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OMAKA WINGS & WHEELS DAY 4th FEB. 10am-2.00pm.
We promised you a special day every second month and the next is Saturday 4th February. This day is designed for our members to display their own private aircraft and enjoy a social day with friends, family and the visiting public.
A highlight of the day is expected to be the awesome Focke Wulf 190, which pilot Frank Parker will be putting through its paces. The FW190 will be joined on the fence line by several WW1 machines, the Yak3, Boeing Stearman, Tiger Moth, Nanchangs and other local heritage aircraft, along with modern sport aircraft. Friends of the Bristol will be on hand to escort visitors through the Bristol Freighter.
A sausage sizzle will be on and there is always great coffee at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
As the names suggests, for this and future Omaka Wings & Wheels Days, we will be combining with our neighbours, Omaka Classic Cars. Not only with there be aircraft out on display and flying, but there will be a selection of classic cars to view as well. We hope that both displays will entice visitors inside to view the larger collections.
There is no charge for outside viewing but normal fees apply for the exhibitions, unless of course, you hold a Wings & Wheels Ambassador card… details below!
Omaka Wings & Wheels Day is proudly supported by The Breeze, Marlborough
BECOME A WINGS & WHEELS AMBASSADOR
Because we recognise the pride that local Marlburians take in both the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and Omaka Classic Cars, we are launching the Wings & Wheels Ambassador Card.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre showcases human stories from the Great War brought to life with stunning theatrical treatment. Captivating scenes depict the aircraft in context, some recreating actual incidents.
Omaka Classic Cars is a collection of almost 60 cars from the 1950s to the 1980s offering a special insight into both Marlborough and New Zealand motoring from that charismatic time where space, grace, chrome bumbers, large grilles and individual design were allowed to run wild. From Austins to Zodiacs with Fords, Holdens, Jaguars and more, the range is extensive and changes every few months to include more of the 110 or so in the total collection.
Visiting the Aviation Heritage Centre costs $25 and Omaka Classic Cars $12.50. With a Wings & Wheels Ambassador Card you pay just $50 and receive 12 months unlimited access to both of these wonderful attractions. It is also a great gift idea – a thoughtful present that lasts for 12 months! Applications are via the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, 79 Aerodrome Rd, Omaka.
(To learn more about Omaka Classic Cars the link to their website is here
10 December Open Day Photos
There was a great lineup of aircraft on the 10th December to help us celebrate our birthday with the visiting public. Among them were the Fw190, Stearman, Tiger Moth, Bristol Fighter,Sopwith Pup, Fleet 16, Nanchang, Yak3 and Niueport 11 (which had only flown for the first time days before). Gavin Conroy photos
Birthday Dinner
On Friday evening 9th December, Omaka friends and supporters celebrated our first five years AND Christmas, with dinner in the reception foyer. 87 people enjoyed a delicious buffet menu and some of Marlborough’s finest wines from our sponsors.
Brian Greenall, Chairman of The New Zealand Aviation Museum Trust and Jane Orphan, CEO spoke to the gathering, thanking everyone for their support. Staff, volunteers, trustees and sponsors were praised, as were the many individuals who have helped to run the highly successful Classic Fighters, our biennial fundraising air show.
Since Dec 2006 over 134,000 people from around the world have visited the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Birthday Bash Saturday 10 Dec
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is about to turn five! To celebrate we are having a 1/2 price day, so adult admission is just $12.50 and children $5. We will also round up some of the local aircraft, as per our Members' Flying Days. They will be parked along the fence line and many will take to the air at times during the day. This is not an air show, but there will be some rather interesting aircraft on view. So come over and tour the amazing Knights of the Sky exhibition, inspect the aircraft and even enjoy a piece of birthday cake on us!
PRECIOUS METAL BOOK LAUNCH
Wednesday, November 16 from 5.30-7.00pm at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Aviation fans will be familiar with Gavin Conroy's magnificent Air 2 Air photography, which has been featured in international aviation publications and also in his calendars, which have covered the Omaka Aviation Hertiage Centre, Classic Fighters, The Vintage Aviator Ltd and New Zealand Warbirds aircraft.
Now Gavin has published his eagerly awaited book and the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is delighted to host the launch function, to which there is an open invitation.
RRP is $59.99 but for the launch night only the price will be $55.00
Gavin is offering everyone that comes along the opportunity to go into a draw for a free ride in a Nanchang while Air 2 Air photos are taken of the winner. The flight will only be available on the night of the launch and is subject to weather and serviceability.
If you will be attending this launch, please rsvp to us here at Omaka. See our contact page for details
PENGUIN COMES TO LIFE AT OMAKA
Another little milestone took place on 4th October with the first engine run of the little Morris Penguin in, we believe, over half a century. Watch on youtube
This is quite an historic machine. The Henderson engine has a place in history having powered so many of the early single seat flivvers from the late 1920's onwards, like the Heath Parasol, Clancy Skybaby, Dormoy 'Bathtub', Church midwing etc etc. but you rarely see them today.
This machine was built in Sydney in the 1930's by a chap named Howard who wanted his kids to become interested in aviation. Both sons later became Qantas 747 captains, so it seems to have done its job! The aircraft later went to Sid Marshall's famous collection at Bankstown, NSW, initially used as a sign to attract people to his joyflight operation, and later in his museum. It was subsequently included in the Drage Airworld collection at Wodonga, and then at Wangaratta, Vic. When that collection was sold, AHC trustee bought it and brought it back to Omaka with the syndicate Tiger Moth, (now ZK-BER). The Penguin has essentially been stored however Al Marshall did some initial overhaul work on it, and this was continued by Scott Tudor who took on the complete overhaul under the direction of Dan Frew of JEM Aviation, and with Hayden Sutton helping from time to time. That these lads are all aged between 19 and 27 shows that the next generation is definitely producing the right calibre of individuals to be taking over the care of these historic aircraft in the years ahead!
It is hoped to refine the airframe a little now, in order to prepare the Penguin for a return to its original role of encouraging youngsters into the world of aviation!
DELIVERY TO OMAKA AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE OF DOUGLAS A4K SKYHAWK NZ6216
Some Background History:
31 July 1967 First flight at Douglas factory in Long Beach, California.
29 April 1968 Delivery to US Navy
26 October 1969 Commenced operational service in Vietnam off aircraft carrier USS Ranger
2 August 1969 Continued operational service in Vietnam off USS Hancock
31 July 1970 Conversion begins to A4G model prior to sale to Australia
18 March 1971 Delivery to Royal Australian Navy
20 July 1984 Delivered to RNZAF Base Ohakea on sale to New Zealand. Converted to A4K model
11 December 2001 Final flypast at Ohakea
13 December 2001 RNZAF Air Combat Force disbanded
18 December 2001 Final flight into storage at RNZAF Base Woodbourne
The Skyhawk fleet has been maintained in storage by SAFEAIR under the auspices of the Air Combat Force Disposal Unit at Ohakea
The ACF Disposal Unit removed NZ6216 from storage on 24 September 2011 and prepared it for delivery to the Omaka AHC
The aircraft had its latex protective coating stripped off, and the following items were removed:
- The engine and some avionic components which formed part of the package bein
g sold overseas
- All weapons and munitions capability
- Ballast weights
Delivery to Omaka was made as a donation to the AHC by Arthur Deans Lifting, a well known Blenheim company, who transported the aircraft on a low-loader and lifted it into its new hangar. Arthur Deans is also involved in other Skyhawk deliveries. In those cases, the aircraft are being dismantled while NZ6216 was taken to Omaka intact. Transport was in the dark, early hours of the morning of 29 September along New Renwick Road. Our thanks also to Simcox Construction who assisted with earthworks to improve some difficult terrain enroute.
At Omaka, AHC staff will continue with the cleaning of the aircraft after its years in storage and commence a routine maintenance programme set out by the RNZAF. This will not be onerous as several AHC members and supporters have Skyhawk maintenance experience by way of service with the RNZAF and/or SAFEAIR.
NZ6216 will eventually be displayed in the main AHC complex as it expands to cover more recent aviation. Meanwhile, along with other aircraft associated with the AHC, it will be housed in the industry park complex alongside the AHC building, which is periodically open to visitors.
The Omaka AHC is particularly grateful for all the invaluable assistance provided by the RNZAF, RNZAF Museum, Arthur Deans Lifting, Simcox Construction, JEM Aviation, SAFEAIR and all our members and supporters who have made this project a success.
Finally, thank you to the New Zealand Government who, from the outset, selected the Omaka AHC as a custodian of one of these very historically significant aircraft, and their trust in us.
Photos from top tp bottom: Skyhawk 6216 being loaded at Base Woodbourne ready fpr transport; Extra stability for the trip was provided by the A4 aft fuselage hoist, which worked perfectly; By dawn the Skyhawk was being manouevred into its new storage hangar at Omaka; Chair Brian Greenall (right) and Trustee David Bamfield AVM retired, sign the Bailment Agreement for the Skyhawk on behalf of The New Zealand Aviation Museum Trust; Jay McIntyre, also a Trustee, has made space in his hangar for storing the Skyhawk.
Next Open Day will be Saturday 8 October 
10am -4pm
The magnificent Yak3, Russian WW2 fighter will be on display and taking to the air during the day. It will be joined on the fenceline, by another Yak being restored at the JEM Aviation hangar.
Vintage biplanes Boeing Stearman, Tiger Moth and Fleet 16 will be there and a range of classic tail-draggers and the Nanchangs. There will be tours of the big Bristol Freighter and you can expect it to fire up those engines around mid-day.
The Marlborough Aero Club will have their fleet out and available for trial/scenic flights, and they will be joined by a variety of aircraft privately owned by Club members.
The event is free of charge but while visiting, you may wish to take the opportunity to view the Great War Knights of the Sky exhibition or the Marlborough Classic Cars. Both will be open and the usual fees apply. Tickets to either museum can be purchased at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Open Day 24 September
A great day was had by all when we combined with the Marlborough Aero Club for a Open Day/Flying Day on Saturday 24th September. Our members brought their own aircraft out to be displayed for the public, plus a number took the opportunity to enjoy some flying, especially the 3-seat Boeing Stearman, which is soon to become available for commercial joy rides.
The Bristol Freighter blew copious quantities of smoke when it fired up its Hercules engines and many visitors enjoyed touring through the Bristol's interior and cockpit.
Undoubtably the highlight of the day was the aerial display by Arthur Dovey in his WW2 Yak 3 fighter. Arthur flew up from his home base in Wanaka to join us. He has left his precious Yak here at Omaka with the intention of repeating the performance at out next Open Day on November 8th.
Offical Capping Ceremony for the Russian Team
On September 8th, the Russian team’s official Capping Ceremony took place in a marquee on our grass terrace with around 200 guests attending. They turned out to be an enthusiastic and good-natured bunch who enjoyed touring the museum, as well as clambering over and into most of the aircraft parked outside!
Russian Aircraft At Omaka
With Marlborough hosting the Russian rugby team during the World Cup, it was decided to make them feel especially welcome by painting a number of aircraft in Russian schemes. In addition to the Hurricane, as seen below, two Nieuports (owned by NZAMT trustees) also took on Russian plumage.
The N.11 in the Classic Wings hangar has been finished in the colours of a later Nieuport 24, and wears post-revolution red-star markings. The aircraft is complete and has had its first engine so will soon be ready for CAA inspection. JEM Aviation have been hugely helpful in completing this project. The aircraft will eventually be refinished in its intended French colours.
The second Nieuport is the N.16 being completed by Eric Driver, Rex Handley and Brian Greenall and this is wearing earlier pre-revolution markings of red/white/blue Russian roundels and some very distinctive artwork.
A third representative Russian machine of the WW-I era is the Morane Saulnier ‘G’ being built by Dave and Jim Lochead supported by a stella team of volunteers. The intention was to create a specific Russian display and there could be no more creative a story to tell than that of Alexander Kozakov who was known for his innovative ways of attacking enemy aircraft, including his outrageous attempts to snare unsuspecting German machines with a grappling hook and blow them up with explosives. The replica being built for the museum is intended to be airworthy, but not flown in the short term as it has a static role to play first. It is hoped that in the future, the Morane will be completed to flying condition and will be able to take part in the planned regular flying days associated with the AHC in the years ahead.
HAWKER HURRICANE
Our resident Hurricane gate guardian enjoyed a subtle change of colour scheme earlier in the year to appear in the markings of one of three examples used by RAF 43 Sqn. During a period in WW-II when our own Bunty Bunt was flying Spitfires on the squadron. Bunty naturally flew the Hurricanes from to time as well and has fond memories of the type, so we thought it would be appropriate to repaint our resident machine as one of Bunty’s Hurricanes in time for the Easter Airshow. Amazingly, Bunty was tracked down by a serving officer in RAF 43 Sqn and Jo was quick to grab the opportunity of photographing the two together with ‘their’ Hurricane!
With the RWC looming, the Hurricane colours changed again to represent a lend-lease machine operated by the Red Air Force. There is a specific NZ connection with the Russian Hurricane via the RAF commanding officer Ramsbottom-Isherwood. He was a New Zealander who lived in Marlborough and even flew with the Marl Aero Club pre-war.
Holiday Fun - Find Curtiss the Kiwi
Curtiss and his friends are hiding in all sorts of places around the museum. Follow the clues to find him. All correct entries win a prize!
Major changes to the exhibition
The last three weeks leading up to Easter saw the arrival of a team from the 14-18 Heritage Trust who came to recreate the memorabilia displays to include the second hallway, previously kept on hold as an arcade of a small number of large photographs.
The team, led by the very creative Joe Bleakley, set about pulling out much of the existing display area and creating a new mix that includes an extraordinary range of remarkable original artefacts, naturally mostly from WW-I but also including some pioneering materials as well as some related post-WW-I artefacts. The new displays are truly remarkable and once again underpin just how lucky this community, and indeed the whole of New Zealand is, to have someone with the amazing combination of knowledge, passion and commitment that we have seen from Sir Peter Jackson as Chairman of the 14-18 Heritage Trust that has gathered this material from around the globe to make it available here at Omaka. How very privileged we all are!
In addition to the memorabilia displays, the aircraft displays at the Omaka AHC have also experienced some changes. Leaving are the Albatros B.II and the D.H.5 and the Bristol Fighter structure from the workshop scene. Returning is the R.E.8, now joined by the lovely and very large Curtiss MF flying boat, an original from the WW-I era, and the unusual Thomas Morse Scout, this example modified post-war as a two-seater. The Fokker Triplane display of three of the Jasta 11 machines has grown once again to its full complement, but now comprising the aircraft of Manfred and Lothar von Richthofen, Wenzel and Weiss. For the first time, these have been displayed ‘shoulder to shoulder’ adding dramatically to the presence commanded by this significant collection of machines. The Omaka AHC has never looked better.
Conference Delegates Enjoy an Evening at Omaka
Delegates from the Actuaries Conference held in Marlborough were treated to a themed evening at Omaka, which included a code-breaking exercise with the clues found inside the exhibition.
All our guides were dressed in period uniform and additional re-enactors and their equipment were on hand to lend some authenticity.
Three lucky delegates won joy flights in the Nanchang, Tiger Moth and Fleet.
Bunty celebrates a Milestone
One of our most popular guides celebrated his 90th Birthday with a cocktail function at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Family and friends travelled from around the country to share the day with Bunty.
Photo: Marty Nichol presents Bunty with a replica Spitfire stick grip. Left of Marty is Mayor Alistair Sowman, Bunty in his guide’s uniform, local historian Robert Montgomery and Trevor Kearney.
The Great Kiwi Road Trip
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is one of the Pit Stops on the Great Kiwi Road Trip, organised by AA Travel.
While you are on the road, call in and collect our special PASSWORD. Collect these and you could be in to win a Mazda 2! Check out the details of the competition and great travel tips on the AA website
Visitor number 100,000!
On 26 August we celebrated our 100,000th visitor to Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, with champagne and a gift package for our lucky customer. A young couple from Motueka, Nathan Howes and Jess Tegroen had been touring the South Island when they saw the Omaka sign and made an on-the-spot decision to drop in. Their visit took us past the milestone number.Congratulations Nathan and Jess!
School Holiday Challenge Winner!
The entry from nine year old Toby Simpson of Wellington was judged the competition winner. Tony's entry was carefully drawn with distinctive New Zealand themes for each of the insignias - a Tuatara for the South Island and a Weta for the North.
Toby's was one of many colourful entries that came in from around the country. There is plenty of imagination out there and we loved seeing the creative work from so many children. Well done to everyone who entered!
Shona Renner from the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was traveling through Wellington, so she offered to present the prize in person. Toby's choice was the Soviet MiG fighter.
School Holiday Challenge
Imagine if the North and South Islands of New Zealand had separate Air Forces in WW1. The challenge for these school holidays is to design an Air Force insignia for each Island. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre to pick up your forms or download them from this site. Visit the museum and check out all the original colourschemes and insignias for some inspiration and then let your own creativity run wild!
Attach your entry receipt to your form and submit by Sunday 18th July to be in to win a Century 21 Starfighter or MiG 1:18 scale model valued at $150!
To download forms click here: South Island and North Island
Good luck!
Anzac Day Opening Hours
On 25 April we will not open until 1pm, out of respect for our service men and women. The majority of our guides and staff attend the morning parade.
Classic Fighters Omaka 2009 DVD
Over the Easter weekend of 2009, Marlborough, New Zealand hosted one of the most colourful, fast-paced and spectacular aviation events ever held in the southern hemisphere. The hugely successful Classic Fighters show has been recorded for all time in this dramatic DVD production, designed to reflect that iconic event with the same punchy, exciting tempo as the show itself, ensuring you'll want to watch it many times, AND book your tickets for the next Classic Fighters show in 2011!
Link to YouTube Release Trailer
The DVD is receiving rave reviews from people from around the world. Buy your copy online NOW!
"Congratulations on a fantastic DVD that manages to show the event as it was. An unforgetable experience!" P. Marton, Australia.
"I received my 2009 DVD in the mail today! It is awesome and incredible! Thank you for your efforts. I am going to hopefully arrange to make plans to attend in 2011!" R. Apitz, USA
The following is a review in the California-based publication Pacific Flyer
by Editor Wayman Dunlap
"Classic Fighters Omaka 2009
We've never been to New Zealand but here's something we didn't know, those Kiwis really know how to put on a warbird show.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Center sent us a DVD that runs almost an hour about their 2009 show that was held Easter weekend in Marlborough, NZ. It was, truly, one of the best produced, best edited, most colorful and had the best background music of any DVD I've ever seen.
They only hold this show every two years and it's conducted entirely to fund the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center. Truly, the action never stops, shot from the ground and in the air by true professionals.
Here's a taste of what's on it: Yak formation flight, F4U Corsair, Venetian gondaliers being chased by a shark (trust us) across a field, several hundred reenactors with everything from WW II and WW I, including an actual moving tank with a working machine gun, a race car with a Merlin engine, a Vespa team that comes flooding out of giant twin engined Bristol transport, two UH-1 Hueys, a five plane formation act (the Red Checkers) whose planes were originally built by a lawnmower company, a P-40 Kittyhawk with Flying Tiger teeth, a freshly restored, authentic British Spitfire, a P-51D, T-6s, a DC-3, and as a special guest of the reenactors, Benito Mussolini.
A full pitched battle went on between the Kiwis and the Germans, with ground attacks, cannon fire (they even have a 105mm howitzer they fired), three rare deHavillands from the '30s, all flying - a DH-89 Dragon Rapide, A DH-83 Fox Moth and a DH-90 Dragon Fly (many shot air to air, beautiful!). Then the WW I fighters - British, French and German - took the air for some creative dogfighting.
Then a restored Avro 504K was rolled out, plus an Royal Air Corps BE2F, also "painstakingly restored."
The owners/pilots of many of these planes had pithy comments, often in funny accents, explaining how many hours went into rebuilding them - the Spitfire took 35,000 hours, for example - plus insightful comments from narrator Peter "Mac" McQuarters. The weather at Marlborough was absolutely fantastic for an airshow and they even held a night show, with fireworks and aerobatic formation flying!
The DVD we got wouldn't play on our old machine at home, so we brought it into the office and plugged it into our new MacBook Pro and it displayed beautifully. They told me that it's supposed to be playable on any set anywhere (except the one we have at home, made in 1895). The price of the DVD was about $29 but I lost the news release so check out their website at www.omaka.org.nz to find out and order one.
You'll want to watch this one again and we want one of our readers to have ours, so if you're interested, send an e-mail to editor@pacificflyer.com and put "Kiwi DVD" in the subject line. You have until the 25th.
Happy Birthday!!
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is turning 3 on the 9th December 2009.
To celebrate we will be offering 1/2 price entry and a piece of Birthday cake, so come on down to see us. We open as usual at 10am and the 'Friends of the Bristol' will have the Bristol Freighter open for inspection from 11am.
Bristol Freighter Open Days
The magnificent ex-Safe Air Bristol Freighter ZK-CPT has taken up temporary residence alongside the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Since its time in the limelight at Classic Fighters, the Bristol has been called upon to fire up its engines on sev
eral occasions, most notably for the Aviation Industry Association dinners at Omaka in late July.
Now, members of the 'Friends of the Bristol' plan to hold open days, when they will be available to show visitors inside the aircraft and talk about its operational history. The first se open days are timed to coincide with the School Holidays:
Saturday 3rd October 11.00am - 3.00pm and Sunday 11th October 11.00am - 3.00pm.
Open Days:
Wednesday 9 December 11.00am - 3.00pm
Saturday 21 November 11.00am - 3.00pm
During late Summer/Autumn, the Bristol has been frequently open for tours. An announcment is made inside the museum to let visitors know. If you have a special request regarding the Bristol or wish to ensure it will be open on the day you visit, please contact us.
INTRODUCING.....'THE CHARIOTS OF FIRE FIGHTER COLLECTION'
In an exciting new initiative a significant aircraft collection is being assembled in New Zealand. The collection brings together two fighters from the First World War and two from the Second World War. Company CEO is Murray Miers, a Kiwi based in Africa. Murray has a deep interest in both the historical aspects of these machines and in the flying qualities they offer the pilot and he intends to become fully familiar operating each of these aircraft.
The first aeroplane purchased for the collection was the Le Rhone powered Sopwith Pup 
built in 1961 by noted pioneer of WW-I aircraft reproductions, Joe Pfeiffer in California. This machine is now nearing the end of refurbishment by Antique Aero Engineering at Omaka. When completed it will fly in the colours of New Zealand WW-I ace Malcolm 'Mac' McGregor. Perhaps better known for his post-war flying (including participation in historic races such as the 1934 McRobertson event), McGregor scored the first of his aerial victories in Pup A6192 on 6th June 1917 when he downed an Albatros D.III near Cambrai. McGregor so liked A6192 that he christened it 'Peggy' in honour of his sister.
The second WW-I machine is a Fokker D.VIII reproduction built in the USA by the late Paul Musso and powered by an Australian built Rotec R.3600 radial of 150hp. This machine provides a German combatant for the Pup but will be undergoing some additional work before it commences flying with the collection.
Due for delivery later this year is the FlugWerk FW190A-8/N produced by Claus Colling's team in Germany. This is actually the first of the FlugWerk production aircraft, D-FWWC and as such, made history on 22nd July 2004 when it was the first 'Butcher Bird' to take to the skies anywhere in the world 
since the war years. Claus' team has been upgrading the aircraft with improved oil cooling and other systems resulting from experience gained with the subsequent FW190 completions. The Chariots of Fire Focke Wulf wears the colours of Luftwaffe Ace Erich Rudorffer of JG54 and is expected to be flying in New Zealand before the end of the year, with a public debut to be scheduled for Omaka, Blenheim once the arrival time has been confirmed.
The latest acquisition for the collection is the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.XIVe NH799 which was purchased through John Rayner of Platinum Fighter sales in association with Classic Aircraft Sales Ltd.in New Zealand. This significant fighter was recovered as a derelict from its long term resting place in India in 1981 and returned to the UK where it was eventually restored by Historic Flying Ltd for the Alpine Fighter Collection at Wanaka, N.Z. making its public debut at the 1994 Wanaka airshow. Sadly, the aircraft was involved in a serious accident in early 1996 when pilot Sir Tim Wallis was severely injured. Thankfully Sir Tim beat the odds and fought back 
from his injuries to continue to be one of the most significant figures in the 'downunder' warbird scene.
After the 1996 accident, Spitfire NH799 changed hands several times while being worked on by Warren and Colin Denholm's AVSpecs operation, originally in Rotorua and now at Ardmore, Auckland. Work has been intermittent on this machine due to ownership changes. Now under CFFC ownership, the intention is to 'spool-up' the work on NH799, the logical decision being made to have AVSpecs Ltd., now internationally recognized as an award-winning Spitfire specialist shop, complete the job they started over a decade ago after which the Spitfire will take up residence with the ret of the collection at Omaka, Blenheim.
The aircraft of the Chariot of Fire Fighter Collection will be available for film work, airshows appearances and promotional work. For inquiries contact graham@cwd.co.nz or phone NZ 03-578 9609.
Stuka on show ahead of AIA Conference
The full-size replica Stuka built by Lester Hope and his team of dedicated volunteers for Classic Fighters, was moved to its new location outside the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre on 19 July. Here it joins its contemporary adversary, the replica Hawker Hurricane. Both were in position in time for the Aviation Industry Association Conference held in Blenheim over the last week in July. 
A marquee at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was the venue for two evening dinners and over 300 visitors were greeted with the magic spectacle of these two aircraft spotlit at night, as they arrived to enjoy their evenings’ entertainment. To add to the festivities, Al Marshall and Martin Nichol fired up the Bristol Freighter nearby, much to the appreciation of the many engineers present, who fondly remembered its glory days.
Modeling Competition Results
Competitors had a busy time getting their models completed for judging on Sunday, but the results were well worth the effort. Paul Fitzgerald from the Blenheim Modeling Club reported that a high standard kept the judging close, but the following came out as winners. Our congratulations go to:
Over 14 yrs 1st Brynn Davys
10-13 yrs 1st Jesse Dempster (also judged overall best model)
Under 10 yrs Jacob Babb
The raffle for the Hurricane model was won by Harcourt Bunt.
School Holiday Modeling Competition
During the July school holidays we are again running an aircraft modeling competition. Be in to win great prizes! Three age categories: Under 10 yrs, 10-13 yrs and 14 yrs & over. Models must be presented by 4pm on Saturday 18th July for judging at 1pm Sunday 19th July.
Only models purchased at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre will be eligible to enter the competition. These are on special for the whole month of July with a 20% discount!
This year we also have the local Blenheim Modeling Club on hand, giving a demonstration during Sunday 5th July. The subject aircraft will be our own Hawker Hurricane, which will be raffled off to a luck winner, drawn on Sunday 19th. The Club has a range of other models on display and members will make themselves available for questions.
UNIQUE V-12 SUNBEAM ON DISPLAY AHEAD OF AUCTION
A remarkable Sunbeam racing car powered by one of the largest aero-engines to come out of a World War One aircraft, has just arrived at New Zealand's Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim.
The Sunbeam was created during the late 1990's by noted New Zealand restorer Wallace McNair of Hamilton who conceived it in the spirit of the Sunbeam Land Speed Record cars of the post WW-I era.Wallace used original Sunbeam components to build up the car, coupled with a rare 1917 Sunbeam Maori V-12 aircraft engine originally built for use in such aircraft as the Handley Page O/400 twin-engined bomber. These imposing aircraft, with a wingspan of 100ft (30 m) were the largest machines operated by Britain during the Great War. The Maori engine is a 12 litre, aluminium block, 48 valve, quad cam producing 270hp @ 2100 rpm. It was considered Sunbeam's most successful aero engine. There were close to 1000 of these engines built before the close of hostilities in 1918, but only 3 are known to exist today.
The chassis is a 1924 Sunbeam 24/60 with a close ratio 4 speed gearbox driving back to a 1.9 :1 rear axle giving 55 mph / 1000 rpm in top, ie. 1800 rpm = 100 mph with the engine redlined at 2400. Since going on the road in 1999 it has toured extensively in NZ and in April 2008 completed a 10 day tour of Tasmania. It has also taken part in a number of Hill Climbs in NZ. This amazing vehicle is considered a direct descendant of the 1914 Sunbeam GP cars which were 3 litre 4 cylinder, but of the same configuration.
The Sunbeam will be on display at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre for several weeks prior to the Classic Fighters airshow this coming Easter. This remarkable vehicle will be run along the crowd line during the airshow, so spectactors will have the unique opportunity to hear this engine in full growl! The Sunbeam will then be up for auction, with the date expected to be Easter Monday. Further details to be confirmed.
'BOYS OWN' FINE ART EXHIBITION
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre hosts its first fine art exhibition called ‘Boys Own’ – a collection of original oil paintings by leading international aviation and marine artist, Spike Wademan.
Spike’s BOYS OWN Exhibition is the culmination of two years work and includes some of his finest paintings to date. His love for the subject matter shines through in his work, which goes beyond mere nuts and bolts to skillfully capture a moment in time or tell a story. 
“My paintings are inspired by a love of history. I wish I’d been there to see it live,” said Spike.
The name of the exhibition is taken from a boy’s annual Spike read as a child in England. “I was given it every year for Christmas and it was full of amazing illustrations and stories of voyages across the oceans, dare-devil pilots, and hunting expeditions into deepest Africa. …………………………………..Sadly this book no longer exists.”
Spike carefully researches each painting, which sometimes proves to be a difficult task, “as there is so little information available before the 1930’s as cameras weren’t that clever back then,” he said. “The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is a great resource especially for myWW1 paintings as it has an extensive collection of full size WW1 aircraft.”
Spike has a long association with Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, having illustrated three posters for the Centre's Classic Fighter Airshow, and just finished the 2009 poster which many think is the best yet.
It is hoped that the exhibition will attract new visitors to the museum including art enthusiasts and Marlborough’s sailing community, as many of the paintings are of grand old ships upon the high seas.
The exhibition opens this Saturday January 24 and runs to April 13 2009.
Spike and the Omaka Aviation and Heritage Centre invite you to the opening of the ‘BOYS OWN’ exhibition this Saturday January 24, 6pm.
Come and experience first-hand a world of adventure and daring, beauty and tragedy, staged against history’s vivid backdrop.
VEHICLES & WINGS AUCTION
24 January at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Vehicles and aircraft will be on display on the grass area outside the museum, with the auction commencing at 3pm. For full details and catalogue, please click here
Tevor Lummis auctioneer
Contact details:
Box 205
Motueka
New Zealand
Phone ++64 3 528 7185
Fax ++ 64 3 528 8199
info@lummisauctions.co.nz
Members' BBQ & Flying Day 29 November
Saturday morning dawned calm and clear for what was to be a delightful BBQ breakfast and relaxed flying day for members of Marlborough Warbirds & Friends of the AHC.
AHC staff and volunteers manned the BBQs while flying members brought their aircraft over to be parked up 
along the fence line, for everyone to enjoy. Many took the opportunity to take friends for joyflights, so members of the public, who were lucky to have chosen this day for a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, were treated to a spectacle of around a dozen classic aircraft coming and going from the historic airfield. These included two Tiger Moths, Taylorcraft, Fleet 16, Porterfield, Aeronca, Andrews Special, Pietenpol Aircamper, baby Cub and Nanchang, along with a sprinkling of modern machines. In addition the magnificent Lockheed 12a, soon to fly again after some extensive repair work, was on show, as well as the recently acquired Waco project.
Omaka Supreme Regional Winner
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre’s volunteers have won the Supreme Award at the Trust Power Marlborough Community Awards, announced on Monday 24 November. The award was in recognition of the many hours these volunteers give in order to share their knowledge and passion for aviation with the community.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is a seven day a week operation, so the demand on volunteers is considerable, yet they are always happy and willing to be there. Whether it is giving a fully guided tour to a group of international visitors or answering questions from a local school group, the volunteers fill a vital role. Each has his or her own background in aviation to draw on, which provides a depth of understanding and experience that would be hard to match. We have both air and ground crew from the Second World War and Korea, commercial airlines, engineering, topdressing and recreational flying. Ask any question about aviation and at least one of our volunteers will know the answer, often from first hand experience.
Congratulations on a well deserved win!
New Breguet Exhibit
A Breguet 14 A2 has gone on display. It will temporarily replace the R.E.8. Both two-seat aircraft were used in reconnaissance and bombing roles.
Read more »
Announcing the Winners of the Modelling Competition 20 July
Under 10s
1st Ryan Appleby (Tiger Moth), 2nd Lachlan Buchanan-Brown (RAAF Spitfire MkVc), 3rd Rosanna Buchanan-Brown (Tiger Moth).
10 -13 Years
1st Hamish Buchanan-Brown (Spad XIII), 2nd Hayley Appleby (Hawker Siddeley Gnat) 3rd Hamish Hayes (Spitfire Mk V)
14 Years and over
1st Pim Greven (Avro Anson), 2nd Andrew Morgan (Me 210), 3rd Luke Ireton (Boeing B-29)
Our congratulations to everyone! The competition was stiff and our two judges, Dave Lochead (of Kiwi Resin Models) and Graham Orphan (Classic Wings magazine) had to make some hard calls to rank the entries. We are all looking forward to the next opportunity to see the craftsmanship of our local modellers.
Modeling Competition Underway
When wintery weather drives you indoors, why not try your hand at modelling? Talk to the guys at Weta Workshop and you'll hear how they got started on a childhood hobby that grew into a career with an award-winning company.
Aircraft models at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre are reduced 25% for the entire month of July and we have a great range of Humbrol paints and glues.
A competition is being run over the school holidays, open to anyone who purchases their model at the Omaka AHC. Entries must be in by Saturday 19 July for judging on Sunday 20th. Models will be on display during Sunday, with the winners announced at 1pm.
There are three age categories: Under 10 yrs; 10-13 Yrs; 14yrs and over (adults welcome).
Vintage Car Club visits Omaka over Easter'08
Hundreds of vintage cars gathered outside the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre on Easter Sunday. The local Vintage Car Club was hosting the National South Island Rally, drawing an eclectic mix of automobiles from around the country. Omaka was on their list of attractions.
As a result, Easter Sunday became one of our busiest days of the year, with over 600 visitors. Staff and volunteers were rushed off their feet! 
There was a lot of good will though and plenty of smiling faces, as visitors enjoyed a picnic on the terrace after their tour of the exhibition.
A special thank you to staff, guides and volunteer helpers for pulling together to make the day a great success for all.
OMAKA AIR PARK UP AND RUNNING!
Marlborough Mayor Alistair Sowman has officially opened the first group of hangars that make up the launch buildings for the Omaka Air Park. In a ceremony that took place on 1st March, Omaka AHC Chairman Brian Greenall explained the philosophy of the organisation and its quest to foster continued growth of aviation in Marlborough, and in vintage aviation especially.
Mayor Sowman reflected on the successes of the related activities at Omaka, specifically the popular biennial Classic Fighters Easter airshow and the highly acclaimed Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, all under the support of the Marlborough Aero Club, owners of the historic field. After outlining the exciting developments of the recent past, The Mayor cut a ribbon stretched between two vintage biplanes (a Tiger Moth and a Fleet 16B) and the Air Park was declared officially open.
The first three hangars completed, each 20m x 25m, all have vintage/warbird focused activities within and have already become homes to over a dozen aircraft and projects, some of them having just arrived in the country. Two more hangars are already well advanced with additional customers lining up. One of the first owners is JEM Aviation, a maintenance and restoration company that has seen owner operator Jay McIntyre with a 'full dance card' for every day of his first year in operation prior to moving into the new premises.
These developments all augur well for continued growth in this exciting part of the country.
Catalina visits Omaka
Omaka was graced with a visit from the beautiful Auckland-based Catalina on Thursday 21 February. Members of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and guests had the opportunity to experience a cost-sharing flight, and as a result the Catalina made two 30 min flights over the Marlborough coast and countryside.
Catalinas were used during the Second World War for maritime patrol and in the “Dumbo” role of air-sea rescue. No Catalinas survived in New Zealand, so we are privileged to enjoy this example, which was purchased by the Catalina Club and flown out from Africa in the mid 1990s.
Gavin Conroy flew alongside and caught this wonderful photograph of the PBY over Omaka Aerodrome.
NZ Vintage Bentley Tour
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is proving a popular destination for car enthusiasts, especially those out touring the country in rallies with their respective clubs.
One of the world’s most prestigious marks converged on the AHC on 4 February. These were Bentleys of the 1920s-30s era, shipped here from around the globe.
What a magnificent sight they made, 
parked Bentleys with Fleet 16b and Tiger Moth at Omaka together outside our building!
Joining them were two resident Omaka aircraft of a similar vintage, a Fleet 16b and a Tiger Moth.
Billboard Successfully Installed
Our advertising billboard was successfully delivered by carrier pigeon and assembled in downtown Wellington on Thursday 29 November.
Soldiers in period costume installed the pieces of jigsaw puzzle over a two-week period, with Weta Workshop’s Richard Taylor on hand for the finishing touches.
Peter Hill of the Wellington Pigeon Fanciers Club confirmed that every bird arrived back home safely after its Cook Strait crossing, 
but several billboard fragments have remained “missing in Peter Hill retrieving messages from pigeonsaction”.
TV One carried the story view here.
And further footage of the event can be watched on YouTube and Weta.
The billboard will be in place on the corner of Dixon and Victoria Streets until the end of December. A timelapse film of the installation can be viewed.
Photos:
Stuart Tantrum and Martin Nicholl getting ready to release the pigeons from outside the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Peter Hill retrieving the 'messages' from his returning pigeons.
Richard Taylor installing one of the final sections.
Richard Taylor and some of the re-enactors who assisted with the billboard installation.
Media Release: Pigeon Post Revived for omaka
The world's first advertising billboard to be delivered by pigeon leaves Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim on Friday aboard 289 homing pigeons.
Each of the 289 pigeons will carry a small piece of the billboard strapped to its leg. The birds will fly to Wellington where the billboard will be pieced together over a period of days in a prominent, central Wellington site.
The purpose of the billboard is to encourage Wellingtonians to visit Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre's world-class collection of World War One fighter planes over the Christmas period.
The Centre opened in December 2006, and features a collection of aircraft in lifelike exhibits created by Weta Workshop. It is widely acknowledged as one of the world's best World War One aviation experiences.
Jane Orphan from the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, said delivering the billboard by pigeon is a celebration of the important role played by homing pigeons during World War One.
"Authenticity is everything in our exhibits, so it was a natural choice to deliver our billboard to Wellington by the most authentic World War One means - homing pigeon," she said.
"Communications technology was still very rudimentary during World War One, so pigeons were used extensively for communicating to and from the battlefront. Over 100,000 pigeons were used during the war and they were incredibly reliable - 95% got through to their destinations with their messages."
The most famous homing pigeons of World War One was Cher Ami, who was awarded the French Croix de Guerre during the battle of Argonne in October 1918. Under heavy enemy fire, and despite being blinded in one eye, shot through the breast and having a leg dangling by a tendon, Cher Ami delivered a message from the front line to the US 77th Division HQ that saved 194 men of the "lost battalion".
The pigeon-posted billboard will be assembled in Wellington between now and the end of November 2007.
Meet the Fokkers October a Great Success
Meet the Fokkers month has been a great success.
Labour Weekend and the special presentation on Saturday evening, attracted good numbers of visitors, who were also treated to musical entertainment by Susan Scott and the Marlborough Sounds Barbershop Chorus.
Presenters Graham Orphan, Tim Sullivan and Jerry Chisum held the attention of the crowd, talking about the Red Baron’s Flying Circus, the development of the Fokker Triplane and what the aircraft is actually like to fly for the modern aviator.
Photo shows our very own 'Tim & Jerry' team of Fokker pilots.
Sponsor Allan Scott’s special ‘Flying Circus’ range of wines was on hand and a good many glasses enjoyed.If you would like to order any of the four wines available (Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir) we are working on an order system, but in the meantime, please contact Allan Scott Family Winemakers direct. www.allanscott.com. Remember to ask for our special Flying Circus selection. I can recommend it!
An Evening with the Fokkers. Saturday 20 October
Savour a glass of Allan Scott's special "Flying Circus" wine selection on arrival (adults only). Wine is also available for sale during the evening.
Tour the Knights of the Sky exhibition.
Enjoy an entertaining and informative presentation on flying the Fokker Triplanes THEN and NOW. Classic Wings editor/publisher Graham Orphan will set the scene with a little history and then Triplane pilots Tim Sullivan and Jerry Chisum will share some of the stories and personal experiences of flying these nimble little fighters. According to Manfred Von Richthofen, the Triplane "climbed like a monkey and manoeuvred like the devil".
Time : 4.00-6.30pm
Date: Saturday 20 October
Venue: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Cost: $25 ($10 for members). Tickets are limited.
October’s ‘Meet The Fokkers’ sponsored by Allan Scott Family Winemakers
All this month we are celebrating the return of four flyable Fokker Triplanes to the exhibition. The foyer has been decorated; used Triplane fabric is available for sale as souvenirs; other Fokker merchandise, such as models, hats and T-shirts are reduced 10% and we have a range of specially labelled wine available via Allan Scott Family Winemakers. Plus there is a special tour and presentation on Saturday 20 October, with guest speakers Graham Orphan, Tim Sullivan and Jerry Chisum.
Following the success of Classic Fighters air show, when seven Triplanes took to the air, the aircraft went into temporary storage, while a Bristol Fighter replaced them in the museum. Now, for the first time since the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre opened, we have a full complement of 21 display aircraft.
Official 2008 Calendar calendar
The Official AHC calendar for 2008 is now on sale. Entitled “TheFirst Warbirds” this calendar features stunning A3 sized photos taken by Gavin Conroy, of some of the flying WW1 aircraft from the collection, as well as several images of the Knights of the Sky exhibition. Priced at only $25 + p&p ($5 within NZ) this calendar would make a great gift. All proceeds go to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Check out more of Gavin's photography on his website Classic Aircraft Photography
Marlborough Warbirds / AHC Newsletter - July/Aug/Sept 2007 President's Report
We are indeed very fortunate to have as our base of activities, the wonderful, historic, Omaka airfield. The field is still largely a time capsule in terms of its appeal for older style aircraft as it offers multiple vectors and an all over grass surface that doesn't become unusable in wet weather (of the type we've had a fair share of just lately)! All of the activities at Omaka, the AHC, the airshows, private aircraft ownership, ag-flying, helicopter ops, gliding etc etc, all revolve around the fact that we are part of an Aero Club that has had a tradition of responsible, thoughtful, stewardship for its entire history. That's no mean feat for any organization.
It would be easy to take the Marlborough Aero Club for granted since it is so well established and professionally run and has always just 'been there'. Our own 'sub-group' if you like, is made up of a broad cross-section of people of whom perhaps two thirds are either currently flying or have held pilot's licenses in years past. For those not currently active in Aero Club matters, I'd urge you to ponder for a moment as to how lucky we are to have this well run organization that owns its own airfield, its own fleet of aeroplanes etc and is at the head of all activities at Omaka. It is one of the strongest Aero Clubs in New Zealand and the facilities available to enthusiasts here are the envy of the whole country (and beyond). If you are not already a member of the Marlborough Aero Club, you might want to think about joining and being a part of what I believe is the best Aero Club in the nation. Of course, if you have not learnt to fly and think that you might one day want to do so, remember the old adage that there's no time like the present. I intend to discuss the whole issue of flight training further in the next newsletter.
Before signing off, I would like to mention how pleased I am about the success of the expanded/combined Nanchang & Tiger Moth syndicate. Itis proving amazingly popular and is well worth supporting, although with just two of the 24 shares remaining, you may want to call right away to secure your place in this exciting opportunity. This will see many more people actively involved in flying vintage and warbird aircraft. It will see both aircraft overhead Omaka a lot more often. It will see access to both Nanchang AND Tiger Moth for the same price previously required to own a share in just one. It will see the hourly rate reduced and it will see the monthly fixed costs reduced. No wonder it is proving so desirable!
I'll no doubt see you over coffee at the AHC sometime!
Cheers for now,
Graham Orphan
Suzan Scott-Alexander - Tiger Flight.
One of our growing number of younger members, Suzan realised a lifelong ambition recently when she travelled to Auckland to follow the path of her great grandmother by taking to the skies attached to the top of a Tiger Moth. Both of Suzan's grandfathers were noted aviators. Her Mum's father was local identity Ron Alexander who used to operate ZK-BSN with the wing-stand on top, often occupied by his aging mother who was active in this role until her 80's, so Suzan is the fourth generation of the family to be involved in aviation and, apart from her own flight training at the Marlborough Aero Club, she decided she wanted to fly atop a Tiger Moth in the family tradition! Suzan's Dad is popular MAC member and former CFI Steve Scott.
Period Cloaks
Greg Olsen of Mapua has created some excellent men’s and women’s capes, which are now available for anyone to wear who would like to enter into the spirit of the age or who is just feeling the cold. The capes come in a range of sizes and are proving very popular with children.
Sponsors’ Board
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre has benefited hugely by the support it has received from the local and wider community. Hundreds of individuals have given their own very precious time and many have donated cash or services. It would be Tony Smale MRDT, Jo Rainey NZTE, Brian Greenall Chairman near to impossible to name everyone but some of these contributions have been substantial and so by way of thanks, the Centre commissioned a sponsors’ board to be installed inside the foyer, above the exit doors. The companies and organizations featured have provided financial support of $20,000 or more.
A special thank you then to the following:
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Canterbury Community TrustBert Collett Redwood Trust, Mayor Alistair Sowman, Tom Mackle, Equus Industries, Wingnut Films, Weta Workshop, Classic Wings, Redwood Trust, Marlborough Lines, Dew & Co, Marlborough District Council
The new sponsor's board was unveiled at an evening function on 27 August. The photo to the upper right shows guests Tony Smale MRDT, Jo Rainey NZTE, Brian Greenall Trust Chair and below are Bert Collett Redwood Trust, Mayor Alistair Sowman and Tom Mackle enjoying the evening.
Education Programmes
Programs are underway in conjunction with John Orchard and the Education department to bring school groups through the facility, so that youngsters of various ages can experience the many areas of history and technology that the exhibits are able to tell. Questionaires have been produced to engage the young visitors in such a way as to ensure they don't leave without having absorbed some valuable lessons. By the end of this year, there should be no child in Marlborough who doesn't recognize the name of 'Grid' Caldwell as a great New Zealand hero.
Tiger/Nanchang Syndicate
A concept has been drawn up by Tony Clarry in consultation with several other members of the Nanchang syndicate and the Tiger syndicate to combine the two groups and there is some very good reasoning behind this. The idea involves expanding the new combined organization to operate the two aircraft, with an ownership base of 24 people. It would mean that each shareholder need own just one share but would have access to two different machines and at noticeably reduced costs, including just one monthly fixed-costs fee (a significant saving here for those with shares in both machines at present).
The aircraft concerned are Tiger Moth ZK-BER, in excellent condition with a recent annual, and Nanchang ZK-JQS, recently factory overhauled with many new items such as radio, TXP, Intercom, upholstery, seat belts etc along with overhauled engine, propeller, brakes, new tyres, tubes etc etc, so a pretty good package between the two machines.
Oral History Project
A project to record some of the early memories of Marlborough’s aviation history is underway. This is a joint undertaking by the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and the Marlborough Museum. In addition to providing a valuable archive of first hand accounts, this material will be edited into a documentary. If anyone has any early photographs or film footage of Omaka, Woodbourne or any Marlborough aviation-related subjects, we would be keen to hear from you.
Past Perfect
Museum collection management software, Past Perfect, has been purchased and installed on our computer. The purpose of this software is to record and track items donated to the museum.
The Marlborough District Council has undertaken a programme to assist local museums to use this software, so we have been able to piggyback on this initiative, achieving a lower price and several hours of free training.
We have quite a substantial collection of books and videos in the upstairs library and volunteers, Murray and Gill Winthrop have kindly offered to put it into some order. Every title will have to be recorded in some detail, along with who donated it, so they have quite a task ahead.
First Flights…
• J-3 KITTEN (BABY CUB)
Sunday 6th May turned out to be a beautiful day for flying classic style taildraggers and proved the ideal occasion for the test flight of Larry Patterson's J-3 Kitten. On this occasion, Evan Belworthy and family visited from Cust for the day, in part so that Evan could test the J-3 and in part so that he could take the family through the Omaka AHC. Well it almost goes without saying that the little Cub look-alike performed flawlessly to the delight of Larry, Evan and all present. In fact it was such a nice day (and there have been many lately) that Omaka seemed to have older style machines overhead almost all day with the Marlborough Aero Club Super Cub airborne almost constantly, while other owners and machines active included Trevor Collins in the Helio Courier, Andrew Johns in the Pacer, Chris Richardson in Tiger 'BER, Graham and Zac in the Champ, Andy Fairhall in his lovely Aircamper and Yak-52 'ZAY took to the skies again after an extended stay, and then ventured north to her new home in
New Plymouth. All in all a great day at the field and congrats to Larry on a job well done!
• 90 HP SUPER CUB
Congratulations also go to Owen Hughes and Pat Lyford on the successful return to airworthiness of their PA-18-90 Super Cub ZK-BTP. Pat would be the first to acknowledge that it was O.D. who put in the bulk of the work, day in day out on this machine to produce the exquisite little jewel we see in the air today. First flight was late on the afternoon of 23rd May and the aircraft flew as a Cub should, with no surprises there. Reg Taylor kept a close eye on the proceedings through the rebuild process, his extensive experience with the Cub family coming in very handy all along the way.
International Museum’s Day
International Museum's Day celebrations (May 18) provided an excuse to throw the spotlight onto the AHC for Blenheim residents. A half-price-special weekend allowed those who'd been holding off visiting the facility to take advantage of this special occasion. The upshot was that the two days saw some 650 people go through the facility, the Sunday's 450 representing a record attendance outside the Easter airshow period. Most interestingly, many locals said they wished they had come earlier, they would be returning, and that they were especially pleased to be able to have somewhere special to bring visitors from out of town or overseas when they come to Blenheim. This was a very positive result for all concerned and a 'great time was had by all'.
Marlborough Warbirds Breakfast BBQ /Flying Day, May 12
Between three and four dozen members attended this function at the AHC on Sunday May 12. The morning was designed to give us an excuse to get together for a social occasion as well as to exercise some of the members aircraft. WE also wanted an opportunity to get some of the AHC’s volunteer guides into the air in suitable aircraft as a way to say “Thank You” for the efforts put into the facility to date.
Children's Book Cub Awards
The Children's Book Cub Awards were hosted at the AHC on May 12 bringing 200 children and parents to the facility. We provided a brief tour of the facility, with photo opportunities outside by the Hurricane and a BBQ was in full swing for the families. It became clear that everyone wanted to come back after having too small a taste of the AHC. Some have already returned for a longer look.
Hurricane In Residence
Sunday 6th May saw the Hurricane finally go on display on the grass terrace outside the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre after Mike, Pat, Graham and Dayna snatched the opportunity to get the aircraft moved before the members' BBQ breakfast set for the following weekend. The aeroplane has drawn much attention and many compliments since being placed on display, the best comments coming from our resident Spitfire/Hurricane/Defiant pilot Bunty Bunt who is just delighted to have the Hurricane displayed where everyone can see it by the AHC café. Bunty, like most RAF fighter pilots of the era, was first a Tiger Moth pilot and during the BBQ breakfast he found himself once again enjoying the fresh air and a view provided by the Tiger's open cockpit as he and Chris Richards savoured the Marlborough scenery from resident syndicate Tiger ZK-BER.
Easter Exhibits Added
Over the past few weeks, several new and significant exhibits have been added to the Knights of the Sky exhibition.
The first addition has the distinction of being the only Caproni Ca 22 aircraft remaining in the world. This machine can be described as a virtual time-capsule, as it has spent most of the past 85 years in storage with the Caproni Museum in Italy. Click for more details
Next is an enthralling collection of artefacts and personal items belonging to some of the most famous aviators on both sides of the conflict during the First World War. This includes personal items of such famous aces as Eddie Rickenbacker, René Fonk, Ernst Udet and Max Immelman amongst others. Click for more details
Finally, complementing the von Richthofen (crashed Fokker Triplane) diorama scene is a display of the actual fabric cross, cut from the starboard side of his famous red Triplane. With it are other items salvaged from the aircraft and his own monogrammed handkerchief along with many other objects belonging to the Richthofen family. Click for more details
Best Museum In The World?
Sydney Morning Herald travel writer Bruce Elder has recently visited the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and has written in his online blog:
"The best Museum in the World? I am not exaggerating."
Opening Photos
Here are several photographs from the official opening on December the 8th:
 The Etrich Taube and Airco DH-2. These examples of early (First World War) aircraft fascinate the first visitors through the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.  Official guests look on as the observer in the Albatros B.II prepares to drop a bomb over the side of the aircraft as it flies over the Allied lines.  A Fokker Eindecker attacks the Airco DH-2 from the rear, using the newly developed synchronisation gear enabling the machine gun to fire between the propellor blades. |
Lift-off December 8th 2006
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was officially opened in Marlborough today; unveiling a unique visitor attraction and significant asset for the region.
Entitled “Knights of the Sky”, the opening exhibition includes one of the world's largest private collections of rare WW1 aircraft that are presented in dramatic tableaux to spectacular effect.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is the product of more than a decade of collaborative activity amongst Marlborough aviation enthusiasts. They have been propelled by a common vision: that the region's nucleus of aircraft enthusiasts, rare aeroplanes, specialist aviation skills, coupled with the historical significance of the Omaka Aerodrome - could become the foundation for a 'flying heritage centre' which would be the focal point for a broad spectrum of aviation activity bringing economic benefit to the region.
Their vision received strong support from the Marlborough District Council and Marlborough Regional Development Trust, both of whom recognised aviation as a key driver in Marlborough's economy and successfully applied to NZ Trade and Enterprise for a Major Regional Initiative grant to build Stage One of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Stage One, which opened today, occupies some 3,000 sqm of purpose-built display area and accommodates a collection of dramatically-staged static displays of original and replica aircraft along with flyable aeroplanes from the WW1 era. The collection is managed by the 14-18 Aviation Heritage Trust, which is chaired by film director Peter Jackson, and has been brought to life in a series of theatrical dioramas constructed with the artistic talent and technical expertise of some of New Zealand's most talented storytellers and special effects wizards.
Speaking at the launch event Mr Brian Greenall, Chairman of the New Zealand Aviation Heritage Trust, which operates the aviation heritage centre, said the Omaka attraction aims to be both educational and entertaining for all ages, while acting as catalyst to attract aviation business and investment to the Marlborough region.
As the centerpiece of the region's aviation cluster, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre forms the nucleus for a range of aviation-related businesses set to grow in the adjacent
Aviation Business Park. These include aircraft restoration/painting/upholstery, vintage/warbird experience flights - even whole aircraft manufacture. Site preparation is currently underway for the establishment of the first five new hangars in the Aviation Business Park with construction due to commence before the end of the year.
Marlborough's tourism industry will also be a key benefactor. The rarity of the aircraft and world-class standard of creativity and craftsmanship of the Stage One exhibition will not only draw aviation enthusiasts from around the globe but will also extend the range of Marlborough's entertainment options for visitors of all ages and interests.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre will be open 7 days per week from 10am - 4pm and is located alongside the Omaka Aerodrome, approximately 5kms from the centre of Blenheim.
For further information, please contact:
Jane Orphan
Chief Executive, Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
03 5791305
027 6777621
jane@omaka.org.nz
www.omaka.org.nz
 The Etrich Taube on display at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. This faithful reproduction of the Taube, which was first flown in 1910, was built in Germany and made a number of flying appearances at air shows in Europe prior to being shipped to New Zealand in late 2005. |
Marlborough Flying High as Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre opens
8 December 2006
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) chairman Phil Lough today congratulated Marlborough on its vision as he opened the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre near Blenheim. NZTE in 2004 provided $2 million in Major Regional Initiative funding to get the project started and a big effort since by the region has resulted in today's official opening of the centre.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre provides a facility for showcasing and maintaining original and replica historic aircraft. Incorporating flying displays, it is expected to promote tourism in the region by educating people about aviation and also act as a focus for the development of the aviation sector.
Speaking at today's opening, Mr Lough said the people of Marlborough had displayed some innovative thinking and energy to develop the project. “The original concept of having an aircraft collection to encourage travelers to stop in Marlborough has developed into this internationally-significant centre that will leverage aviation restoration activity, boost tourism and events, and spawn new aviation business,” Mr Lough said.
He added the centre would be a catalyst for the region to position itself as an international centre for aviation. Preparations for an aviation business park alongside the heritage centre are now underway, a move that will help to attract more aviation businesses to the region.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was the second Marlborough project to receive Major Regional Initiative funding. The first, a Wine Research Centre, was opened in March 2004.
NZTE's Major Regional Initiative funding is a component of its Regional Partnerships Programme, which helps regions to develop and activate sustainable economic growth strategies.
For more information, please contact:
Jo Rainey, NZTE Regional Economic Development Adviser, Nelson
03 546 7285
027 274 9972
Jo.Rainey@nzte.govt.nz
Lift-off is Coming!
Saturday December 9th promises to be a huge day for aviation enthusiasts, WW1 buffs and anyone intrigued by aeroplanes and flying aces. It's the long-awaited opening of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre coupled with Marlborough's annual Harcourts Marlborough Christmas Wings flying display & concert.
The opening exhibition at Omaka is Knights of the Sky - one of the world's largest private collections of WW1 aircraft and rare memorabilia, brought to life in a multi-sensory experience designed to captivate and entertain all ages.
Open to the public from 10:00AM - 4:00PM, followed by the Harcourts Marlborough Christmas Wings flying display & concert which commences at 4.30PM.
Rare Albatros B.II in the Omaka collection
Although most of the aircraft on display in the Knights of the Sky exhibition opening at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre have been kept under wraps until opening day on December 9th, it has been revealed that one aircraft included in the exhibition will be an example of the attractive Albatros B.II.
The B.II was an unarmed German two-seat reconnaissance biplane designed by Ernst Heinkel. First flying in 1914, large numbers of the B.II were built and although it was relegated from front-line service in 1915 following the introduction of the armed C-type two-seaters, the B.II remained in service as a trainer until 1918.
Just two original Albatross B.II aircraft have survived. The aircraft on display at the AHC was completed in Germany during 2000 and is the only representative example of the type to have flown since the 1920's. Along with a number of other aircraft on display, it is a type not previously seen 'downunder'.
 The Albatros B.II, as seen shortly before being moved into the Knights of the Sky exhibition at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. |