Bring Our Birds Home: Preserving New Zealand's Aviation Heritage
Imagine a place where you can walk through history, not just read about it. A place where you can touch the wings that carried New Zealanders across continents, forging connections and shaping the nation's growth. This is the vision behind the "Bring Our Birds Home" campaign, a passionate initiative dedicated to rescuing and restoring iconic New Zealand airliners.
But why exactly is this mission so important? Let's delve deeper and explore the stories behind these "birds" – the remarkable aircraft that deserve a special place back in New Zealand's skies.
The Significance of Preserving Aviation History
New Zealand's aviation story is one of innovation, adventure, and a shrinking world. From the early days of propeller planes to the jet age, these aircraft weren't just machines – they were the lifelines that connected New Zealand to the rest of the world. They carried families on long-awaited reunions, business travelers seeking new opportunities, and even served as crucial transportation links during emergencies.
More than just serving a practical purpose, these planes became ingrained in the national consciousness. Many New Zealanders have fond memories of boarding these aircraft, embarking on journeys that broaden their horizons.
However, time takes its toll. Many of these once-proud birds now lie neglected in far-flung corners of the world. This is where Paul Brennan, broadcaster, media artist, and aviation enthusiast who launched "Bring Our Birds Home", steps in, determined to bring these national treasures back to New Zealand, where they can be restored and displayed for future generations to appreciate.
The "Birds" We Want to Bring Home
The "Bring Our Birds Home" campaign is dedicated to repatriating six historic New Zealand airliners, each with a unique story and a significant role in the country's aviation history. Here's a closer look at these remarkable aircraft:
Lockheed Electra ZK-TEB (TEAL - Tasman Empire Airways Ltd)
Operated by TEAL from 1959 to 1971
Current owner is Buffalo Airways in Quebec, Canada and registered as C-FIJX
Currently operational as a firebomber in Canada, TEB is the only remaining original TEAL/Air New Zealand L-188C.
The campaign has secured first right of purchase when the aircraft retires in the mid-2020s.
Douglas DC8-52 ZK-NZC (TEAL/Air NZ)
First arrived in 1965 and was used for the Royal Tour to Rarotonga
This historic DC-8 currently sits derelict in Manaus, Brazil, after serving Air New Zealand's international routes until 1981.
NZC holds the distinction of being the only remaining original TEAL/Air NZ DC-8-52.
"Bring Our Birds Home" has a purchase agreement with the owner, pending a court settlement.
McDonnell Douglas DC10 ZK-NZS (Air NZ)
Once a mainstay on Air New Zealand's international routes, including flights to London, NZS now serves as a training aircraft in Cuba.
This DC10 is the only remaining original Air New Zealand DC-10-30.
The campaign has negotiated a swap agreement with Cuban authorities for a retired airliner.
Hawker Siddeley HS-748 ZK-CWJ (Mount Cook Airlines Ltd)
Pioneering tourism in New Zealand's South Island, ZK-CWJ was the first HS-748 delivered to Mount Cook Airlines.
This aircraft holds the distinction of being the only remaining original Mount Cook Airlines Hawker Siddeley HS-748-2A-242.
Negotiations are underway with Bismillah Airlines of Bangladesh to acquire CWJ.
Boeing 737-219 ZK-NAD (National Airways Corporation/Air NZ)
NAD holds historical significance as the aircraft that launched New Zealand's first commercial domestic jet service in 1968.
Currently derelict in North Carolina, NAD is the only remaining original NAC/Air NZ B737-219.
The campaign has secured a purchase agreement with the Charlotte Aircraft Corporation.
Boeing 747-419 ZK-NBV (Air NZ)
The final Boeing 747 to serve Air NZ, NBV operated the airline's last 747 flight in 2014.
This iconic "Queen of the Skies" is the only remaining original Air NZ B747-419.
The campaign has an agreement with AerSale Inc. for the opportunity to purchase NBV upon retirement.
The Future of "Bring Our Birds Home"
The "Bring Our Birds Home" campaign relies on the collective effort of passionate New Zealanders. Through fundraising initiatives and public awareness campaigns, the mission aims to secure the funding necessary to purchase, transport, and restore these historic aircraft.
Imagine a future where these magnificent machines are no longer scattered across the globe, but displayed with pride in a dedicated aviation heritage center. Visitors could walk through cabins reminiscent of a bygone era, marvel at the engineering marvels of their time, and learn about the vital role they played in shaping New Zealand's story.
This campaign is more than just a restoration project; it's a call to action. Its ultimate goal is to preserve and save a tangible piece of New Zealand's history, honoring the ingenuity of the aviation pioneers, and inspiring future generations to dream big and take flight. By supporting this campaign, you're not just saving aircraft—you're saving a vital part of New Zealand's legacy.
Explore Other Historical Aircrafts in National Transport and Toy Museum
The "Bring Our Birds Home" campaign is just a taste of New Zealand's rich aviation history. But if you're looking for other ways to enjoy a glimpse of the past, plan your visit to the National Transport and Toy Museum! Our museum showcases a collection of historical aircraft and other vehicles. Plus, there are more awesome things you can explore!
Don't miss our exciting Easter Air Show featuring over 20 incredible aircraft, with more to be announced! Support "Bring Our Birds Home" and contact us today to plan your visit to the museum this Easter. Let's celebrate New Zealand's aviation heritage together!