In the deep south of New Zealand is Old Mandeville Airfield, home of the Croydon Aircraft Company, specialists in the restoration of vintage and classic aircraft and experts in de Havilland machines. The blurb states that the largest privately owned collection of de Havilland biplanes can be found at Old Mandeville. The standard of workmanship on the aircraft is extraordinary, but don't expect your aeroplane done in a hurry; these guys work at a gradual pace, but the results are second to none.
There is a visitor centre where privately owned aircraft are displayed, and a workshop, where the real magic happens; the two are very different worlds, but the whole is a work in progress, as the owner has big plans.
The display hangar:
The beautiful de Havilland D.H.90 Dragonfly; one of only two in existence.
An unusual aeroplane hiding behind the Dragonfly, what type? (It's a Barber Snark HA-1 designed and built in New Zealand, apparently there were issues with vibration in the drive shaft - thanks Bruce)
Model of famous Auster ZK-AUX. It did actually land on the two carriers listed on the cowl.
Brightly decorated Tiger Moth ZK-BRC and its Mini Me; one of four Tiger Moths there that day.
Musger MG 19a Steinadler
Australian registered unfinished Rapide.
Former RNZAF Aermacchi MB-339CB NZ6475. Many people decry the incongruity of the presense of the 'Macchi' as it is named in the Antipodes, in the collection, but it does illustrate the progress of technology. Besides, it's a piece of Italian craftsmanship! Its pretty!
More next.
There is a visitor centre where privately owned aircraft are displayed, and a workshop, where the real magic happens; the two are very different worlds, but the whole is a work in progress, as the owner has big plans.
The display hangar:
The beautiful de Havilland D.H.90 Dragonfly; one of only two in existence.
An unusual aeroplane hiding behind the Dragonfly, what type? (It's a Barber Snark HA-1 designed and built in New Zealand, apparently there were issues with vibration in the drive shaft - thanks Bruce)
Model of famous Auster ZK-AUX. It did actually land on the two carriers listed on the cowl.
Brightly decorated Tiger Moth ZK-BRC and its Mini Me; one of four Tiger Moths there that day.
Musger MG 19a Steinadler
Australian registered unfinished Rapide.
Former RNZAF Aermacchi MB-339CB NZ6475. Many people decry the incongruity of the presense of the 'Macchi' as it is named in the Antipodes, in the collection, but it does illustrate the progress of technology. Besides, it's a piece of Italian craftsmanship! Its pretty!
More next.
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