AVIATION IN NEW ZEALAND.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3853, 4 October 1928, Page 3

AVIATION IN NEW ZEALAND.

TAUMARUNUI TO PURCHASE ’PLANE. Taumarunui has formed a company to promote aviation there, and it has been decided to purchase the latest type of Moth aeroplane. Provision has been made for the erection of one or more hangars on the racecourse which has been granted the club free of charge for 21 years. A qualified pilot who has had considerable war experience is available locally, also two qualified mechanics. Messrs Goodwin and Chichester, of Wellington, have been advised that an Avro-Avian ’plane imported by that firm, is qow being assembled at Christchurch, and as soon as that is done, and the machine thoroughly tested, it will be taken to Wellington and employed in making pleasure trips. The aeroplane is designed for safety and comfort in flight, rather than for “stunting” of any description. It is the same model as that used by Hinkler on his wonderful solo flight to Australia. The engine is a four-cylinder, 30-3 S h.p. “Cirrus.” The wings fold in, and then the machine measures only 24ft. over-all in length by 9ft. 6ini wide.

The services of Mr. G. Bolt, of Rotorua, have been secured as pilot. Mr. Bolt will be remembered in Wellington as the pilot who made the first seaplane trip from Auckland to Wellington about three years ago. The ’plane will carry one passenger as well as the pilot.

An Aero Club, with a membership of 87 was formed in New Plymouth last night by an enthusiastic gathering of over 100 people and it was decided to invite Sir John Salmond to visit New Plymouth.

With an eye to future developments, Cr. Goldsmith stated at the Levin Borough Council meeting on Monday evening that the Council should look out for a place that would make a suitable landing-ground for aeroplanes (says the Chronicle). He suggested that inquiries be made of the Defence Department as to the general requirement in this connection. He thought that there were areas in or near Levin that could be rendered suitable for the purpose at very little expense. Cr. Roe endorsed the suggestion, and it was referred to the Town Clerk for investigation.