering joyrides, so if you're keen to experience the thrill of flying in this iconic aircraft, don't miss out.

DHC-1 Chipmunk

  • The De Havilland Chipmunk was a primary trainer designed by de Havilland Canada and first flew in 1946, the type was eventually manufactured in the UK, Canada and Portugal. They saw a long period of service with the last being retired from the RAF in 1996 I believe, the RAF still retain 2 aircraft as introductory tailwheel trainers for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight for the Hurricane, Spitfire and Lancaster.

    Built in England in mid 1952 this de Havilland Chipmunks first posting was to a small unit of the home command based at White Waltham Airfield on the west side of London, conveniently the closest airfield to Windsor Castle and was one of two Chipmunks used for the initial flight training of HRH Prince Philip, this very aircraft was the first aircraft Prince Philip flew and was the aircraft he conducted his primary stage flight test in. WP861 was then posted to various units and University Air Squadrons before being demobbed from the RAF in approximately 1971 then being exported to the USA before coming to New Zealand in 2004, Bevan Dewes purchased the aircraft in 2012 and has flown over 700 hours in the aircraft.

  • Introducing Bevan Dewes, a seasoned aviator with 13 years of flying under his belt. His passion for aviation ignited at a tender age as he gazed at topdressing planes landing on the farm airstrip. One of his earliest aviation memories dates back to Wings Over Wairarapa 2001, where, at just 7 years old, he marveled at the Skyhawks in action.

    This year, Bevan will take to the skies in his de Havilland DHC-1 Chipmunk at the Air Festival, a dream come true. Not only that, but the de Havilland display promises an exhilarating spectacle as Tiger Moths execute a breathtaking low-level formation and tail chase beneath Bevan's aerobatic prowess in the Chipmunk.

    Bevan's advice to aspiring aviation enthusiasts is simple: don't hesitate to get involved with vintage aircraft. Roll up your sleeves, grab a broom, and sweep the hangar floor, or lend a hand in cleaning the aircraft. In New Zealand, there are remarkable collections and organizations just waiting for willing volunteers. Bevan's journey took flight through such hands-on involvement, and yours can too.

  • Span: 10.46m (34ft 4in)
    Length: 7.75m (25ft 5in)
    Engine: Gipsy major 10-2 145hp
    Max speed: 155 knots

P-51 Mustang

  • The P-51D Mustang is widely considered the top fighter aircraft of World War II. Designed with the specific purpose of escorting and safeguarding bombers during their long-range missions, it possessed unparalleled capabilities in terms of altitude, speed, and range. With six .50 caliber machine guns at its disposal, the Mustang was an intimidating and formidable weapon in aerial combat. After World War II, these aircraft continued their service in the Korean conflict, functioning as both fighters and ground attack planes.

    This particular P-51D Mustang is a later model that rolled off the assembly line in the North American plant located in Inglewood, California, in 1945. Interestingly, it did not see any active service with the US Army Air Force. In 1951, it was transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force and remained in its service until 1959. Afterward, it went through various private owners until Sir Tim Wallis imported it to New Zealand in 1984. In 1990, Graham Bethell became the owner of this Mustang, which now bears the colors of NR 3 (Canterbury Territorial) Squadron, Royal New Zealand Air Force, a unit that operated Mustangs in the 1950s.

    A unique feature of this particular Mustang is the addition of an extra seat behind the cockpit, which was previously used to house a fuel tank. This modification allows for joy flights, offering passengers a chance to experience the thrill of flying in this iconic aircraft. The P-51D Mustang boasts an impressive wingspan of 37 feet (11.3 meters), a length of 32 feet (9.7 meters), and is powered by a 27-liter supercharged Rolls Royce (Packard) Merlin engine, producing a formidable 1,700 horsepower. Its maximum speed soars to 500 mph (804 km/h), making it a force to be reckoned with in the air.

    In conclusion, the P-51D Mustang's reputation as the ultimate fighter aircraft of World War II is well-deserved. Its role in safeguarding bombers, exceptional performance, and enduring legacy make it an aircraft of significant historical importance. The P-51D Mustang, presented in the livery of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, stands as a living tribute to New Zealand's aviation history and the contributions of this iconic fighter.

  • Graham Bethell has soared through the skies for over half a century, with an undying passion and an illustrious career that began with a profound family connection. Born and bred in the land of the long white cloud, Bethell's aviation journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of pursuing one's dreams, regardless of the challenges that lie ahead.

    For Graham Bethell, aviation is more than just a career—it's a legacy passed down from his father, who served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Navy during World War II. Growing up in the rural heartland of New Zealand, young Graham was surrounded by inspiration, with his heroes being the top-dressing pilots who elegantly navigated the vast expanses of the countryside. From an early age, he knew he wanted to take to the skies and follow in the footsteps of his father and those daring aviators who captured his imagination.

    As a testament to his remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to aviation, Graham Bethell is set to make an appearance at Wings Over Wairarapa 2023. The event will witness Bethell's stunning performance as he takes to the skies in the iconic P-51D Mustang, a true symbol of aviation history. During this aviation extravaganza, he will be treating the audience to a breathtaking solo aerobatics display, showcasing his unparalleled skill and expertise.

    But that's not all. Graham Bethell's involvement in Wings Over Wairarapa 2023 goes beyond the solo performance. He will also feature in other captivating displays, including a mock attack on the airfield and formations with other aircraft, provided these items are part of the program. His participation is bound to be a highlight of the event, a true reflection of his enduring dedication to aviation and his ability to thrill audiences with every twist and turn in the sky.

    For those who share Graham Bethell's dream of becoming a pilot, his journey serves as an inspiration. When asked about his advice for individuals looking to join the aviation industry, he offers some sage words of wisdom. "It is a fantastic way to earn a living," he says. "Don't be daunted by all the exams and experience requirements. Take it one step at a time, and you'll get there."

    Bethell's advice reflects not only his commitment but also his belief that anyone with the passion and dedication to soar through the skies can make their dreams a reality. His own journey is a testament to that truth, as he has spent five and a half decades achieving his aspirations and sharing his passion for aviation with the world.

  • Span: 11.3m
    Length: 9.7m
    Engine: 27 litre supercharged Rolls Royce (Packard) Merlin producing 1700 horse power
    Max speed: 500 mph

  • Warbird Adventure Rides offers you the opportunity to fly in America’s iconic thoroughbred fighter over Wings weekend.

P-40 Kittyhawk

  • The P-40 Kittyhawk is one of the important fighters of WWII. It was developed from the radial-engine P-36 Hawk by installing the powerful Allison V-12 into the older airframe. Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company began mass production in April 1939, when French and British orders were given priority.

    The P-40 held the line in North Africa, China and Burma, New Guinea and the Solomons, as well as on the Eastern Front. At the height of WWII the RNZAF operated nearly 300 Kittyhawks of various marks. In total over 13,000 were built.

    The Kittyhawk at our Air Festival, CA-G, was rebuilt from a wreck recovered from Papua New Guinea. The original aircraft had undergone urgent battlefield repairs, which explains the different markings on each side - the restorers kept these as a memorial to the wartime air and ground crews.

    Read more on their website.

  • Span: 11.37m
    Length: 9.67m
    Engine: 1,250hp Allison V-1710
    Max speed: 504km/h (378mph)

Tiger Moth

  • The Tiger Moth is probably the most popular vintage/warbird trainer on the commonwealth countries, a development of the early DH60 Gipsy Moth the Tiger was better suited to military training and more robust than its predecessor entering production in 1931 there were some 8,868 aircraft built until 1944 when production ended. It was the main stay of the commonwealth air forces for primary flight training before pilots moved on to the Harvard and then to bombers or fighters

  • ZK-ANL was built in England in 1939 and came to New Zealand early in 1940 with the serial number NZ861 it was operated by No1 Elementary Flying Training School at Taieri for the majority of the war before being placed into storage in late 1944 before being disposed off from the RNZAF. In its post war life it became ZK-ANL and was operated by the Hawkes Bay Aeroclub, it had great success in competitions and gained the name “Pot Hunters Special”. In 1960 it was converted to an arial spraying aircraft and it has the claim to fame of being the last aerial spraying tiger in the world, carry out its last commercial spraying job on the 28th December 1980.

  • BFS, or Queenie as she is now named, was built in 1940 at Hatfield in England and served its war years with the RAF primarily operated by No.14 Elementary Flying Training School with the serial number R4954 and RAF station Elmdon, which is only a few mild down the road from the famous Duxford Airfield. In 1954 the aircraft came to NZ being registered ZK-BFS, and went through various private owners before being stored for 24 years in a farm hangar in Ranfurly in central Otago. There Legend Aviation purchased the aircraft and over the period of 3 months got the aircraft airworthy again and repainted it in the striking scheme you see today.

  • Span: 29 ft 4 inches (8.94m)
    Length: 23ft 11 inches (7.29m)
    Engine: Gipsy major Series 1 130hp
    Max speed: 160mph

  • The Tiger Moths will be available for joy flights after the show and the Monday following the air show through Legend Aviation Ltd.

de Havilland Beaver

  • In an extraordinary revival of aviation history, Farmers Air of Gisborne has brought a classic back to the skies – the De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver. This iconic aircraft, renowned for its rugged reliability and unmistakable radial engine roar, is making a triumphant return to New Zealand's topdressing scene.

    The Beaver holds a special place in New Zealand's aviation heritage, particularly in Gisborne. Lawson Field founded Fieldair Ltd at Gisborne in 1951, and over the years, they operated a fleet of nineteen Beavers. The first of these, ZK-AZB, graced the skies from 1952 until retirement in 1983, now residing with Hallett Griffin as part of his topdressing aircraft collection. The last Fieldair Beaver was retired around 1988, leaving a void in the distinctive soundtrack of the Poverty Bay area.

    However, in 2019, Farmers Air initiated a revival by importing a Beaver from Kennedy Air, registering it as ZK-BVA (marking the second use of this registration, as the first ZK-BVA belonged to a Fletcher that met its end near Te Kuiti in 1972). This "new" Beaver has a storied history, beginning its life with the US Army in 1952, making it a venerable machine. Yet, Beavers are like a grandfather's trusty axe, proving their worth over the years. It was civilianized onto the US civil register in 1989, later finding its way to Australia in 1992 as VH-BVA. During its time, it had several owners and even operated on floats. By October 2016, it had flown a relatively low 12,900 hours for a 64-year-old aircraft. Following a comprehensive rebuild, it embarked on a journey across the Tasman via Lord Howe Island in January 2019.

    On January 28, 2019, ZK-BVA was officially registered to Farmers Air Ltd. At that point, it still retained its passenger aircraft configuration. The Beaver made a special appearance at the 2019 Healthy Bastards Bush Pilot Championships at Omaka, underscoring its status as a quintessential bush plane.

    However, Farmers Air had grand plans for ZK-BVA, aiming to use it to train the next generation of agricultural pilots with its dual control setup. To prepare for this role, the aircraft was sent to West Aero at Mercer for the installation of a hopper. Interestingly, the hopper came from the Jim Frogley Beaver, ZK-BBX, the last topdressing Beaver in New Zealand before being taken out of service due to damage in October 2017. After the hopper installation, the Beaver received a meticulous makeover at Hamilton Aero Maintenance, now sporting a classic Beaver scheme that harks back to its glory days.

    The culmination of this restoration was the Beaver's triumphant return to Gisborne, where it embarked on its first topdressing mission at Tangihanga Station on April 11, 2020. Chief Pilot and owner of Farmers Air, Andrew Hogarth, had the privilege of piloting the aircraft and reported that ZK-BVA performed brilliantly, leaving a lasting smile on his face throughout the day. Andrew envisions the Beaver as an invaluable addition to his fleet, offering a perfect platform for teaching agricultural pilot skills before transitioning to the Falco turbine aircraft, setting a course for a bright future in New Zealand's agricultural aviation industry.

  • With three decades of flying experience under his wings, Andrew's journey began when he was just a young whippersnapper at the ripe age of 15.

    Andrew's scheduled to take the skies at the Wings Over Wairarapa 2023 event, and what's truly special is his aircraft of choice: the iconic De Havilland Beaver. But this isn't your average Beaver; it's the only topdressing aircraft of its kind in the whole wide world! For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, seeing the Beaver in action will be an absolute treat.

    Now, you might be wondering why this plane is such a big deal. Well, let us take you back in time. From 1960 to 1980, Beavers like this one were a common sight in the Masterton and East Coast regions. They were on a mission - topdressing the land with all the precision of a Kiwi shepherd, making farming dreams come true. Those unforgettable days hold a special place in the hearts of many as it was their first taste of aviation.

    In Masterton, several companies were in the game, with Fieldair leading the pack. They had a fleet of 16 Beavers, making them the biggest Beaver operator around.

    But here's what makes Andrew's story even more special - aviation runs in his veins. His old man was a topdressing pilot, and young Andrew used to tag along during school holidays. On top of that, his mother, uncle, and grandfather were all glider pilots. Granddad even used to take him gliding on Sundays. So, aviation became a part of his life from the get-go.

    Passion and determination, folks, that's what it's all about. In the world of aviation, the sky's the limit when it comes to opportunities, but you've got to work for 'em. Andrew's got a piece of advice for all you budding aviators out there: out of 23 candidates on his CPL theory course, only around six went on to make a career in aviation. It's all about having the right stuff. Andrew's message to all the hopeful aviators is clear - your logbook's important, but it's your fiery passion, your history of hard yakka, your unwavering determination, and your good old Kiwi personality that really matter.

    So, when you catch Andrew in action at Wings Over Wairarapa 2023, remember that he's not just a pilot; he's a living, breathing testament to the spirit of aviation, passion, and determination.

  • Span: 48ft
    Length: 30ft 4in
    Engine: Pratt and Whitney R 985
    Max speed: 145mph

Strikemaster

  • "Strikemaster 72," a BAC 167 Strikemaster Mk88, holds a storied history as a former Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft, serving with 14 Squadron at Ohakea from 1975 to 1993. Strikemaster 72 was part of the second batch of six aircraft ordered three years into the program.

    These aircraft played a crucial role in pilot training, particularly during the advanced phase of the Wings Course. Pilots destined for the Strike Wing underwent additional training on the Strikemaster before transitioning to the A-4K Skyhawk. This training included air combat maneuvering, tactical formation flying, and precision aerial weapons delivery.

    Over time, the challenging New Zealand terrain led to fatigue cracking, notably in the wing attachment lugs. Strikemaster 72 and five other aircraft received new wings to extend their service life. Eventually, these remarkable aircraft were retired and replaced by the Aermacchi MB 339.

    Of the original 16 aircraft, three were lost in crashes, two were preserved for museums, and four became instructional airframes at Woodbourne. The remaining seven were sold and found new homes in Australia and the USA for Adventure Aviation.

    Strikemaster 72's journey took it from Australia back to New Zealand in 2011, where it was meticulously restored to airworthiness by Pioneer Aero in Ardmore. Today, it conducts private flights and makes appearances at air shows. Powered by a Rolls Royce Viper engine generating 3500 pounds of thrust, the Strikemaster was armed with Hispano cannons and fitted for rocket and bomb delivery. With a pressurized cabin and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet, it boasted a maximum speed of 450 knots (800 km/hr) and is a true delight to fly.

  • Charles Davis, a seasoned pilot with an impressive 35-year career, epitomizes a lifelong passion for aviation. His journey began near Ardmore Airfield, where he grew up captivated by the skies. As a child, he dedicated every spare moment to crafting model airplanes and eagerly peering over the fence at the local airfield.

    At Novembers Wings Over Wairarapa Air Festival, Charles promises a captivating display of the Strikemaster's capabilities. This versatile aircraft, once a jet trainer for the RNZAF and instrumental in preparing fighter pilots for the McDonnell Douglas A-4K Skyhawk, will take center stage. Charles's demonstration will span the full spectrum of the Strikemaster's capabilities, showcasing maneuvers from approach configurations to high-speed flights and aerobatics.

    For those aspiring to join the aviation industry, Charles offers sage advice: Get involved, nurture your passion, commit to diligent study, and absorb the wisdom of those who have tread the same path. His career is a testament to the exhilarating journey that aviation offers, and he underscores that the rewards are plentiful for those who invest their dedication and effort.

  • Span: 11.2m
    Length: 10.3m
    Engine: Rolls Royce Viper 535 8 Stage Axial Flow Jet Engine
    Max speed: 834 km/hr