NZ Civil Aircraft

A Selection from Tauranga during SAANZ Flyin

2012-01-30T10:21:00.002+13:00

I travelled down to the SAANZ flyin at Tauranga on the Friday, which was the judging day for aircraft. Unfortunately the weather was not good during the day with a fast moving front crossing the North Island, but it cleared up nicely in the late afternoon.

The numbers of sport aircraft were well down on previous flyins with only around 25 visiting aircraft tied down overnight in the area allocated to SAANZ. (I recall there were about 80 sport aircraft at the last Tauranga flyin 2 years ago).

However there is always something interesting to photograph, and hangars to poke around in, so I will post what I found.

Seawind 3000 ZK-SWK has a Tauranga connection as it was built there by John Borman and a team of helpers. It is operated by Seaworks and it is owned by the Day Family Trust of Wellington.

Yak 52 ZK-YNZ is owned by ZK-YNZ Ltd of Pauanui Beach, and looked very colouful in the late sun.

And Europa XS ZK-EPA is a very active aircraft, and I saw it at Whitianga and Waihi Beach over the weekend.

New Kitfox at SAANZ Flyin Tauranga

2012-01-29T21:38:00.003+13:00

Not strictly part of the SAANZ flyin at Tauranga was this Kitfox Lite Squared N7800L which is to become ZK-ELE for L C Renwick of Auckland. (I bet you always wanted to know what a Kitfox Lite Sqared looked like!)

Question time # 146 re-visited

2012-01-29T08:19:00.000+13:00

We have not made much progress with this Question Time to date.
Sir Minty is on track with his suggestion that the first clue (above) was a propeller from a motorised glider.

This second view should clinch the deal real quick.

NZCH

2012-01-29T08:18:00.000+13:00

Three views of Christchurch International Airport from Bargeld01.
Top view is looking roughly southwest

Lower view is looking roughly south.

Crossing overhead to join downwind left hand for 02.

More from "The Coast" from Matt

2012-01-28T19:59:00.000+13:00

On its trolley at Hokitika on 24-01-2012 was the Schweizer 269C ZK-HGJ2 (c/n S1388) of Karamea Helicopters Ltd. This spent a couple of years in the UK before moving to NZ in 1991.

Another Hokitiaka based helicopter is the Anderson Helicopter's Aerospatiale AS 350B2 Ecureuil ZK-HKA3 (c/n 2887).

The Alister Yeoman Murphy Rebel ZK-JHY (c/n 513) from Ashburton.

Over from Rangiora was the Piper PA28R-201T Turbo Arrow 11 ZK-TWM (c/n 28R-7803275) of Transworld Motors Christchurch Ltd.

Christchurch today 28-01-2012

2012-01-28T17:17:00.000+13:00

Bargeld01 reports from Christchurch International, Saturday 28-01-2012.

The Massey University School of Aviation's Diamond DA40 ZK-MTJ (c/n 40.1020) was at rest over the tie down wires near the Aero Club

The "scoop" for the day; is this Cessna 172R ZK-NAD4 , which made a local flight and then continued on its way.
It is actually the old ZK-JLY which CTC Aviation Training flicked off to the Nelson Aviation College on 16-01-2012. On the 24th, ie last Tuesday, it was re-registered in the NA* registration block now being used by Nelson Aviation College.
FYI. The first two allocations of the NAD letters went to Boeing 737's for ANZ; the third allocation was for a GAF N24 Nomad.

Above; back in town briefly; is the Reims/cessna F406 Caravan 11 ZK-XLF (c/n F406-0057) of Kiwi Air from Gisborne. It dropped a sports team from the North.

Matt Hayes reports in

2012-01-28T13:49:00.000+13:00

Matt has reported in from "The Coast" with these four photos.
The first three are at NZHK on 24-01-2012 and the Beech was at NZGM on the 23rd.

Piper PA28-140 Cherokee ZK-CIV (c/n 28-20798) went on line at Omaka with the Marlborough Aero Club in about November of 1965. In February of 71 it went to Gisborne and has been there ever since. Firstly at the Gisborne Flying School; then quickly to the Gisborne Aero Club; then with R J Jones from January 1973. In August 1995 title changed to the Jones Dymock Syndicate.

AFAIK this Piper PA28R-200 Cherokee Arrow ZK-EBA (c/n 28R-7535101) has been with the Ashe Farms Ltd since new in 1975. And that looks like its original 1975 scheme.

ZK-ESK is a Piper PA28-181 Archer 11 (c/n 28-181-7890046). It reached NZ from the US in late 1981 for Eagle Aviation. A multitude of owners later it was listed on 28-04-2005 to Chris Elworthy of Timaru

A quick snap of Beech 200 Super King Air ZK-FDR (c/n BL31) departing Greymouth on the 23rd.

Rangiora locals on Friday 27-01-2012

2012-01-28T11:49:00.000+13:00

The new Evector Harmony LSA ZK-CGM2 now showing its "approved" registration layout.
See earlier blog for how it arrived with a "non approved" style.

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2012/01/evector-harmony-lsa-zk-cgm.html

Below we have four shots from Bargeld01.
The Robinson R44 Clipper ZK-IJA (c/n 0893) of Jasra Helicopters was circuit bashing before scurrying back to the Heli Centre at Christchurch International.

Below are three views of the Mike Flemming Phoenix Luton LA-4A Minor U/L ZK-CLL (c/n PAL/1153) out trying out its new propeller.

AOPA lunch at Loburn Abbey # 2

2012-01-28T11:16:00.000+13:00

Above is the Brent Ferguson (Air Loans) Piper PA46-310P Malibu ZK-MBU (c/n 46-8508094). This arrived in NZ for Brent on 23-01-1987 and operated under its US registration of N2482Y until becoming ZK-MBU on 18-10-1993.
Below is the Piper PA28-180G Cherokee ZK-DGG (c/n 28-7205225) as listed to E R and S C Bain of Hamilton.
Both these two (MBU and DGG) are photographed at NZRT, but were also at Loburn Abbey).

From Tapanui came the Cessna 180A ZK-TSM (c/n 180A-32678) of M J and M G Parks. This is a 1957 model which has served in Australia, PNG and lastly in the UK as G-BTSM. It is the last three letters of this UK registration that have created its ZK identity.

The Piper PA32-300 Cherokee Six ZK-OMT (c/n 32-40927) was ZK-ECV in a previous lifetime. It was listed to George Glaister of Milton on 18-12-2002 and re-registered as ZK-OMT on 26-02-2003.

A real Cessna 172: ZK-PDD is a 1959 veteran with the c/n of 172-46108 [about the eleven hundredth 172 built]. It came to NZ in 1994 after all those years in Australia. It is listed to F J and EM Bain of Pukekohe. ("PDD" being the initials of its original NZ owner).

Oops ! How sad, too bad - another photo of Cessna 180A ZK-TSM.

Thanks to Ivan and Sandy for permission to wander around their lovely airfield.

AOPA lunch at Loburn Abbey #1

2012-01-28T09:30:00.000+13:00

The AOPA lunch was held at Ivan and Sandy Campbell's Loburn Abbey airfield on Friday (27-01-2012). Here is a selection of the visiting aircraft.Below is the Cessna 172B ZK-CAA (c/n 172B-48413). Older than most of you guys !
First registered to Rural Aviation on 06-04-1961 for the Southland Aero Club. It is now with Murray Smith of Te Awamutu.

Piper PA28-140E ZK-DEK (c/n 28-72251554) is the Ian Begbie Cherokee up from Ashburton. This one spent its first ten years with the Canterbury Aero Club.

The DFV Syndicate's Cessna 177B Cardinal ZK-DFV (c/n 177B-01662) did its first thirteen years service with the New Plymouth Aero Club.

Piper PA18 Super Cub ZK-ERB (c/n 18-5290) has a story to tell. Briefly it began its life as ZK-BNS in the ag role with Aerial Farming of NZ Ltd in December of 1956, moving to Hawkes Bay Aerial Top Dressing Co Ltd in early 1960. From 1966 until 25-10-1989 it was with the Southland Gliding Club. Following this date it required a substantial rebuild - from which it ultimately became ZK-ERB on 18-02-2000 with the ZK-ERB Super Cub Partnership. It is now a member of the Marlborough Aero Club.

ZK-MAG is a Cessna 172P Skyhawk 11 (c/n 172P-75101). After thirteen years in Oz it came to NZ in 1995. Currently listed with Melville Bain in the Hamilton area.

AOPA Fly through Rangiora 27-01-2012

2012-01-28T08:24:00.001+13:00

AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) are currently on a bit of an outing. About midday Friday (27-01-2012) a selection of aircraft dropped briefly into Rangiora for fuel before proceeding up to join many others at Loburn Abbey for lunch. Some of these include:- Above: the Cessna 182R ZK-CAH2 (c/n 182R 68419) of Gynacc Air Ltd from Auckland.

Cessna 172M Skyhawk ZK-DHV (c/n 172M 61063); originally a New Plymouth Aero Club aircraft from 1973; now listed with Rutherford Associated Ltd from Geraldine.

Above is the John Rutherford Maule M-5-210C Strata Rocket ZK-FNG (c/n 6033C) down from Landsborough in North Canterbury. This Maule was originally imported in late 1986 for Pollux Aviation of Makarora.

An NZRT local, but also a participant, was the Cessna 182R Skylane ZK-JPN (c/n 182R 67795) of Stephen Brown.

Up from down Gore way was the Stoddard Hamilton Glastar ZK-NMG (c/n 5591) of Allan Brocket.

Bigger brother, Glasair Sportman 2+2 ZK-SPO (c/n 7071) is from Feilding with Graeme Donald

This is now powered with an IO-360 with a tuned exhaust - giving around 200hp.

More from Rangitata Island.

2012-01-26T22:47:00.002+13:00

Bargeld01 also got into Rangitata Island today (26-01-2012). Here are five shots from a selection he offered.

First view is on final for grass vector 30 on the Russell Brodie strip at Rangitata Island. Hangars and house on the right among the tress, with the "Moth Manor" just on the left of the grass vector.

I make no apologies for showing the Cessna 180A ZK-BUQ of Skydiving Kiwis again.

Rangitati Island is the "home" of the Rans in NZ, with East Canterbury Aviation being the NZ agents.
Above is the Rans S-10 Sakota ZK-ECA2 (c/n 0393157) built up by the Company in 1994 and then owned by four private owners before rejoining East Canterbury Aviation on 20-05-2006.

Somewhat similar looking - is the Rans S-9 Chaos ZK-KLI (c/n 0593123) initially with M Brown of Whitianga from June of 1994, before moving to Hasting in 1995. It came south to Owen Marsden of Geraldine in December of 2001 and is now listed to the Geraldine Syndicate.

Above is the Russell Brodie Eipper Quicksilver MX 11 ZK-MXK (c/n MAANZ/296). This is a real grass roots flyer, fast approaching thirty years old.

Hunter back in the sky

2012-01-26T22:32:00.000+13:00

Tauranga based Hawker Hunter ZK-JIL has returned to the skies of NZ following a lengthy stint as a museum piece. Thanks to Wings Over New Zealand http://rnzaf.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=experimental&action=display&thread=15237&page=1 for the coverage of this fantastic event.

Wanaka 2006, MRC photo

A Blunt Energy Drink?

2012-01-26T22:24:00.000+13:00

Spied at Ardmore 26 January in this somewhat interesting scheme was locally based BAC Strikemaster ZK-STR, no doubt in anticipation of action at this weekends Tauranga Air Show.

Skycatchers coming together

2012-01-26T22:23:00.000+13:00

Further to a previous post, Flightline at Ardmore are actually preparing three Cessna 162 Skycatchers and not just two originally observed with the Napier bound machine also on location. All three had their ZK markings applied 26 January and are seen here continuing to have work carried out before first flights in NZ.

Arundel (Rangitata Terrace) Simla Airstrip visit

2012-01-26T20:35:00.000+13:00

Bargeld01 has us on final for the Arundel Simla airstrip alongside the Rangitata Terrace Road today.
The Simla homestead is to the right at this end of the strip, across the irrigation canal which seems to be running at full noise.

The hangar is the residence of the Cessna U206G Stationair 6 ZK-JDV (c/n U206-04775).
See previous JDV blogs at:-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/02/cessna-u206g-zk-jdv.html

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/11/further-up-rangitata-river.html

Cessna P206E Stationair 6 11 ZK-FJH (c/n P206E-00634) of Wilderness Wings rests on the pad.
Previous FJH blogs at:-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/11/further-up-rangitata-river.html

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/12/change-of-hats-for-zk-fjh.html

The Dave Horsburgh (Barnstormer Enterprises) Piper PA28-181 Archer 11 ZK-FIX (c/n 28-7990559) was in from Ashburton.

Homebuilt Aircraft at MOTAT

2012-01-25T21:05:00.003+13:00

In my final post on civil aircraft from the MOTAT display collection, I will focus on homebuilt aircraft, as follows:

The Tui Sport ZK-ADV displayed is a replica built by MOTAT volunteers. It does however feature its original Szekely SR-3 engine. The original Tui Sport was built by Fred North during the early 1930's and it was based on the Lincoln Sportsplane. It first flew in January 1934 and it proved to have good speed and maneuverability. It was not impressed into RNZAF service during WW 2 but was operated by Auckland aero Club. It crashed at Ohope beach in August 1941.

The HM 14 Flying Flea (French: Pou du Ciel, literally "Louse of the Sky"!) was developed by Frenchman Henri Mignet in the 1930's and he published plans to construct the aircraft in 1934. The plans were translated into English and were published in Popular Mechanics magazine in 1935, which resulted in many Flying Fleas being built around the world. It featured a tandem wing design which unfortunately suffered from wing interference problems when powered by more powerful engines than the prototype. This problem resulted in an inability to be able to pull out of a dive and led to many fatalities including one in New Zealand. This problem was solved but the reputation of the Flying Flea never fully recovered.

In New Zealand, Flying Fleas were allocated registrations in the ZM series, and at least 12 Flying Flea projects were commenced, with several achieving flight. 3 Fleas were registered as ZM-AAA, ZM-AAB and ZM-AAC. A partly built Flea project was donated to the Asburton Aviation Museum and was completed by a team of volunteers for static display in the early 2000's, and is painted as ZM-AAM.

The MOTAT example ZM-AAA was built by Eric Perkins and Leonard Hawke at Waipukurau, and was completed in 1936. There is no record of it having flown, but it did make several "hops".

The unregistered Everson gyroplane was built by brothers Ron and Ernie Everson at Auckland in 1962. It was initially tested as a gyroglider and was towed behind a car at Muriwai Beach. It was later fitted with a motor and although never officially certified it did apparently achieve successful flight.

Interestingly, there is reference at MOTAT to the Everson Brothers having built several aircraft and "most of their aircraft did achieve flight". I would be interested to find out more about their aircraft - can anyone add anything?

Flaglor Sky Scooter ZK-EYL (c/n AACA/367/1) is an example of a more modern homebuilt aircraft. It was built by Les Zimmerman of Auckland and was first registered on 18/4/87. It was donated to MOTAT in 1991 and was cancelled on 27/2/92.

And finally, an unmarked Gere Sport biplane is displayed. I cannot find any New Zealand connection for this aircraft and I am not sure why it is on display - again, can anyone add anything here? There is now a Gere Sport aircraft registered in New Zealand being ZK-EFZ which was built by Alan Belworthy at Cust and was first registered on 24/11/10.

A blast from the past.

2012-01-25T20:06:00.001+13:00

I have been very fortunate to get my sticky mitts on the slide collection belonging to CMM.
From time to time I will blog a few of these to stimulate your phagocytes.
Maybe even get some comments as I have no dates or place names for these photos.
This is Fletcher Fu24 ZK-BIO (c/n 42) listed to Cable Price Corporation Ltd on 12-12-1955. It first flew on 10-03-1956 and gained its c of a on 11-07-1956. As is fairly obvious it went to Robertson Air Services Ltd and carried fleet number 6 from 24-09-1956.
From memory this was the first FU24 re-engined with the 240hp motor, which would have been about mid 1957. In the above shot CMM advises that it hase the 300hp engine.
It was flown by such illustrious characters as Len Holden and Peter Sylvia.
On 22-11-1980 it first flew as a Fu24-950M but was involved in a fatal crash at Arohena on 29-06-1982.

Two more views of ZK-BIO, probably taken either side of the CMM pic.
Above as seen at Te Kuiti on 05-03-1969.
Below is at Hamilton on 03-09-1979. With the larger registration as mentioned in the comments below.

Question time # 146

2012-01-25T19:17:00.000+13:00

Tell me all !

Yak 52TW ZK-YTW loss.

2012-01-24T06:17:00.001+13:00

I am sorry to have to report that the Yak 52TW ZK-YTW (c/n 0312502) was destroyed in a fatal accident at Timona Park on the eastern outskirts of Feilding yesterday (23-01-2012) with the loss of its well respected owner and friend.

This aircraft was built by Aerostar in 2003, serving on the US register as N190TH from October 2003. It then became N52JC and finally N222XS in July of 2007.

It was imported into NZ and became ZK-YTW on 13-10-2008.

It was listed to the Chipleigh Trust of Palmerston North on 12-11-2010.

Hughes 269C ZK-HYQ is in town

2012-01-23T22:49:00.000+13:00

The Hughes 269C ZK-HYQ (c/n 39-0777) has been at Pacific Aircraft Services for several days now. It is currently registered to Cornwall Farms of Longbeach, Ashburton. Photo above was taken on 20-01-2012 and long lens shot below was taken today (23-01-2012) by BARGELD01

This was imported from Japan for Rick Lucas Helicopters and first listed on 28-01-2005. In late 2006 it moved to Harry Devonish and then to Conifer Grove Trustees Ltd in November of 2010.

Pik 30 ZK-GST

2012-01-23T14:06:00.002+13:00

I am saddened to report that the glider that crashed with fatal results at Snowy Top in the Diadem Range, about 20km west north west of Omarama on the 18th of January was the Pik 30 ZK-GST (c/n 717).

This motorised self launching glider joined our register on 21-11-1985 listed to C D Drummond, A F Moss, C A Rennie and D Budge of Nelson.

Ownership changed to Chris Richards and J N Greene of Blenheim on 01-11-1988.

It was transferred to Michael John (Jo) McKellow of Darfield on 24-09-2008.

Events : Both on February 12th

2012-01-22T20:18:00.001+13:00

I have been advised of the following two events:-

COMBINED CLUB DAY AND 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF MISSING DE HAVILLAND DRAGONFLY ZK-AFB

On Sunday 12 February, aviation historian, the Rev Dr Richard Waugh, has organised a fun day of activity to highlight the 50^th Anniversary of the disappearance of de Havilland Dragonfly ZK-AFB. This aircraft used to be part of the Aero Club fleet in the early 1950’s but after being sold was used by a Christchurch Airport based company, known as Air Charter, to operate scenic charter flights. On 12 February 1962 it disappeared, without trace, whilst on a flight between Christchurch and Milford Sound.
The anniversary activity is being held at West Melton airfield between the hours of 0930 and 1600 on the Sunday, 12 February 2012. The Aero Club has agreed to assist with this event, which will include a Club Day hosted by the West Melton branch of the Club as well as the presence of vintage aircraft, car and motorbike enthusiasts. The Tiger Moth Club, Jaguar Car Club along with other historic aircraft and motor-bikes with a British theme will be attending etc.

8888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888

posted in "Otago Aero Club"
Taieri airfield

Lady Jane

The Southern DC3 Trust are offering at the
Wings & Wheels Open Day February 12th 2012
SPECIAL DISCOUNTED Dunedin City Scenic Flights.
Adults - $99
Children 4-14yrs - $49
Infants 3yrs & Under Fly for FREE
All Children & Infants must be accompanied by an adult.
Give Diane a call on 0800 DC3 FLY (0800 323 359) to reserve your seat now.

We have also had it confirmed that the RED CHECKERS will be down too.

Question time # 145 Resolved in nine minutes.

2012-01-22T16:58:00.000+13:00

Mit has scored.
It is indeed the DHC-2 Beaver ZK-CMW, cunningly disguised as NZ6001 in the Air Force Museun at Wigram.
This has featured on these blog pages before. See:-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/09/beavers-beavers-12-zk-cmw.html

Question time # 145

2012-01-22T16:09:00.000+13:00

I thought it was about time for a Question Time.We start the year with a nice easy one.

We all know what this is !
So tell me what type of aircraft it is mounted beneath ?
What is the registration of this particular aircraft ?

Works of art. ZK-HDE

2012-01-22T08:16:00.000+13:00

Continuing the earlier series about art works on aircraft I offer this view of the Hughes 369D ZK-HDE3 (c/n 61 0992D) currently still listed to Oceania Aviation. It was noted at Heli Maintenance in Christchurch on 21-01-2012.
Now if you can tear your optics away from the scantily clad damsel you may note that the engine bay clam shell door has several louvres and three locking catches on it. The louvres are air intakes for the air conditioner condenser and the extra hinge is to to help take the extra weight.

American Twins at MOTAT

2012-01-21T21:49:00.003+13:00

A couple of 1930's/40's American twin-engined, twin-tailed aircraft are also displayed in the new display hall at MOTAT. Unfortunately they were not very easy to photograph.

The MOTAT Lockheed L-10 Electra is displayed as Union Airways ZK-AFD, named Kuaka. ZK-AFD was first registered in June 1937. After Union Airways was nationalised it served with NAC. It was withdrawn from use in September 1951 at New Plymouth, and it was obtained by MOTAT in March 1967.

In fact the Electra in the photo is ex ZK-BUT which was operated by Trans Island Airway, being first registered in October 1957, after a long international career. It was damaged in a ground loop at Christchurch on 18/2/59 and it was cancelled on 22/12/59. The remains were used for fire training at Christchurch for some years and it was obtained by MOTAT in January 1968.

MOTAT still have the original ZK-AFD but it is not currently on display.

And the second American twin-engined, twin tailed aircraft displayed is Aerial Mapping's Beech AT-11-BH Kansan ZK-AHO.

This aircraft was purchased by the New Zealand Government in 1943 and it was modified as an air survey aircraft. It was shipped to New Zealand arriving in August 1943 and it was assembled at Hobsonville. Ownership transferred to NZ Aerial Mapping Co Ltd of Hastings in 1943 and they operated the aircraft for all of its long service life. It is displayed in the colour scheme that it wore late in its life. It was withdrawn for use at Hasting on 31/12/80 and its final flight was from Hastings to Hobsonville on 19/1/82. It was cancelled from the register on 16/6/88 and was obtained by MOTAT.

ZK-AHO was named Manu Ruuri from 1960, as photo'd above and which shows the detail of the modified aerial photography nose. This is another important historical aircraft for New Zealand, as it would have done most of the aerial photography of the country (in conjunction with Monospar ZK-AFF, but that is another story....)

New Robinson R44 Raven 11 ZK-HLA

2012-01-20T23:15:00.000+13:00

Also coming together nicely today at Heli Maintenance in Christchurch is this Robinson R44 Raven 11 ZK-HLA2 (c/n 10551) for Kaikoura Helicopters Ltd.
It comes complete with a previous UK and Irish history.

Evector Harmony LSA ZK-CGM

2012-01-20T23:09:00.000+13:00

Coming together nicely in Pat Scotter's hangar today (20-01-2012) at Rangiora today is the Colin Marshall, Evector Harmony LSA ZK-CGM2.
See also yesterdays posting at: http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2012/01/rangiora-this-day-19-02-2012.html

I would expect to see the "ZK-CGM" letters resited in a horizontal position shortly.

Todays Omaka offerings

2012-01-19T21:52:00.000+13:00

Andy Heap has forwarded this offering from Omaka today (19-01-2012).
Above is the Cessna 172 ZK-PDD (c/n 46108) first listed here on 12-08-1994 using the initials of its owner Paul D Dillon of Te Awamutu. Ownership moved over to South Pacific Amlink Ltd on 28-02-2002.
Previously on this blog at

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/10/photos-from-iffr-fly-in-at-taupo-1.html

Below is Cessna A185F ZK-DOC (c/n A185F-02318) recently listed to Teresa Wilkin of Balfour.
I still think of this aircraft as "Patrille II" the name it carried whilst with W R Jackson at Taieri between 1974 and 1988.
Previously on blog at

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/01/and-still-they-come-masterton-january.html

Good timing ! The Foxcon Terrier 200 ZK-UTC (c/n NZ2005) was initially listed as ZK-MEG on 13-10-2003 with Graeme Addison of Opotiki. It was sold to Tomino Cacciamani of Havelock on 01-07-2011 and was re-registered as UTC on the 14th.

What you see is not what you get ! This aircraft was built as a Cessna 175 Skylark (Cessna 172 with bigger engine and redesigned engine cowling) back in 1958, and indeed it is still registered a such. Originally power was from the geared Continental GO-300A with its humped cowling. It was rebuilt by Bill See in about 1992 and re-engined with a 180hp Lycoming O-360; and I guess was converted to a tail dragger at the same time. It was shipped to NZ and registered using Brian C Ruffell's initials to become ZK-BCR on 09-11-1995. It is currently listed to Shaun Gilbertson of Wanaka.

Hamilton 18 January 2012

2012-01-19T21:47:00.001+13:00

The circuit at Hamilton was hectic with CTC Aviation activity along with scheduled Air NZ Link activity and not to be outdone Sunair with their Aztec ZK-DGS and Cessna 172 ZK-DKK both departed with full loads.

Search and Rescue Services AS350B2 Squirrel ZK-HZM arrived from the west.

New Plymouth Aero Club operate Piper PA31 ZK-MJF on charter and aeromedical work.

Cessna 182P ZK-RLG outside Aeromotive.

Ardmore Visits

2012-01-19T21:38:00.000+13:00

First visit/s to Ardmore for 2012 has provided an opportunity to catch up with a few 'new ones.

NZ's first Skycatcher ZK-DNA underwent an identity change in in November 2011 taking up the historical marks ZK-AAC.

And the second and third Skycatchers are at Ardmore awaiting re-construction. N3040B is to become ZK-AMN with the Auckland Aero Club and I guess the one in the background could be N6006A slated to become ZK-VCG. An additional unit has been placed on the register for Air Napier as ZK-SKC.

A recent arrival in the country from the USA is Cessna A185F ZK-CBF.

Based at Waiheke Island with HeliScene, Robinson R44 ZK-HFG was having some attention at Heliflite.
http://www.heliscene.co.nz/

Heliops of Kerikeri registered this Robinson R44 ZK-HLL on 12 January this year.

Helilink/Airwork BK117 B-1 ZK-HOU (c/n 1041_ was out and about 19 January.

Northland Emergency Trust's third Sikorsky S76 ZK-IKM has been at Hawker Pacific for several months and it made its way outside 18 January. Noted in the Helicopter Flight Training hanger 19 January was NEST Sikorsky S76 ZK-IAL, perhaps associated with http://www.hft.school.nz/training/meifr.html

Aero L-39C ZK-CCP

2012-01-19T21:25:00.000+13:00

The visit to Wanaka 16 January also netted for the author Aero L-39C ZK-CCP (http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/12/aero-l-39c-albatros-zk-ccp.html).

The aircraft is currently registered to ADT Trust of Queenstown having arrived in the country from the USA in 2010.

And as luck would have it, the L39 flew from Wanaka to Woodbourne and Ardmore 19 January where it was again snapped by me!

Wanaka 16 January 2012

2012-01-19T21:21:00.000+13:00

A brief visit to Central Otago netted a number of aircraft at Wanaka on 16 January.

DH82A ZK-ALJ was out on scenic flight activities with Classic Flights.

Auster J1B ZK-AOB tucked in the hanger.

Cessna 172K ZK-CAP arrived in the country during 1998.

Piper PA28-140 ZK-DEB is a local resident and operated by Classic Flights

Cessna 206D ZK-EDI was well protected from the sun.

One of the smartest liveries on a NZ based EC130B4, Wanaka Helicopters ZK-HAC. It was previously registered to Acernus of Wellington who operate Citation Mustang ZK-MUS/2, a frequent visitor to Wanaka.

ZK-HLC the third is on Wanaka Helicopters Robinson R22 Beta.

Bell (Garlick) UH-1L ZK-HUE is registered to Central South Island Helicopters.

Another Wanaka Helicopters machine, Robinson R44 ZK-IST.

Cessna 172M ZK-JSG

Workhorse Cessna U206G ZK-MCG

Grunty Tecnam P92 Echo Classic de luxe ZK-TLS operated by U-Fly Ltd.
http://u-flywanaka.co.nz/

Pacific Aerospace 750XL Movements

2012-01-19T21:03:00.000+13:00

Its been a week of home grown Pacific Aerospace 750XL movements with ZK-XLE visiting Auckland 18 January arriving from its Gisborne base and in a passenger configuration.

Wanaka based example ZK-ROK/3 was making the most of the stunning Central Otago weather on Monday 16 January.

Central Aviation’s P2-BWC was static at Hamilton 18 January having arrived back in the country on 08 January.

And yet to make its way north to PNG is P2-OMA with this aircraft visiting Ardmore’s Hawker Pacific facility 17 January.

ZK-HIR at Kaikoura

2012-01-19T20:44:00.000+13:00

Captured at Kaikoura today (19-01-2012) by Bargeld01 was the Robinson R22 Beta ZK-HIR3 (c/n 2620) from the Nelson Aviation College of Motueka.

Rangiora this day. 19-02-2012

2012-01-19T16:13:00.000+13:00

Allan Bowman has beaten me again !
Below is the arrival of Colin Marshall's new Evector Harmony LSA ZK-CGM2.
It is the top of the range modelwith glass cockpit, auto pilot, a glider tow hook and is Rotax 912ULS powered.
The flat box in the background contain the wings. So - more on this tomorrow !

Outside Aircraft Logistics Support shop is the Tecnam P2002 Sierra ZK-LUX (c/n 297) of Frank Luxton of east Ashburton.
This was originally with Auckland Flight Training Ltd as ZK- JAX2 from 22-04-2008 and transferred to Frank on 20-10-2009.

2012-01-18T21:52:00.000+13:00

Allan Bowman reports a quiet day at Rangitata Island today (18-01-2012) with just this Cessna 172K ZK-CSU (c/n 172K-58915) calling in. It is listed with Thomas Corbett of Mayfield, South Canterbury. This was a Rex Aviation import in February of 1970 and went to the Rex Flying School. Next move was to the Slipper Island Resort in August of 1975. In May of 77 it was with R Moore of Hamilton before passing to Dalhoff and King Aviation. In April of 1980 it was listed to T F and R M Corbett of Mayfield. It was damaged in the Waihopai Valley in February 1989 and was then cancelled and stored until being revived on 28-02-1995 to Thomas Corbett. It was operated by Westair Flying Ltd from September 1995 until February of 1999 followed by a year with Glenorchy Air Services and Tourist Co Ltd from April of 99 until passing back to Thom Corbett in April 2000.

Round the World Airtourer ZK-CXU at MOTAT

2012-01-18T20:39:00.002+13:00

Newly restored round the world Airtourer ZK-CXU is displayed in the new display hall at MOTAT in its original colours. This is an important historical aircraft for New Zealand and it is great to see it displayed for posterity.

ZK-CXU (c/n 521) was purchased new from its manufacturer, Aero Engine Services Ltd, by Cliff Tait in late 1968. It was first registered on 6/9/68 and ownership transferred to Cliff Tait on 20/11/68, which was also the date of its first flight. He named the aircraft Miss Jacy using his wife's and his initials.

Cliff Tait set out on his round the world flight on 12/5/69. It was an epic flight of 40 legs over 79 days, with a total flying time of 284 hours. The total distance flown was 30,500 nautical miles. Actually Cliff did not fly completely around the world as he could not obtain permission to overfly Russian airspace in North-Western Russia so he had to dismantle the aircraft and ship it from Tokyo to Vancouver. He returned to New Zealand on 1/8/69. Cliff sold ZK-CXU to Eagle Aviation of Hamilton on 27/11/69, so he only owned the aircraft for just over one year.

ZK-CXU then had a series of owners, mainly in the Waikato area until being purchased by MOTAT on 3/11/06. It is still registered to MOTAT. It was restored by Cliff Tait for the opening of the new MOTAT display hall in late 2011, in exactly the same colours and logos that it wore for its round the world flight.

Topdressers at MOTAT

2012-01-17T19:51:00.002+13:00

Another group of aircraft on display at MOTAT were a selection of topdressing aircraft from the halcyon days of New Zealand aerial topdressing. These are all original aircraft as registered. In date order they were as follows:

Commonwealth CA 28 Ceres ZK-BPU was displayed in the colours of James Aviation which would be late on in its life. I remember this aircraft being operated by Aerial Farming (NZ) Ltd of Palmerston North, which was later taken over by James Aviation Ltd. The Ceres was developed by the Commonwealth Aircraft Company in Australia and was converted from the Wirraway trainer. ZK-BPU was ex VH-CED and was first registered in New Zealand in December 1959, and it was one of several Ceres aircraft to operate around the central North Island in the 1960's (another story...). It crashed in February 1970 and was cancelled 3 months later. The outer wings are in storage at MOTAT.

Cessna C 188 Agwagon ZK-COO was displayed in the colours of Phoenix Aviation of Gore. It was the second Agwagon to be registered in New Zealand, and was one of a large number of Agwagon's to be imported by Rural Aviation in 1966/67 (34 of them?), and they were nearly all painted in a similar colour scheme to the above but with red and black stripes. ZK-COO was first registered in February 1966 and was withdrawn from use at Ardmore in 1977 and was cancelled in July 1978.

Fletcher FU 24 1060 ZK-CTZ is a very significant aircraft for New Zealand as it was the first turbine Fletcher to be built. It was powered by a 500 HP Pratt and Whitney PT 6 turbine engine. (There was a rival turbine Fletcher developed by Robertson Air Services ZK-BHQ which was a Fletcher FU 24 1160 powered by a 530 HP Garrett TPE 331 turbine - but that is another story....) ZK-CTZ was first registered in July 1967 and was always operated by James Aviation I think. It was withdrawn from use at Hamilton in August 1979, and it was cancelled in January 1981. It spent some time as a gate guardian at Hamilton Airport before being rescued and was purchased by MOTAT in 2005.

And finally Transavia PL 12 Airtruk ZK-CVB was displayed in the colours of Barr Bro(ther)s Ltd. The PL 12 Airtruk was built by the Transavia Corporation in Australia, and was a development of the earlier Bennet PL 11 Airtruck of which 2 were built in New Zealand in the 1950's and 60's. Both were designed by Luigi Pellarini. Barr Bros were the agents for the Airtruk and they imported quite a few in the 1960's, 70's and 80's. ZK-CVB was first registered in New Zealand in August 1967 and after operating for Barr Bros for all of its life it was withdrawn from use at Ardmore in March 1982, and it was cancelled in January 1991.

Rangiora on Monday 16th

2012-01-17T17:45:00.001+13:00

Allan Bowman was on site at Rangiora on Monday the 16th and captured these four visitors.
Above is the West Melton based James Hodge Tecnam P96 Golf ZK-JGH (c/n 213).

At the tie down was the Vans RV7A ZK-REX5 (c/n 73120) of Rex and Ruth Newman of Omaka.
See :- http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/12/three-tinnies-from-omaka.html
for a previous blog on this one.

The Glassford Partnership's Tecnam P2004 Bravo ZK-DDL2 (c/n 051) trying to sneak away without being photographed. This got a mention previously on :-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2009/05/breaking-cabin-feaver-at-rangiora-today.html

Cessna 172RG Cutlass 11 ZK-EWB (c/n 172RG-0671) of Napier Computer Systems outside the Canterbury Aero Club hangar.

That Taieri Auster.

2012-01-17T06:33:00.000+13:00

Mit has asked about the Auster that was in the background to one of the photos in the Pulsar #2 blog below.Almost certainly Auster J-1 ZK-AUO (c/n 1955). This was built as G-AHAX and registered to Taylorcraft Aeroplanes - England Ltd on 02-04-1946 and had two private English owners before being imported into NZ to become ZK-AUO on 11-07-1950 with Mort Vanderpump of Napier City Air Services. After a period with the Napier Aero Club from June 1952, and a private owner at Raetihi from July 1954 it moved south to Southern Scenic Air Services Ltd at Queenstown from 30-07-1955. From 1957 onwards it has had a whole bunch of private owners.

The photo above was taken at Luggate on 27-12-1971 whilst in the ownership of A J L McDonald and Dudley Waters of Dunedin.

Above was at Queenstown on 13-04-1974

On 25-01-1981 it was at the Pudding Hill fly in - ownership being with Shields, Mason and Harris.

By 06-09-1984 it was listed with K J Mason and J C Sinclair. Pic above was shot at Taieri on 01-04-1985. It was cancelled from the register on 08-05-1991 as pending rebuild.
The Auster J-1 ZK-APO (c/n 2212) was also operating around the Queenstown, Taieri area over the same time period. also in a red and white scheme and they were easily mistaken for each other, until AUO adopted the yellow with thin brown trim scheme.

Pulsar Duo # 2

2012-01-16T08:44:00.000+13:00

As a follow on from the earlier "Pulsar Duo" blog and the question of the display of registration marks.
Another Pulsar from the same era as ZK-RUS was ZK-KEN (c/n 345) which was built by Ken Rogers of Christchurch and first registered on 04-08-1995. Below I offer three shots of it

These first two views show it at the Easter gathering at Waitahi on 14-04-2001 with just its full ZK-KEN underwing markings.

Below: From the other side as seen at Taieri on 13-12-2003.

Below are three views of ZK-RUS in its earlier scheme.

Two shots of it taken at Ashburton on 07-02-1999.

Below. As spied at Westport on 11-12-2005.

Obviously this representation (or lack of) of the registration letters was acceptable at these dates.

So have the rules changed since then ?

From memory the other Pulsars had side markings.

Ah: De Havilland at MOTAT

2012-01-15T19:40:00.002+13:00

With the Auckland weather situation as it is, when my 10 year old grandson visited from Wellington, a visit to the new hangar at MOTAT was in order. The newly expanded display area is much improved over the old display hall, and better for photography.

This post will concentrate on De Havilland aircraft on display.

DH 83 Fox Moth ZK-AEK is presented in the Air Travel NZ Ltd livery that it wore on the West Coast in the late 1930's. My understanding is that this is a Myles Robertson built fuselage, so technically it is a replica. We had just driven from North Shore Airfield where we saw Stan Smith's DH 83C Fox Moth, also stored with its wings folded.

DH-89B Dragon Rapide ZK-AHS is presented in NAC colours. It is the original airframe which was first registered as ZK-AGT in 11/38. It was impressed into the RNZAF during the war and re-registered as ZK-AHS in 12/44. It was withdrawn from use in 8/74 and presented to MOTAT.

DH 82A Tiger Moth ZK-ANN is presented as an Aircraft Services topdresser, complete with an early loading machine. This aircraft was built up from parts of ZK-AIN with some parts also from ZK-BJH.

To complete the De Havilland line-up were 2 military machines: DH 98 T43 Mosquito NZ2305 and DH 100 FB9 Vampire WB202. The Mosquito NZ2305 was built in Australia as an FB40 model but was converted to a T43 and served as A52-1053. It arrived in New Zealand in 1946 and was bought on charge in 12/46. It served with No 7 Squadron RNZAF until being disposed of in 1952. I took this photo from the upper viewing level of the new hangar - we are going to need a ladder to photograph the Avspecs Mosquito when it gets going!

And finally, in the foreground is the ex RAF DH 100 Vampire WB202. The New Zealand connection of this aircraft is that it was used by No 14 Squadron RNZAF in Singapore, and later it was brought to new Zealand as an instructional airframe INST171.

Three from North Shore.

2012-01-14T21:08:00.000+13:00

Sir Minty visited North Shore today and sent in these three photographs
Above is the local Cessna 150H ZK-CXK (c/n 150H-68247) of the Avion Syndicate.

A visitor up from Paraparaumu is the Cessna A152 Aerobat ZK-JEN (c/n A152-0868). Dalhoff and King imported this aircraft with the intention of registering it as ZK-EOT. In the event it was sold to the New Plymouth Aero Club and became ZK-NPB instead on 21-06-1979. It was sold to the Kapiti Districts Aero Club and re-registered as ZK-JEN on 21-12-1994.

Imported from the land of OZ in late 2004 and registered as ZK-SAL4, this Cessna 207 (c/n 20700171) was sold to MDR Aviation on 11-09-2009 and was re-registered by them as ZK-MDZ on 28-10-2009. It is operated by Flight Hauraki and is seen here at full noise.

All three shots taken today by Sir Minty.

Pulsar Duo

2012-01-13T19:11:00.004+13:00

Currently there are two Aero Design Pulsars at Woodley Aircraft Services at Rangiora.

ZK-RUS (c/n 325/MAANZ/510) was built by, and registered by Les Rushton of Christchurch on 21-06-1994. It was re-designated as a Aero Design/Skystar Pulsar U/L on 30-01-2001. Les sold it to Nigel Cleine of Westport on 07-03-2005. It went off the side of the La Fontaine strip near Hari Hari on 06-01-2006 and was somewhat damaged. It was then sold to Troy Sutherland on 20-04-2008 and it has been rebuilt and refurbished by Paul Woodley at Rangiora and is now some seven hours into its test schedule. Its colour trim was added today and both Pulsars were wheeled out for a photo shoot. The only external clue to its identity (apart from its new scheme) is its "RUS" marks below the left wing.

Also worked on in Woodley Aircraft Services hangar for some time before moving to its owners hangar was the Pulsar XP ZK-MIV (c/n (294). This well advanced project had been imported from Durban, South Africa and was registered here on 13-01-2011 to Savco Ltd of Rangiora. It is also part way through its test program and was in for some canopy adjustments.

ZK-RUS is Rotax 582 powered, whilst ZK-MIV has a Rotax 912.
ZK-MIV has featured before on this blog.
See :-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/04/aero-designs-inc-pulsar-xp-zk-miv.html

and

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/10/first-flight-today-zk-miv.html

*****************************************************************

In answer to the HAWKSEYE comment below :-

Rules CAA Part 47
Subpart C - Aircraft Marking (page 15 onward - seem to give the answer).

Check out :-

http://www.caa.govt.nz/rules/Rule_Consolidations/Part_047_Consolidation.pdf

47.102 covers Police Markings.

47.104 for Identifiable Paint Schemes.

47.109 Display of Marks.

47.113 Location of Marks

A couple of strays. 13-01-2012

2012-01-13T17:10:00.000+13:00

Above. On the tie down wire at Christchurch International was the Cessna A185F Skywagon ZK-CES2 (c/n A185F-03273). Imported into NZ in 05-04-1995 it was initially registered as ZK-JPM with Jane and Paul MacDonald of Canterbury Aviation and normally parked about where this photograph was taken from today. It was sold to Nigel Griffith of Darlington Drilling and Piling Co in February of 2009 and was re-registered as ZK-CES2 on 03-03-2009.

It has featured on this blog several times before:- see

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2009/04/one-same.html

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/01/and-still-they-come-masterton-january.html

On its pickets at Rangiora today was this Tecnam P2002 Sierra ZK-KFA (c/n 046) of B D and J L Mackie of Napier.

Vans RV7A ZK-ORV and Vans RV12 ZK-YRV

2012-01-12T23:36:00.000+13:00

Making a brief visit to Pauanui 12 January where these two beauties, RV7A ZK-ORV followed by RV12 ZK-YRV.

More on ZK-ORV here:
http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/02/latest-members-of-vans-air-force-at.html

Silver Ferns

2012-01-12T23:30:00.000+13:00

There seems to be an increase in the use of the Silver Fern or a fern motif on NZ aircraft, a nice thing to see in my opinion and of course well presented on the Air New Zealand "All Black" aircraft which had its largest version touch down at Auckland on the morning of 12 January in the shape of Boeing 777-300 ZK-OKQ.

Colin Hunter photo

Photo supplied

Cessna 150G ZK-CSW at Thames 11 January, MRC photo

Dyn Aero MCR4 ZK-PSA at Pauanui 12 January, MRC photo

Piper PA38 ZK-WRB at Thames 09 January, MRC photo

More from Rangitata Island

2012-01-12T06:33:00.001+13:00

Two more pics from Allan Bowman taken at Rangitata Island yesterday (11-01-2012).
The Australian Aviation Works Karatoo J6C ZK-KTO (c/n J6 673P) is the trusty stead of Mike Small.
Originally Subaru powered it was converted to a Rotax 912 in about October 2007.
See earlier blog at

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/03/karatoo.html Airframe number four has not been completed & is for sale if you want a project.

Allan Barr was up from Timaru in his Cessna 172M ZK-DRN (c/n 172M 63491). Originally an import for the Rotorua Aero Club in early 1975, it went to private ownership in late 1988 and moved down to Timaru in February of 1996

ZK-DJE & Gopro

2012-01-12T06:08:00.001+13:00

Vince G of Fox Glacier has sent in this rather different view of the Walter powered Fu24 ZK-DJE climbing up the Fox Glacier recently. It was taken with a Gopro tail cam.

Some recent shots.

2012-01-11T06:48:00.000+13:00

Above we have two more shots from Allan Bowman taken at Rangitata Island. They are the Gardan GY20 Minicab ZK-DMM (c/n AACA/180/1) from the Lillybank Syndicate, with the CFM Shadow C-D ZK-FMY (c/n K019/MAANZ/366) of Ron Bannister. Then the very much re-worked Jurca MJ-5 Sirocco ZK-FNQ (c/n AACA/601) of Phil Meredith. All three down from Rangiora on 06-01-2-12.

On Monday the 9th the Cheviot Ag-Air Fletcher Fu24-950 ZK-EMY (c/n 279) was seen at AVTEK Timaru.

Parked up at Oamaru on the 7th was the PAC 08-600 Cresco ZK-LTS (c/n 005) of Wanganui Aero Work (2004) Ltd.

Spotted at NZCH 10-01-2012

2012-01-10T22:31:00.000+13:00

At the tie downs near the Canterbury Aero Club today was this Cessna 172R ZK-NAA4 (c/n 172 80904) from the Nelson Aviation College of Motueka. It was registered to then on 13-05-2011.

Below is what was mentioned in the NZ Aviation News Magazine at the time.
"This is a year 2000 model, initially registered on 27-06-2000 and flying from Wichita as N2106T for delivery to 2106T Inc at Watkins, Colorado early that August. It shifted to Deming, New Mexico for Lary Wagner from 17-07-2003 until cancelled on 12-03-2010 on export to NZ for assembly at Nelson.
Earlier allocations of these NAA letters went to a NZNAC/ANZ Fokker Friendship (1966-1983), a Boeing 737 for ANZ (1993-2001) and a Piper PA30 Twin Comanche (2006-2009). "

Pauanui Ponderings

2012-01-10T19:30:00.000+13:00

The inclement weather this summer across the North Island has been dappled with the odd fine day but far from ideal for a beach holiday, however like many Kiwi's you have to make the most of the time available. The last few days for the author have been spent on the Coromandel and the proximity to Pauanui Beach Airport to our accommodation made for numerous, quick visits and the following are those snapped, mostly on the nicest day weatherwise, Friday 06 January.

Europa ZK-CHV made a very brief visit.

Pioneer 300 ZK-CJO is a local Pauanui resident.

Cessna 172N ZK-DEX is registered to a Bay of Plenty owner and made a brief visit on Friday (ex ZK-ELG).

Beech A36 ZK-DPT also from the Bay area.

Wearing a new scheme since I last saw it, Cessna 172M ZK-DRT spent a few days at Pauanui under cover so it was great to get it on the move.

Palmerston North based Beech F33A ZK-EDS arrived and replaced the owners other aircraft that was on location earlier in the week, Yak 52TW ZK-YTW.

Ardmore Flying School's Cessna 172N ZK-EOX made several visits from its temporary base, Slipper Island.

Grumman AA5A ZK-ERJ departed 03 January.

Nanchang ZK-FRU was a frequent sight with it spending lots of time in the air.

Tecnam 2002 Sierra ZK-JNG spent a couple of days at Pauanui, registered to the Hauraki Aero Club, Thames.

Tecnam P96 ZK-KER was also a frequent sight at Pauanui.

Pioneer 200 ZK-MSG was present for a couple of hours 06 January and recently underwent an identity change from ZK-DJC.

Mooney M20C ZK-MWP spent a few days parked at the western end of the field.

A visitor from Matamata, Tecnam P92 Super Echo ZK-PFL.

B&F Technic Polaris ZK-RFD made a brief visit 06 January.

Tecnam P92 Super Echo ZK-RWD also paid a brief visit 06 January, ex ZK-KMA.

TL-3000 Sirius ZK-SPR spent a couple of days in the region, visiting from North Shore.

Above and below, Yak 52 ZK-YKA was busy with commercial operations from Pauanui with

http://www.xxflight.com/

Pacific Aerospace 750XL Movements

2012-01-10T08:10:00.002+13:00

Photographed outside the Hamilton factory this week, P2-OMA appears ready for its journey to PNG. Can anyone confirm its previous ID? Also noted on the same day was another PNG bound 750, P2-SDC.
Thanks to Sean for this photo.

And arriving at Hamilton for maintenance attention on 08 January was P2-BWC. This airframe was delivered to PNG during January 2008 (http://mrcaviation.blogspot.com/2008/01/saturday-12-january-2008.html)reaching Port Moresby on the 15th. It appears it returned to Cairns on back on 08 October 2011 and has been there ever since.
Thanks to Terry M from Coolangatta for this shot of P2-BWC during its journey from Cairns to Hamilton via Rockhampton, Coolangatta, Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island and Kerikeri.

Another 750XL delivered to PNG in 2008 was P2-TNT. It flew from Kerikeri to Norfolk Island on 16 July 2008 and continued via Lord Howe Island, Archerfield, Mackay, Cairns and Horn Island eventually arriving at Mount Hagen on the 31st. On 09 January 2012 the 750XL arrived at Cairns from Daru and Horn Island.

Black Beech at an airport near you from 10 January!

2012-01-09T17:42:00.000+13:00

Air NZ's "All Black" scheme applied to two domestic only Airbus A320's (ZK-OAB and ZK-OJR) and yet to be delivered Boeiing 777-300 ZK-OKQ (due to arrive Auckland 12 January) has now been added to Eagle Air's Beech 1900D ZK-EAG with the aircraft photographed today at Hamilton undergoing engine runs and a subsequent test flight.

ZK-EAG enters service 10 January and will be joined by ZK-EAK later in the month.

Thanks to Sean W for these great shots, she looks great in this livery!

Mix of 3.

2012-01-05T23:09:00.001+13:00

These three photographs sent in by Matt Hayes were taken over the last few days.
Below is the Walter powered Fletcher Fu24-950 ZK-DJE (c/n 176) taken at Fox Glacier on 30-12-2011 in its Skydive Fox Glacier scheme.

ZK-DJE previously operated out of Motueka under the Skydive Abel Tasman banner. Its place there has been taken by the Pilatus PC-6/B2-H4 ZK-XIT (c/n 653) as seen below outside its hangar at Motueka on 03-01-2012.

Captured at Nelson on 04-01-2012 was this Cessna 441 Conquest 11 VH-LEM (c/n 441-0081) of Fugro Spatial Solutions Pty Ltd. It arrived at Wellington on 10-12-2011 from Goulborn and Canberra and later departed for Nelson where it will be based while working in the Cook Strait area. It departed Nelson for Auckland and Lord Howe Island today (05-01-2012).

Chloe Milne

2012-01-05T23:07:00.000+13:00

Chloe Milne is in the left hand seat of the Waikato Aero Club Cessna 172R ZK-WAM2 (c/n 80275 & ex ZK-CGD2) as photographed at Dargaville today by Jean210.
Check out Chloe's story here :-
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/6213534/Flight-a-rite-of-passage-for-new-pilot
They were en route to Cape Reinga followed by a landing at Kaitaia and an overnight stop at Whangarei.
Below is the Aerospool Dynamic WT9 ZK-DYN3, on loan from Drake Aviation whilst the family WT( ZK-MLC) is at Drake's for maintenance.

Thanks to Jean210 for the photos and Press link.

Fairchild, Swearingen Metroliner and a Raven 11.

2012-01-05T22:21:00.000+13:00

During a bit of a wander around Christchurch International today (05-01-2012) I captured these three flying machine.
Above is the remains of the Fairchild F27 Friendship N385BA (c/n 24). If memory serves me right it had aspirations of joining our register as ZK-DQU but due to a dose of corrosion it was withdrawn before NZ certification and ended being used by the local crash fire team.

Above : Another Fairchild product is this Fairchild Swearingen SA227-AC Metro 111 ZK-NSS (c/n AC692) as operated by Airwork Flight Operations for Life Flight NZ. Built in 1987 it came to NZ for Air Nelson in August of 1990.

On the Heli Maintenance pad was this Robinson R44 Raven 11 ZK-IFD (c/n 10083). This came to NZ mid 2003 and was initially registered as ZK-HTZ2 on 24-06-2003. It went to Peter Morrison at Darfield Helicopters on 11-08-2009 and was re-registered to ZK-IFD on 17-02-2011 for onward sale to Andrew Fraser of Mt Cecil Trophy Deer Stud Ltd on 28-02-2011.

Rand KR 1(s) of New Zealand (Only One to Date)

2012-01-05T20:36:00.003+13:00

The Rand Robinson KR 1 was a very innovative homebuilt design as it was the first to use foam and fibreglass composite construction. It was designed by Ken Rand and first appeared at Oshkosh in 1972. The structure is basic wood and ply, but the surface contours are formed by polyurethane foam which is formed to the shapes required and then covered by Dynel fabric which is impregnated with resin. This allows compound curves to be easily formed, and after sanding a smooth surface results. The wings have 2 wooden spars with polyurethane ribs which are again covered with resin impregnated Dynel fabric. The flying surfaces are simply cut out and reattached with hinges. The original models featured a manually retractable undercarriage but it can also be built with fixed gear.

The KR 1 is a really small aircraft. Its length is 12 feet 9 inches (3.89 metres) and its wingspan is 17 feet (5.17 metres), and its wing area is 62 square feet (5.74 square metres). Its empty weight is 375 pounds (170 Kg) and its MAUW is 750 pounds (340 Kg). Maximum speed is 200 MPH (320 Km/hr).

The photos are from the Keith Morris collection.

ZK-EKT (c/n AACA/451) was built by Bob Maisey of Taupo, and was first registered on 18/9/78. It had very smooth lines with its in-line Walter Mikron engine which was out of Tipsy Belfair ZK-BGZ (another interesting aircraft to blog - it was written off after a crash at Rotorua in December 1956). It was named Miss Taupo and it is photo'd here at the 1982 AACA flyin at Taupo. Bob Maisey flew a lot of hours in ZK-EKT and then sold it to his sons R R and G B Maisey, also of Taupo, on 18/9/96.

It is photo'd here at Taupo after refurbishment and repainting, in 1997. It is still current but I haven't seen it for a long time.

Cassutt Racer(s) of New Zealand (Only One to Date)

2012-01-05T19:58:00.003+13:00

The Cassutt Racer was designed by TWA pilot Tom Cassutt in 1951 as a Midget Air Racer, and appeared in its first air race at Dansville, New York in 1954. Over the years it has been developed into the Cassutt 111M Sport Racer which currently races at Reno and other air races in the US. Plans are still available but we have had only one Cassutt Racer in New Zealand, and I am unaware of any more that are being built.

The Cassutt has a length of 16 feet (4.88 metres)and a wingspan of 15 feet (4.57 metres), and its wing area is 68 square feet (6.3 square metres). It weighs 500 pounds (227 Kg) empty and its MAUW is 850 pounds (386 Kg). On an 0-200 motor its max speed is 248 mph (400 km/hr). However some US air racing models have performance in excess of this.

The photos are from the Keith Morris collection

ZK-DHJ (c/n AACA 116/1) was built by Rex Handley of Blenhiem , and was first registered on 8/2/78. It was named "Free Roamer" and it first flew on 18/2/78. It is photod here at the 1979 AACA flyin at Gore, but I do not have a record of who took the photo. It was sold to T J Smith of Blenhiem on 12/1/84, and then to M M Smith of Dunedin (?) on 17/6/87.

Finally it was sold to Brett Emeny of Inglewood on 21/8/89. It is photod here in a hangar at the Norfolk Road airstrip at Inglewood in 1987. It was withdrawn and cancelled on 10/7/02, and its motor was used in Andrews A1 ZK-BLU.

Piper J-3C Cub ZK-AHC.

2012-01-04T20:25:00.000+13:00

Piper J-3C Cub ZK-AHC (c/n 2709) first flew in the USA on 11-02-1939. It arrived in NZ in May of 39 and went to the Nelson Aero Club with whom it carried the name "Brig Arrow". It was stored during World War Two and then went to Waikato Aviation Ltd followed by numerous private owners. One of these was W J Funnell of Pahiatua (about March 1970 I think). In more recent time it has been listed with J L Peace of Manakau City from 13-05-1985; to D T Paquette on Waiheke Island from 21-12-1994 and then to Venture Aviation (John Funnell) of Taupo since 13-09-2004. I have heard that it has not flown for some time due to engine problems !
Top photo was taken at Dannevirke on 02-03-1969 and the lower pic was shot at Taupo just prior to Christmas by Henry M.

ZK-HAB

2012-01-04T17:49:00.000+13:00

Sighted by me for the first time out in the sunshine today (04-02-2012) at Heli Maintenance at Christchurch was the Hiller UH-12B ZK-HAB3 (c/n 737). This is still awaiting the cancellation of its US N1048N registration before it can be officially listed here in NZ.
This is a genuine Hiller OH-23B Raven built for the US military with the serial 54-2943, and with a date of manufacture of 09-04-1958. It served its early millitary career with the Royal Netherlands Air Force under the MDAP scheme (Mutual Defence Assisytance Program).

A new B3 and Hotel Cube.

2012-01-04T17:34:00.001+13:00

The new Eurocopter AS 350 B3 Ecureuil ZK-IHL (c/n according to the CAA list is 7219 : but marked as 8127 on the tail ?). First registered on 31-10-2011 and as seen at the Garden City Helicopter base in Christchurch today (04-02-2012)

The Robinson R22 ZK-HHH2 [Hotel x3 = Hotel Cube] (c/n 1779) arriving back after another sortie. It has been with Garden City Helicopters since late 1997.

Sited today 03-01-2012

2012-01-03T22:54:00.000+13:00

Noted parked on the western grass at Christchurch today was this Cessna R182 Skylane RG11 ZK-EKL (c/n R182 00054). Constructed in late 1977 it came to NZ via Dalhoff & King Aviation Ltd of Ardmore for delivery to Alpine Helicopters of Queenstown from 09-06-1978. It has had a swag of owners since, until joining the Kapiti Districts Aero Club at Paraparaumu on 10-12-2004.

Cessna 206 Floatplane ZK-PCS Making a Living

2012-01-01T08:43:00.005+13:00

Happy New Year to all readers of the NZ Civair blog!

My daughter sent me this photo of the Cessna U206F floatplane ZK-PCS taken just after it had dropped her off at Crail Bay in the Marlborough Sounds on 29 December, after a flight from Picton, and I thought it had a nice holiday feel to it.

ZK-PCS is operated by Westland Air Charter of Picton and has been on the New Zealand register since 20/5/97. Previously it was C-GBCS.

A final circuit of NZRT for the year.

2011-12-31T19:52:00.000+13:00

The Jabiru J200 ZK-CHW3 (c/n 009) from the Watkins Family Trust of Auckland was seeking shelter from the inclement meteorological condition by over nighting in the Pat Scotter hangar.

Above : strongly rumoured to have been sold to new owners at Tauranga: is the North American NA78 Harvard 3* ZK-XSA (c/n 78-6647). It was out and about today (31-12-2011).

Tucked away was the Jabiru J120-C UL ZK-EFG3 (c/n 001) of Hamilton Computer Services of Christchurch. This little aircraft flew across the Tasman Sea from Lismore to Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands and into Kerikeri on 13-11-2009.

And something different -:- Taking of from Rangiora today.

Stuart Tantrum 20/5/48 - 26/11/11

2011-12-31T13:59:00.003+13:00

I was sad to hear of the recent death of Stuart Tantrum at Blenhiem. Stuart was a can-do homebuilder who built some really interesting sport and antique aeroplanes. I first knew Stuart in Levin when he was my stage inspector for my Jodel D9 project, and later he successfully test flew the completed aircraft at Foxpine. He was a great help to me and very generous. I remember him giving many children joyrides from Foxpine in his Tiger Moth ZK-ALX.

Stuart was AACA member number 266 and he built aircraft quickly. His SE 5A Replica ZK-SET was completed in 1978 (whereas my Jodel which must have been started around the same time, was not completed until 1984). ZK-SET is photo'd here at Foxpine in the 1990's, piloted by Stuart after being rebuilt by him following its accident at the 1992 Auckland air Expo.

But Stuart really pushed the envelope with his second aircraft, the Fokker Dr1 Triplane Replica ZK-FOK. I was always impressed by Stuart's workmanship as I saw this aircraft coming together in his garage in Levin - so many parts in those 6 wings! ZK-FOK is photo'd here at the 1986 Manawatu Chapter AACA flyin at Feilding in December 1986, in its original lozenge colour scheme. This aircraft can be considered to be the grand-daddy of all the amazing WW 1 aircraft that we now have in New Zealand, including 6 other imported Fokker Triplanes.

Stuart was badly injured in the crash of his Tiger Moth ZK-ALX at Foxpine in January 1986. However he continued with his love of aviation to be back flying again later that year

Stuart then shifted to Blenhiem where he formed Antique Aero Engineering Ltd, and he worked there with his son Wayne. Antique Aero Engineering restored several excellent examples of antique aircraft including Rob Mackley's Stearman ZK-BWR and Tiger Moth ZK-BMY.

However, Stuart's foremost legacy to the history of aircraft in New Zealand is the wonderful complete and authentic restoration of Avro 504K ZK-ACU, including an original rotary engine used by the aircraft in the 1930's. This is New Zealand's oldest existing aircraft having been first registered in 1931 and operated by the New Zealand Permanent Air Force. It crashed at new Plymouth in November 1935 and the remains ended up in the Taranaki Museum. The remains were eventually obtained by Stuart and he began restoration in Levin, later shifting the project to Blenhiem. ZK-ACU was restored to the civil aircraft register in October 2008 for The Vintage Aviator, and Stuart carried out the test flying schedule. ZK-ACU is photo'd above in The Vintage Aviator's hangar at Masterton in March 2010. If you look closely you can get an idea of the amazing job that Stuart made of the restoration.

As I said in my introduction, Stuart was a can-do type of guy, and he was a very clever man.

In the bottom of the shoe box

2011-12-30T17:23:00.001+13:00

After a bit of a rummage around I dug up these photographs from the bowels of the old shoe box.
In my misspent youth I spent a lot of time hanging around at the Wellington Aero Club and assisting Ivan East in the hangar when an extra pair of hands were needed.
On 01-02-1964 I was on hand to capture the Avro 694 Sport Avian MkIVM ZK-ACM (c/n 499) being manoeuvred into the Club hangar.

Above: With its prancing horse and Checkered tail it rests alongside the Cub ZK-BTV. In the background is the newish Woolworths.

Above: Proud owner Keith Trillo watches as Barry McAlly and Frank Johnstone (unsure of the spelling of both these gents names) prepare to place it in the hangar.

In the hangar with Cub ZK-BQN on the left and the Cessna 310G ZK-CFG in the back corner.

It underwent an extensive rebuild and flew again on 30-11-1967.

Above is a photo from Peter Ingram showing it post restoration with wings folded.

As seen on 18-11-1967. In 1970 it was stored in a barn near Wanganui; unfortunately to be destroyed by fire in February of 1974.

Piper Meridian ZK-OLY

2011-12-29T05:21:00.000+13:00

A pleasant surprise at Taupo 28 December was the visit of New Zealand's one and only Piper PA46 Meridian ZK-OLY. This slick machine arrived from its Fielding base via Gisborne and after a refuel continued home to Fielding.

More on ZK-OLY here: http://galonghaulnews.blogspot.com/2011/06/piper-meridian-n598c-zk-oly-long-haul.html
And a nice Youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HKjTQ83tZI

Thanks to Henry M for these great shots taken at Taupo:

Today at Rangi - ora and - tata Island

2011-12-28T21:33:00.000+13:00

These first two shots show the Rockwell 114 ZK-ELL3 (c/n 14229). Above at the fuel pump at Rangiora; and below is a close up view of the logo on the fuselage side. This arrived via container at Hastings in September 2010 for Gwailo Investments Ltd and is now on the line with Air Hawkes Bay Ltd.

ZK-ELL has featured before in these pages at

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/10/rockwell-114-zk-ell.html

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/11/rockwell-114-zk-ell-first-flight.html

Below we have the Wairakei Holdings Eurocopter EC 120 B Colibri ZK-IFR2 (c/n 1312) which did a series of circuits at NZRT.

Below we see Grant Porter feeling for the ground at Rangiora in his Avid MkIV ZK-JHW (c/n 1434D). This has also been on this blog previously at

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2007/12/more-wigram-sightings.html

At Rangitata Island today Alan Bowman spied this Timaru based Beech V35 Bonanza ZK-DDG (c/n D8220) of Russell Rarity. This moved to Timaru in about February this year after some 35 years at Gisborne.

From the cockpit 27-12-2011

2011-12-28T08:03:00.001+13:00

Yesterday (27-12-2011) I was fortunate to get a back seat ride in the Piper PA-28-181 Archer 111 ZK-LJC over Christchurch City, Lyttelton and the Harbour entrance. The dead grassed areas have been sprayed and are to be re-planted with the new grass that birds dislike.

Above is the view on final approach to Rnwy 02 at Quake City (NZCH).

Above is the view that Andy Heap had yesterday from the Grob G102Club 111b Astir ZK-GNH. He is sneaking along the Robert Ridge, with Lake Rotoiti out and down to the left of picture. A tad more right rudder please Andy.

Three new sightings at Lake Station.

2011-12-27T22:06:00.000+13:00

The latest addition to the gliders operating out of Lake Station is this Rolladen-Schneider LS4 ZK-GVL (c/n 4085) of David Van Der Linden of Richmond. First registered in NZ on 21-09-2011, it is yet to be certified.

A couple of strays from the North Island.
Cessna A152 ZK-ETS (c/n A1520886) is a very recent addition (15-11-2011) to the Wellington Aero Clubs fleet.

Cessna 152 ZK-JIA (c/n 152 80726) is a member of the Kapiti Districts Aero Club

All three pics from Andy Heap.

Four from Rangiora 26-12-2011

2011-12-27T21:41:00.000+13:00

ZK-SKS (c/n 815) is the Mike Kindon built Aeros Ukraine Skyranger Swift as seen at Rangiora yesterday (26-12-2011). It was recently re-engined with a Rotax 582: replacing the earlier Simonini.

Piper PA28-151/180 Cherokee Warrior (Bold Warrior mods) ZK-TGF (c/n 28-7715223) from TGF Aviation of Parakai was parked over at Rangiora.

The Vans RV6A ZK-VIA (c/n 23401) of Derek and Christine Edwards of Levin dropping in for fuel before heading further north.

Already at the pumps was the Cessna U206F Stationair 11 ZK-DKB (c/n U206F 02170) up from Clyde and heading for Paraparaumu and further afield.

Down South with Henry M. #4

2011-12-27T21:17:00.000+13:00

Cessna U206G Stationair 6 ZK-ETN (c/n U206 05866) was listed to Invercargill Holdings Ltd on 15-09-2011. It i seen here at Queenstown carrying Alpine Air titles on the rear door and "Operated by Southern Lakes Aviation Queenstown on the forward fuselage.

ZK-FIG2 is a Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP (c/n 172S-9619) (NZ) Ltd was first registered to Glenorchy Air Services and Tourist Co Ltd on 03-05-2004. In July of 2007 it moved up to CTC Aviation Training at Hamilton; returning to Glenorchy Air Services and Tourist Co on 29-10-2007. It moved over to the Wakatipu Aero Club on 01-07-2010 and carries their Air Wakatipu markings.

The Cessna 208 Caravan ZK-SKB (c/n 20800244) [the Hank Sproull Kero Burner] fired up and ready to move out at Queenstown.

Another Wakatipu Aero Club / Air Wakatipu aircraft is this Cessna 172P ZK-ETT (c/n 172 74937) which has been with the Club since 06-01-1998. (That will be the nose of the Gulfstream G-V N780W on the right of the pic)

Down South with Henry M. #3

2011-12-27T17:20:00.000+13:00

Above is the Cessna 172N ZK-MDR (c/n 172N 68885) which was first registered in NZ on 12-01-2007 to MDR Aviation Ltd of Auckland. It has had several leases since. It carries the "Air Planes" script on the forward fuselage and "Operated by Glenorchy Air" on the door; having been listed to them on 24-11-2010.

Below we have the Air New Zealand Airbus A320-232 ZK-OAB (c/n 4553) arriving at Queenstown. It has been in service since 07-02-2011.

Another Airbus A320-232 is ZK-OJI (c/n 2297) as seen below on climb out from Queenstown.

A very recent re-registration below is the NZ Aerospace FU24-950 [Walter powered] ZK-PDZ3 (c/n 157) of Skydive Glenorchy. It had been registered as ZK-NZS2 after its return from Australia in 2003 and listed to Skydive Tandem Ltd. An ownership change to Skydive Glenorchy took place on 15-09-2011 and the change of marks took place from 02-12-2011. It carries "Skydive Paradise" on the fuselage side.

Down South with Henry M. # 2

2011-12-26T22:33:00.001+13:00

A long lens view of three Squirrels, AS350 BA ZK-HGO2 (c/n 2182), AS350 BA ZK-HJP3 (c/n 2322) and AS350 B2 ZK-HYS3 (c/n 2447) of Heli-Works Queenstown Helicopters Ltd.

Across the other side of the old grass vector were the Twin Squirrel AS355F1 ZK-IAV (c/n 5041), The AS350 BA ZK-HKR (c/n 1234) and the AS355 F1 ZK-HMB2 (c/n 5016) of The Helicopter Line.
Below is a better shot of ZK-HMB2.

Below is the Aerospatiale AS 350 B2 ZK-HQN2 (c/n 1807) of Heli Tours Ltd.

All four shots taken at Queenstown on 22 and 23-12-2011.

Down South with Henry M. #1

2011-12-26T21:33:00.000+13:00

Three Cessna 207's were captured by Henry McIntyre whilst recently down South.
Above is ZK-DEW3 (c/n 207-00161) of Milford Sounds Flight Ltd as seen at Milford Sound on 22-12-2011.

Above is ZK-DRY (c/n 207-00196) of Wanaka Flightseeing (2006) Ltd parked at Queenstown on 23-12-2011.

Above is Cessna 207 ZK-FQY (c/n 207-00293) of Southern Alps Air Ltd of Wanaka. As captured at Milford Sound on the 22nd.

Christchurch 24-12-2011. Two visitors

2011-12-25T22:16:00.001+13:00

Tony McFarlin captured these two visitors to Christchurch on 24-12-2011.
Above is the Beech G58 Baron N254F
It has featured on this blog previously at :

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/03/not-zk-yet-but.html
and
http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/04/foreigners-at-ardmore.html

And below the Cessna 402B ZK-PVC. Presumably in town for post Fridays earthquake work.
This aircraft has also featured before.

See

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/03/more-pics-from-no-fly-zone.html

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/06/another-spy-in-sky.html

Question time # 144

2011-12-25T06:50:00.007+13:00

GAME OVER
ALL PICTURES HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED.

Some pictures for you to ponder over !

Tell us what aircraft types they all belong to and you can go to the top of the class.

**************************************************

No 1

RESOLVED : DH Heron Aileron at Tauranga : ZK-CKE2 & Planecrazy

**************************************************

No 2

No 2
RESOLVED : PULSAR ZK-RUS : Sir Minty

**************************************************

No 3

RESOLVED: DH DEVON ZK-UCO (ex NZ1812) : ZK-CKE2 and Planecrazy.4

*************************************************

No 4

RESLOVED: Cessna 525B CJ3 ZK-TBM3 : Planecrazy4

**************************************************

No 5

RESOLVED : PERCIVAL PROCTOR ZK-AQK at Rangitata Island : ZK-CKE2.

**************************************************

No 6

RESOLVED : R/H ENGINE MOUNT FOR HILLER UH-12B ZK-HAB : Anonymous.

**************************************************

No 7

RESOLVED : DH82A TIGER MOTH ZK-BFS : Planecrazy4.

**************************************************

No 8

RESOLVED : RANS S-17 STINGER ZK-EEE : bobgod.

************************************************

No 9

RESOLVED : KAWASAKI BK117 ZK-HJK: Planecrazy4.

************************************************

No 10

RESOLVED : AEROPRAKT A-22 ZK-MYD : QW

**************************************************

No 11

RESOLVED : GAF NOMAD ZK-NMD at Tekapo : ZK-CKE2 and bobgod confirmed

**************************************************

No 12

RESOLVED : FLETCHER FU24 WALTER ZK-NZS : Alias.

**************************************************

No 13

RESOLVED : CESSNA 404 TITAN ZK-NDY : cessna185.

##########

And a merry Christmas to you all.

Thanks to all for your support over the year

More from North Shore today

2011-12-24T19:58:00.000+13:00

Sir Minty has offered these three pics from his visit to North Shore today (24-12-2011).

Above is the Piper PA28-140 Cherokee Cruiser ZK-DOQ (c/n 28-7425002). This is the second production airframe from the 1974 Piper fiscal year which became N55174 and ferried into Auckland on 29-05-1974. It spent its first seven years with the Middle Districts Aero Club before going into private ownership. It has been listed to the North Shore Aero Club (Inc) since 10-08-2007.

ZK-LRD (c/n 150M-76001) is a product of 1975. It came onto the NZ register on 16-07-1986 as ZK-JMP1 which came from the initials of its new owner J M Pedersen of Auckland. It was sold to J L & R M Dredge of Glen Eden on 05-02-1991 and the registration was changed to ZK-LRD on thew 18th.

A very recent addition to our register is the Cessna 182T Skylane ZK-PJC (c/n 182-81476). Certified in the US on 19-11-2004 it served with Bellio Aviation LLC at Denver, Colorado until sold to NZ.
It was registered here on 20-09-2011 to Pacific Cruises 2009 Ltd in Auckland. "PJC" being the initials of the owners.

Three Tinnies at Omaka

2011-12-24T17:50:00.001+13:00

Three more photographs from Omaka on Friday 23rd from Andy Heap.
Above is the Cessna A185F ZK-CES2 (c/n A185F-03272). This was originally registered in NZ on arrival in 1995 as ZK-JPW. It was purchased by the Darlington Drilling & Piling Ltd as of 04-02-2009 and was re-registered as ZK-CES2 on 03-03-2009. Here it stops over briefly for fuel.

The Airthere.com (2008) Ltd Piper PA34-220T Seneca ZK-WIW (c/n 34-48017).

Rex and Ruth Newman of Blenheim built their first RV7A as ZK-REX4 (c/n 71200) and registered it on 15-07-2004 and then carried on and built ZK-MIS (c/n 72461) which hit the register on 19-10-2007. This was sold to The COD Impact trust of Auckland on 09-01-2008. They then began on their third RV7A which ultimately became ZK-REX5 (c/n 73120) on 14-07-2009. Prior to this ZK-REX4 was re-registered to ZK-RFX on 26-05-2009.

Above we have ZK-REX5 as seen on Friday.

Christmas Eve 2011 at North Shore

2011-12-24T15:29:00.002+13:00

North Shore Airfield was quiet this afternoon, but you can always find something interesting there.

Jersey Seipel unwrapped his Wild Thing ZK-DTT from its hangar and flew off to Matamata.

A real oldie picketed outside Stan Smith's hangar was Moraine Saulnier 880B Rallye ZK-CKK. This was first registered in February 1965 and was cancelled in August 2000. It was restored and re-registered on 1/2/07 and is now owned by R J Burr and M R Jeffrey of North Shore.

And looking sparkling with uplighting from the white concrete was Cessna A152 Aerobat taildragger ZK-MDO. It is owned by MDR Aviation of North Shore.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all readers of the blog a blessed Christmas and a wonderful plane spotting New Year.

Some more fabric and tube at Omaka

2011-12-24T08:50:00.000+13:00

Two more fabric and tube aeronautical devices seen by Andy Heap at Omaka yesterday (23-12-2011)
ZK-BSH started as a Piper PA22-150 Caribbean in 1960. It is currently registered to the Pie Chaser Syndicate. It now has a 180hp engine, vortex generators along the upper wing leading edges and those 31 inch Tundra tires.
It has featured before see :-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2009/06/small-medium-and-large-wheels-zk-bsh.html

You might also want to cast your optics over :- http://avskills.com/

**************************************************

Below is the Champion 7ECA Citabria ZK-CMP of the C.M.P Syndicate

It also has been on blog before see :-

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2010/03/champion-7eca-citabria-zk-cmp.html

The Westland Bush Plane.

2011-12-24T07:53:00.000+13:00

Christmas has come early for me.
Andy Heap has captured the elusive Westland Bush Plane ZK-WBP (c/n 0017251).
Built up by Russell G Cook of Kaihinu Aviation Ltd of Hokitika.

See a previous photo and blurb by GREYBEARD on this at

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2008/04/westland-bush-plane.html

Note the extra side door to the luggage area behind the rear seat.

It received some minor damage on 23-07-2011 whilst landing on a river bed.

This photo was taken at Omaka yesterday (23-12-2011).

Sea Rey ZK-REY

2011-12-24T02:28:00.000+13:00

Progressive Aerodyne Sea Rey ZK-REY was registered to Clevedon Aviation in February this year having spent much of its life at the now closed Pikes Point Airpark and more recently at Parakai.

It is one of three such amphibs on the NZ register.

At Ardmore 23 December

Cessna A185F ZK-CBF

2011-12-24T02:10:00.000+13:00

Registered to Gordon Needham of Tairua in May 2011 is this Cessna A185F ZK-CBF (185-03210) ex N93283. It was photographed (rather hastily as it appeared unexpectedly) at Ardmore 23 December.

ZK-TBM, N & O.

2011-12-22T18:53:00.001+13:00

Thanks to Pacific Aircraft Services I managed today to get a closer look at these three aircraft today (22-12-2011).
Above is the Cessna 525B CJ3 Citation ZK-TBM3 (c/n 525B-0027) as registered to Pacific Jets Ltd of Christchurch. This aircraft arrived in NZ on 04-07-2005 and replaced the previous Cessna 525 CJ1 Citation ZK-TBM2.

Residing in the same hangar is the CHL Investments Ltd's Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP ZK-TBN (c/n 172S9920). This Garmin G1000 equipped 172S arrived at Pacific Aircraft Services in November 2010. It was then spirited away into this hangar and I did not see it again until Tuesday (20-12-2011).
Below are two earlier shots of the same aircraft. As N447JK it served with Sun State Aviation -

- and then a view of it not long after delivery to the Pacific Aircraft Service hangar at Christchurch in November of 2010.

In the other corner of the hangar is the Walkington Family Trust Cessna T182T Skylane ZK-TBO (c/n T182-08069). This was first registered in country on 06-11-2001 and has alternated between the Walkington Family Trust; CHL Investments; Christchurch Helicopters Ltd and back to the Walkington Family Trust.

More from Motueka

2011-12-22T06:22:00.000+13:00

Four more great shots sent in by Andy Heap, taken at Motueka on 21-12-2011.

A thing of rare beauty ! Pilatus PC-6/B2-H4 Porter ZK-XIT2 (c/n 653) of Skydive Nelson (wearing Abel Tasman Skydive script), landing back after another parachute dropping mission. This was previously operated as ZK-JML.

The even more radiant Moyes Dragonfly ZK-DGF2 (c/n C85) of Blue Sky Microlight 2006 Ltd [Tasman Sky Adventures] about to do another tow.

Two more Cessna 152's from the Nelson Aviation College. Above is the A152 Aerobat ZK-EWG (c/n A152-0996) and below is the 152 ZK-EWI (c/n 152-85392). Will these soon be re-registered in the ZN-NA* series ?

Nelson Aviation College

2011-12-21T20:05:00.001+13:00

Three shots taken today (21-12-2011) by Andy Heap at Motueka showing three of the Nelson Aviation College flying machines. Above is the Hughes 369HS ZK-HER (c/n 81 0333S) which had an ownership change on 06-12-2011 to Helicopter Charter Nelson Ltd. It still carries the Cloudy Bay Helicopters script and also the NAC signage.

Above is the Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP ZK-NAB3 (172S8220) which was registered to NAC on 27-06-2011.

Above is the recently re-registered Cessna 152 ZK-NAL3 (c/n 15280280). Previously ZK-UVW, it appears to have scrubbed up well. It was first registered to NAC (Nelson Aviation College) on 17-03-2003 with its re-registration taking effect from 07-12-2011.

ZK-ING

2011-12-21T19:38:00.000+13:00

The Hughes 269B ZK-ING (c/n 123 0011) did a circuit at Christchurch today. A much nicer machine after the TLC received lately at Heli Maintenance.
For an earlier blog on this airframe see :

http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/02/noted-on-04-02-2011-in-heli-maintenance.html

That will be "Anonymous" doing the driving !

Robinson 44. One & the same.

2011-12-21T18:51:00.000+13:00

Robinson R44 Raven 1 N502KG (c/n 1696) has finally entered the NZ Register as ZK-IEE on 15-12-2011 to F W George of Christchurch. I first noted it at Heli Maintenance on 03-12-2009.
Both pics taken at Heli Maintenance at Christchurch. Upper view on 25-11-2011 and lower view on 20-12-2011.

Southern Air Services Ltd at Thames.

2011-12-21T06:46:00.000+13:00

In a recently published magazine article I mentioned that the Cessna 172H Superhawk ZK-FCW had re-joined Sweet As Air Ltd after a brief spell with Southern Air Services Ltd of Pukekohe.
Southern Air Services Ltd are in fact based at Thames and currently operate the Victa Airtourer 115 ZK-CMF (c/n 157) and the Schweizer 269C ZK-HID4 (c/n S1739).

Check out www.pilotschool.co.nz

Thanks to Ian Raine for pointing out the error and for supplying these two photographs.

SKiDiViNG KiWiS at Rangitata Island

2011-12-21T06:45:00.000+13:00

Now operating out of Rangitata Island is SKYDiViNG KiWiS. Above is their Jump Ship Cessna 180 ZK-BUQ (c/n 32995). This is a very well known Cessna down this way - having been operated by Rural Aviation, followed by Southern Scenic Air Services, Tourist Air Travel, Luggate Game Packers, Alpine Helicopters and then a series of private owners. In more recent times it has been with the Otago Aero Club and Pal Air.

Check out http://www.skydivingkiwis.com/index.html

You can find then off SH1. Take the turn of SH1, between the two Rangitata Island bridges. It is normally marked by a fluttering skydiving flag.

Boeing 737-400 ZK-JTQ

2011-12-21T00:48:00.001+13:00

Jetconnect's retired its last "classic" Boeing 737-400 from service on 15 November this year with ZK-JTQ flying its final revenue services under the Qantas banner as QF126/125 Auckland-Brisbane-Auckland.

With titles removed ZK-JTQ underwent an ownership change to Airwork Flight Operations on 09 December and the aircraft is now hangered at Auckland minus engines. The fate of ZK-JTQ is unknown but it may well end up the same as Air New Zealand's Boeing 737-300 ZK-NGF and be slowly parted out.

ZK-JTQ was delivered to Christchurch on 22 June 2006 as QFA6011 from Melbourne having "retired" from the Qantas mainline fleet where it flew as VH-TJQ and was the second -400 in the Jetconnect fleet.

ZK-JTQ entered service the following day when it ferried to Auckland as QFA6172 and operated its first revenue service for Jetconnect as QFA4043 from Auckland to Wellington.
Its introduction to service was bought forward due to multiple disruptions caused by a Sydney fog closure and maintenance issues.

Noel J photo

Question time #143 resolved.

2011-12-20T17:38:00.002+13:00

Cessna185 takes home the chockie fish.

It is indeed the Sigma 4 ZK-JRC2.

First clue was the nosewheel.

Second clue was the fuselage tail cone.

Nee ZK-IEC..... updated

2011-12-20T01:08:00.000+13:00

As blogged during winter 2011, http://nzcivair.blogspot.com/2011/07/nee-zk-iec.html, ZK-IEC became

P4-SDL and was spotted flying from the wharf at Brisbane to Redcliffe on 10 August and a week later arrived at Cairns from Grayling. It was subsequently noted around the Cairns region before returning to NZ and was inside the Eurocopter hanger at Ardmore on 04 October. It was out flying 19 December and is seen here after returning to Ardmore.

Question time #143 revisited.

2011-12-19T22:35:00.001+13:00

Question time # 143 revisited.

Tell me all !

Especially - Aircraft Type.

Even have a guess at the registration .

****************************************************

Nobody has come forth with the correct answer yet ?

Clue number two below

Taupo report

2011-12-19T20:27:00.000+13:00

Piper PA31-310C Navajo C ZK-MJF (c/n 31-7912089) came from Canada and was registered using the initials of its new owner M J Funnell as its registration on 16-06-1994. John re-listed it to Helicopter Services (BOP) Ltd on 27-02-01. On 01-09-2011 it was transferred to the New Plymouth Aero Club and is used in the air ambulance role as required. Its maintenance is still carried out at Taupo by Helicopter Services and it is seen above parked outside their facility today.
Below is the New Plymouth Aero Club Partenavia P68B ZK-ZSP (c/n 129) which came over to uplift the Navajo pilot.

Fifty seven years old and still providing good service is the De Haviland Canada Beaver ZK-FPZ (c/n 717). Built for the US Army it went civil in Texas in 1972 and then to Alaska from 1979. It came to NZ in 1988 for Float Air Picton. It sunk at its moorings in March of 1990 during high winds, went to Taupo for a rebuild and has been there ever since. It is currently listed to Venture Air Ltd and is seen here on 11-12-2011 outside Helicopter Services awaiting an engine part.

Seen on the 09-12-2011 was the Advanced Flight Ltd's Eurocopter EC 130 B4 ZK-IBX2 (c/n 4445).

Report and photographs by Henry McIntyre.

Rangitata Island Christmas fly in #4

2011-12-19T11:33:00.001+13:00

Four more visitors to Rangitata Island were the Tim Ward Europa Classic ZK-TIM2 (c/n 292) down from Rangiora
Below is the Alpi Pioneer 300 ZK-TRB2 (c/n 200) of Robert Trotter over from Fairlie.

The Slepcev Storch U/L ZK-WAZ (c/n SS4 UL 097) of Gavin Ladbrook came up from Timaru.

From the Waimate Aero Club came the Rans S-6S Coyote 11 ZK-WTE (c/n 02081869).

The aim of these fly in days at Rangitata Island
- In Russells words -

"Is to put a bit of welcome and relaxation back into the aviation world. Too much rush and too many security fences today".