1941 - 1950
AMSNZ Publications
by DOUGLAS A. WALKER
This publication covers an exciting period of New Zealand's history with clarity and detailed accounts - creating an invaluable historical document for the aerophilatelist and historian alike.
"AIRMAILS OF NEW ZEALAND, Volume Two, THE OVERSEAS FLIGHTS 1928-1940"
by DOUGLAS A. WALKER
This book is an exhaustive encyclopedia of New Zealand's early overseas flights. Nothing has been left to the reader's imagination - a must for anyone interested in early New Zealand, whether it be to learn about the famous pioneer aviators of the day, the amazing machines of wood and fabric they flew or stamp issues and cachet types that were used on overseas mail at that time.
"THE NEW ZEALAND AIRMAIL CATALOGUE"
Author JAMES A. STAPLETON
The NZ Airmail Catalogue is a must for those interested in stamp collecting, the historian, and those wanting to put a value on their collection of flight covers. It gives clear, detailed information of the first pigeongram flown in 1897 through to the 60th anniversary of Charles T.P. Ulm's trans-Tasman flight celebrated in 1994.
"AIRMAILS OF NEW ZEALAND, Volume Three, THE INTERNATIONAL AIRMAILS, 1940-1970" by ROBIN M. STARTUP
This is the second volume covering International airmails through to 1970. Once again, the historical data of this era of jet-powered flight has been treated with the importance it deserves in this super publication.
"NEW ZEALAND AIRMAIL LABEL & AVIATION CINDERELLA CATALOGUE" by JAMES A. STAPLETON (PRICED)
"THE NEW ZEALAND AIRMAIL CATALOGUE" third edition by JAMES A. STAPLETON - edited by MIKE SHAND
This is the latest catalogue published by the Society and it does not disappoint. Printed on quality gloss paper and being extremely easy to read, there are over one hundred and forty airmail covers displayed, spanning ninety-eight years - from 1911-2009. It contains everything the aerophilatelist, postal historian, or aviation enthusiast could wish for.
For Sale
The AMSNZ also has on its website a number of special flight covers and historic aviation postcards.
Historic aviation photos are also displayed and are for sale.
Air Mail Society Club Meetings
The Air Mail Society of New Zealand holds monthly meetings at its club rooms in Christchurch and postal auctions with all types of associated material on offer at various times; eg. flight covers, airmail stamps, special catchets & cancels, commemorative & anniversary covers, photos, books and more. There is also a very interesting and informative 'NZ Air Mail Newsletter' published monthly and free to members.
If you would like to know more, contact the Air Mail Society through their address below or visit their website.
"THE AIR MAIL SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Inc.,
Box 29-144, Fendalton,
Christchurch,
New Zealand"
THE OVERSEAS FLIGHTS
1941, 18 July
REVISED TRANS-PACIFIC AIR MAIL RATES
Because of the wartime difficulties of the Horseshoe Route and the suspension of the London-Cairo section, a large quantity of N.Z. mail was now being flown on the Pan American Airways Pacific service. The N.Z. Post Office reduced the N.Z.-U.K. air mail rate for standard half ounce letters from six shillings and threepence to five shillings and ninepence with the first mails at this rate being flown from Auckland by the PAA Boeing 314 NC-18602 "American Clipper" commanded by Captain K.V. Beerland.1941, 12 September
FORCES CHRISTMAS CARDS
From this date special lightweight Forces Christmas Cards were made available for posting from the Middle East at the concession rate of 5d (5 cents). These cards had to be posted by 2 December 1941.1941, 5-10 November
REVISED TRANS-PACIFIC ROUTE OF PAN AMERICAN AIRWAYS
To include San Pedro, California, and Suva, Fiji. The first flight was made by PAA Boeing 314 NC-18609 "Pacific Clipper" commanded by Captain John H. Tilton. Cachets were supplied by the US. Postal Departments New Caledonia Postal Administration, Fiji Post Office and the N.Z. Post Office.5-9 Nov: San Francisco-Suva (black, 4182)
4-9 Nov: Los Angeles-Suva (magenta, 2705)
5-9 Nov: San Pedro-Suva (green, 2895)
7-9 Nov: Honolulu-Suva (purple, 3467)
9-11 Nov: Canton Is.-Suva (purple, blue, 3467)
9-11 Nov: Suva-Auckland (purple, black)
9-10 Nov: Suva-Noumea (purple, black)
1941, 11 November
RETURN TRANS-PACIFIC FLIGHT
By Pan American Airways Boeing 314 NC-18609 "Pacific Clipper" commanded by Captain John H. Tilton.11-13 Nov: Auckland-Suva (magenta)
13 Nov: Noumea-Suva (red)
14-13 Nov: Suva-Canton Is. (purple, black) (3450)
14-15 Nov: Suva-Honolulu (purple, black) (2935)
14-17 Nov: Suva-San Pedro (purple, black) (2154)
14-17 Nov: Suva-Los Angeles (purple, black) (265)
14-17 Nov: Suva-San Francisco (purple, black) (4130)
Note: These flights crossed the International Date Line.
(click to enlarge)
Internal
Flight: 1941, 20 Nov.
1941, 15 December-1942, 8 January
LAST PAN AMERICAN FLIGHT
By Boeing 314 NC18609 "Pacific Clipper" (Captain Robert Ford). After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour the Clipper was ordered to return to the USA avoiding hostile areas, and so left Auckland on 15 December for Noumea, Gladstone (Australia) and Darwin. From there the Boeing continued to Surabaya (Netherlands East Indies) and Trincomalee, Ceylon. It left Ceylon on 24 December, only to be forced to return by engine trouble but was able to take off again for Karachi on the 26th."Pacific Clipper" flew on to Leopoldville in the Belgian Congo via Oman, Bahrain and Khartoum. The South Atlantic was crossed after a 23hour flight to Belem, Brazil, from whence the Boeing continued to Trinidad and on 8 January alighted at the Pan American Marine Terminal, La Guardia Airport, New York after a journey of 34,000 miles in 22 days. Mail has been seen postmarked in New Zealand from 5 to 14 December endorsed 'Per Clipper' but it has not been confirmed that this mail was carried on the "Pacific Clipper" flight. This flight was the first occasion on which a commercial aircraft had circumnavigated the world.
Auckland-New York (possibly "Pacific Clipper")
1942, 7 May
MAGENTA BAY, NEW CALEDONIA- AUCKLAND FLIGHT BY US. NAVY
Consolidated PB2Y-2 Coronado flying boat. This aircraft probably carried the US South Pacific Commander, Vice-Admiral Robt. L Ghormley, U.S. Navy, and senior officials to New Zealand prior to the opening of Naval Command Headquarters in Auckland on 8 May. The US. Naval P.O. opened there on 15 July 1942. These flights continued regularly and mails were carried.1942, 2-3 September
SYDNEY-AUCKLAND SURVEY FLIGHT
By Pan American Airways on behalf of US. Naval Air Transport Service using a Martin PBM-3 Mariner flying boat "Philippine Clipper", commanded by Captain John H. Tilton. A few of the covers carried "by courtesy" were posted at ENMORE NSW 25E 42 and again on arrival at Auckland, where they were postmarked AUCKLAND 3 SEPT 42 while another has only the Auckland postmark. This flight was part of a survey undertaken for NATS from Hawaii-Palmyra-Canton Is.-Wallis Is.-Fiji-Noumea-Australia-N.Z. and although four PAA Captains were aboard the Martin, it is understood the Australia-N.Z. flight was commanded by Captain Tilton. This service to Auckland commenced in September 1942 and ceased early in 1946.1942, 6 September
PLAINE DES GAIACS, NEW CALEDONIA-AUCKLAND
Inaugural flight by South Pacific Combat Air Transport Service (SCATS). Forward Headquarters for the South Pacific Command was established at the Plaine des Gaiacs, 180 miles from Noumea, and an airfield was constructed during June and July. SCATS began a regular service to Auckland in September carrying US Forces mail in each direction. In November 1942 arrangements were made for NZ Forces mail to be carried on this service.1942, 20 October
WHENUAPAI-TONTOUTA, NEW CALEDONIA
US Naval Air Transport Service (NATS) inaugurated a daily Douglas R4D Skytrain service carrying US Services mail which was handled through US. Naval P.O. 132, Auckland. Arrangements were made for N.Z. Forces mail to be flown on this service.Internal
Flight: 1942, 21 Dec.
1942, 24 December
FIRST REGULAR FLIGHT
Whenuapai-Norfolk Island and return. Although the airfield on Norfolk Is. was still under construction there are definite reports of flights to and from the island by a RNZAF aircraft. Small mails were carried in each direction with mail from Norfolk Is. bearing the APO markings.1942, 25 December
WHENUAPAI-NORFOLK ISLAND AND RETURN
Flight by RNZAF Lockheed Hudson carrying a small mail for the N.Z. contingent stationed on the island. Mail was also carried on the return flight to RNZAF Station, Whenuapai but few covers exist.Internal
Flights: 1943, 5 Feb. / 1943, 9 Feb. / 1943, 11 Feb.
1943, 13 April
ARMED FORCES SERVICE
Auckland-Norfolk Island-New Caledonia-New Hebrides-Fiji-Norfolk Island-Auckland with a Douglas C-47 Dakota carrying mail and supplies to N.Z. Forces in the Pacific. Identification of covers is extremely difficult.1943, 13 April
WHENUAPAI-NORFOLK IS.-NEW CALEDONIA-ESPIRITU SANTO & RETURN
Survey flight by RNZAF Douglas C-47 Dakota (Squadron Leader FJ. Lucas) carrying 11 passengers and probably mail. The C-47 left Whenuapai at 6.15am on 13 April and returned at 3.15pm the following day.1943, 27 May
WHENUAPAI-NANDI AND RETURN
First flight by RNZAF Douglas C-47 Dakota NZ3501 (Sqn. Ldr. F.J. Lucas). After arriving at Nandi Sqn. Ldr. Lucas took part in a search for a suspected enemy submarine before returning to Whenuapai on 14 June.1943, 31 May
N.Z.-PACIFIC ISLANDS INAUGURAL FLIGHT "ISLANDS MAIL SERVICE"
(Later Schedule 4) by Lockheed Hudson NZ2022 of No 1 Bomber Reconnaissance Squadron, RNZAF (Flying Officer John Coom). After approaches by the N.Z. Post and Telegraph Department on 26 April, the RNZAF agreed to commence the service on the 31 May with No 1 BR Squadron (later flown by No 2 Squadron) pending the formation of No 40 (Transport) Squadron. The route was Whenuapai-Norfolk Is.(NZEF APO 400, RNZAF APO 350)-Tontouta (NZEF APO 150)-Espiritu Santo (RNZAF APO 246, 361) and mail for Guadalcanal (RNZAF APO 351, 366)-Nausori (NZEF APO 250 and RNZAF APO 311, 315, 351, 381) and mail for Tonga (NZEF APO 200)-Norfolk Is.-Whenuapai. It is known that 19 bags of mail were flown from New Zealand to New Caledonia but no records are available of other quantities. On 5 June Hudson NZ2083 (Flying Officer J.N.E. Thomas) left Whenuapai on the second flight of the service.
1943, 11-19 June
VISIT OF RAF AVRO LANCASTER ED930 "QUEENIE VI"
(Flight lieutenant P.S. Isaacson). On board as a passenger was Lord Burghley, representing the British Government. The Lancaster left the U.K. on 22 May and flew via the Atlantic, Canada, the USA, the Pacific and Australia in seven stages. The final stage was from Melbourne to Auckland on 11 June. It is reported that mail was flown across the Tasman but no special markings were applied. Leaflets in support of the Third Liberty Loan were dropped over a number of New Zealand cities. They could be redeemed for a Bond worth one pound. The Lancaster made a direct Auckland-Melbourne flight on 19 June, 1943.1943, 27 July
NEW ZEALAND-NORFOLK ISLAND AND RETURN
First flight by C-60 Lodestar NZ3507 (Flying Officer W.B. Pettet) The aircraft took off on the 26th but was forced to turn back by bad weather. The Lodestar left again the following morning. At this time NZEF APO 400 and RNZAF APO 350 were in use.1943,28 October
THE ISLANDS MAIL SERVICE
Schedule operated by the RNZAF was extended northward to Guadalcanal and included mails to New Georgia. However the leg to Nausori in Fiji was deleted because of the small volume of mail. The recognised service commenced with a Lockheed C-60 Lodestar (Flight Lieut. Prior) of No 41 (Transport) Squadron, RNZAF. Mail from Guadalcanal bore NZAPO 250 or RNZAF APO 566 (datestamp C) and New Georgia mail was struck with RNZAF APO 308 (datestamp D).1943, 1 November
THE RNZAF EXTENDED THE PACIFIC ARMED FORCES AIR SERVICE
To include New Georgia in the Solomon Islands.1943, 4 November
WHENUAPAI-NORFOLK IS.-TONTOUTA, NEW CALEDONIA-ESPIRITU SANTO-GUADALCANAL-ONDONGA, NEW GEORGIA AND RETURN
Inaugurated by Lockheed C-60 Lodestar commanded by Flight lieutenant Prior. This extended the RNZAF service to New Georgia (RNZAF APO 308 datestamp D).1943, 15 December
WHENUAPAI-NAUSORI, FIJI AND RETURN
Weekly service each Tuesday by Douglas C-47 Dakota of No 40 (Transport) Squadron RNZAF carrying mail, freight and personnel. Mail from Fiji bore one of these markings - NZEF APO 250, RNZAF APO 311 or RNZAF APO 381 (datestamp A).1943, 22 December
WHENUAPAI-NORFOLK IS.-TONTOUTA, NEW CALEDONIA AND RETURN
Service commenced by Lockheed C-60 Lodestar (Flying Officer Bartley). Freight, mail, and personnel were flown to and from New Caledonia. (NZEF APO 150, APO 450, RNZAF APO 256)New Zealand-Norfolk Is.-New Caledonia & vice versa
Internal
Flights: 1944, 2 Mar. / 1944, 7-10 Mar.
1944, March
NEW CALEDONIA-NEW ZEALAND AND VICE VERSA
Service opened by South Pacific Combat Air Transport Service (SCATS) by US Army Air Force. Mail and supplies were flown between the US Forces in New Caledonia and New Zealand. Mail into New Zealand from New Caledonia averaged about 4000-5000 pounds monthly but decreased as the 3rd and 2nd Marines were withdrawn. It increased again when the 25th Infantry Division arrived to reach a peak of 9500lbs in January, 1944. When the division was withdrawn mail volumes declined. The mails from New Zealand to New Caledonia were usually only 200-400lbs.1944, 9 June
RNZAF ARMED FORCES MAIL SERVICE
Was commenced from RNZAF Station. Whenuapai to N.Z. Forces stationed in Fiji and Western Samoa. Covers are difficult to identify.1944, 24 August
NEW ZEALAND-GIBRALTAR
Inauguration of civilian lettercard service.Temuka (NZ)-Gibraltar
(click to enlarge)
1944, 14 November
AUCKLAND-MONTREAL FLIGHT
By Consolidated RY-3 Liberator AL504 "Commando" of RAF Transport Command. Mail was carried from RNZAF Station, Whenuapai for NZ servicemen in Montreal. No special markings were applied and few covers are known.1944, 24 November
NEW ZEALAND-COOK ISLANDS AND VICE VERSA
Returning to New Zealand on 26 November by RNZAF Lockheed Lodestar (Wing Commander LF.P. Taylor), Covers noted datestamped 20 to 23 November and backstamped at Rarotonga on the 24th.1944, 10 December
NEW ZEALAND-GREEN ISLAND (NISSAN)
Flights by Lockheed Hudson NZ2075 (Warrant Officer L. Bary). Supplies and mail were carried to the RNZAF contingent and returning mail was struck with the RNZAF APO 348 and the H. datestamp. Further direct flights were as follows.28.1.45
NZ2045 Lockheed Hudson (Flight Lieut Steel)
NZ2027 Lockheed Hudson (Flight Lieut Rowe)
NZ3511 Lodestar (Flight Lieut Lawson)
10.2.45
NZ3507 Lodestar (Flight Lieut Steel)
13.3.45
NZ3515 Lodestar (Flying Officer R. Cargill)
Internal
Flights: 1945, 24-28 Jan. /1945, 22-23 Feb. / 1945, 26-28 Mar. /
1945, 26-28 Mar. / 1945, 14 Apr.
1945, 23-27 April
U.K.-OHAKEA BRITISH OVERSEAS AIRWAYS (BOAC) Lancastrian G-AGLF
Commanded by Captain R.G. Buck on a proving flight left Hum on 23 April and landed at Ohakea on the 27th in a flying time of 60 hours. A few covers, two of which were posted at Palmerston North after arrival, were carried unofficially.1945, 17 July
NEW ZEALAND-SOLOMON ISLANDS MAIL SERVICE
(Revised Schedule 1) commenced by Douglas C-47 Dakota NZ3540 of No 41 (Transport) Squadron (Flight Lieut C.P. Towsey). Flights left Whenuapai on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday and flew via Espiritu Santo (APO 361)-Guadalcanal (APO 366)-Espiritu Santo-Whenuapai. This service ceased about November, 1945.1945, 5 August
NEW ZEALAND-SOLOMON ISLANDS AND RETURN
Inaugural Mail Service flight by Douglas C-47 Dakota NZ3536 (Flight Lieut D.W. Lockhart). When the RNZAF Base was moved forward from Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides to Bougainville in the Solomon Islands, Schedule 7 was replaced by Schedule 7A and the flights left Whenuapai each Tuesday and Sunday. The route was via Espiritu Santo (APO 361)-Bougainville (APO 308)-Espiritu Santo-Guadalcanal (APO 366)-Espiritu Santo-Whenuapai.Internal
Flights: 1945, 5 Aug. / 1945, 20 Aug.
1945, 4 September
SPECIAL FLIGHTS BY RNZAF C-47 DAKOTAS
To evacuate New Zealand prisoners of war from Singapore to New Zealand. On 4 September two C-47 Dakotas, NZ3536 (Flight Lieut Mounsey) and NZ3540 (Flight Lieut Spicer) left Whenuapai for Singapore followed by these further flights.6 Sept: NZ3555 Flight Lieut R.T. Marceau
8 Sept: Not known Flight Lieut D.M. Lockhart
15 Sept: NZ3552 Flight Lieut Keller
16 Sept: NZ3553 Squadron Ldr. Peterson
18 Sept: NZ3537 Squadron Ldr. Dignam
21 Sept: NZ3541 Flight Lieut Miller
23 Sept: NZ3555 Flight Lieut Moyle
24 Sept: NZ3543 Flight Lieut Bade
27 Sept: NZ3558 Flight Lieut Duthie
30 Sept: NZ3537 Flight Lieut Register
The first return flights left Singapore on 15,16, and 17 September and the final flight departed on 17 October. 156 New Zealanders and 2 Australians were evacuated by this service. Mail was flown to Singapore on these flights and probably on the returning aircraft.
1946, 13 February
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
By RNZAF Catalina flying boat. Small mails were carried.1946, 6-28 March
NEW ZEALAND-JAPAN SURVEY FLIGHT
By Douglas C-47 Dakota NZ3546 (Wing Commander L.H. Parry) of No 41 Squadron. RNZAF, The flight was made as a preliminary of a regular service to the occupation force in Japan. The route was Whenuapai-Norfolk Is.-Brisbane-Cloncurry-Darwin- Morotai-Manila-Okinawa-Iwakuni. The Dakota left Whenuapai on 6 March and arrived back there on the 28th. Mail was carried and a small quantity of covers were hand datestamped WELLINGTON C.1 1 MARCH 46 and backstamped in Japan -NZ APO 222 17.3.46.1.1946, 6-11 March
LONDON-OHAKEA AND RETURN
Avro Lancastrian C.MkII VM726 of No 24 Squadron, RA.F. Transport Command (Squadron Leader U. Adams) undertook a proving flight from the U.K. to N.Z. and landed at Ohakea on 9 March. It carried a few unofficial covers which were posted at the Chief Post Office, Palmerston North on the same day. Some covers carried on the return flight were posted at Palmerston North on the 10 and 11 March and again in London on 12 and 14 March. Very few covers flown.Internal
Flights: 1946, 16 Mar. / 1946, 28 Mar.
1946, 1 April
N.Z.-NORFOLK ISLAND AND PACIFIC ISLANDS
Civilian service inaugurated by the RNZAF linking Auckland-Norfolk Is-Tonga-Western Samoa by a return weekly service and Auckland-Aitutaki-Rarotonga by a return fortnightly service. The N.Z. terminal was RNZAF Station, Whenuapai. It is believed small mails may have been carried but no covers have been examined.Auckland-Norfolk Is.-Tonga-Western Samoa & return
Auckland-Aitutaki-Rarotonga & return
1946, 1-2 May
CAMPBELL ISLAND-BLUFF-WELLINGTON
Return flight by RNZAF Catalina flying boat Public Works Department staff engaged in construction work at the sub-Antarctic meteorological base were flown to Campbell Island. Three letters were handed to the crew of the Catalina, but instead of being posted they were delivered by hand to the addressee by members of the PWD Wellington staff after being endorsed with the flight details. They also bear a backstamp reading "Wellington, Public Works Department 2 May, 1946". The Catalina left Campbell Island for Bluff on the 1 May where it arrived at 3.25pm. It left Bluff at 12.45pm on 2 May and arrived in Wellington at 4.00pm.1946, 30 May
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
Flight by RNZAF Sunderland flying boat NZ4103 "Mataatua" from Evans Bay, Wellington to Te Whanga Lagoon on behalf of the N.Z. Government Department of Island Affairs. Passengers and mail were carried in each direction.1946, 6-7 June
AUCKLAND-FIJI AND RETURN FLIGHT BY RNZAF
Sunderland flying boat NZ4102 "Tokomaru" to Lauthala Bay returning to Auckland on the following day. Mails and passengers were carried on each flight.1946, 6 June
SAN FRANCISCO-AUCKLAND PAN AMERICAN AIRWAYS
Inaugurated its Douglas DC-4 Trans Pacific service. The aircraft was Douglas DC.4 N88886 "Clipper Mandarin" (Captain J.E. Anderson)San Francisco-Honolulu-Canton Island-Nandi-Auckland & vice versa
1946, 17 July
SOUTHAMPTON-AUCKLAND DELIVERY FLIGHT
Of the Tasman Empire Airways Ltd Short S.25 Sandringham Mk.4 flying boat, ZK-AMB "Tasman" which was flown to Sydney by Senior Captain B. Travers of BOAC, At Sydney Captain A.V. Jury took command and completed the flight to Auckland. It is believed that a small number of covers were flown unofficially.1946, 21-24 August
VISIT OF THE AVRO LANCASTER PD328 "Aries"
(Squadron Leader J.E. Aldridge) of the Empire Air Navigation School, RAF Shawbury, on a long distance navigational exercise. The visit was also treated as a "Goodwill Flight" as the U.K. Minister of Food had written a letter of gratitude to the Prime Minister of New Zealand thanking him for support in the "Food For Britain" campaign. This letter was reprinted in the form of a leaflet, copies of which were dropped from the Lancaster over several cities. "Aries" made the flight from the U.K. to N.Z. in 59 hours 51 minutes. The modified Lancaster flew over Wellington before landing at RNZAF on Ohakea.1946, 25 August
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY - TASMAN EMPIRE AIRWAYS
Introduced the Short S.25 Sandringham Mk.4 flying boat ZK-AMD "Australia" on the Trans Tasman service under the command of Captain A.V. Jury with First Officer J.H. McGrane.Internal
Flights: 1946, 2-3 Sept. / 1946, 2 Sept. / 1946, 4 Sept.
1946, 11 September
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND RETURN
First service flight of the Tasman Empire Airways Short S25 Sandringham 4 flying boat ZK-AME "New Zealand" commanded by Captain J.R. McGrane with First Officer P.J. La Couteur.1946, 29 October
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
Special flight by RNZAF Sunderland flying boat NZ4103 from Evans Bay to Te Whanga Lagoon with passengers and mail. The return flight was made the same day.Internal
Flights: 1946, 2 Dec.
1946, 16 December
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND RETURN
Tasman Empire Airways Ltd introduced its fourth and last Short 5.25 Sandringham flying boat ZK-AMH "Auckland" (Captain PJ. La Couteur, First Officer F.D. Bethwaite) to the trans-Tasman route.1946,18 December
SYDNEY-AUCKLAND
RAAF Mosquito A52-101 (Flight lieutenant LP. Bond, pilot and Flight lieutenant L.C. Lobb, navigator) in a record time for a trans Tasman flight of 3 hours 45 minutes. 12 covers were flown unofficially, postmarked at Auckland F.M.B. 19 DEC 46 11.30. and signed by pilot and navigator.Internal
Flights: 1947, 20 Jan. / 1947, 22 Jan.
1947, 2 February
THE AUCKLAND-NORFOLK ISLAND-TONGA
Service of N.Z. NAC was extended to Noumea, New Caledonia and Papeete, Tahiti.1947, 12 March
INTERRUPTED FLIGHT NEW ZEALAND-JAPAN
A Douglas C-47 Dakota of No 41 (Transport) Squadron RNZAF carrying freight and mail to the N.Z. Jayforce made a forced landing at Sourabaya, Java, without permission. The Indonesian authorities detained the aircraft for three days before allowing it to proceed to Japan. No distinctive markings were applied to the mail.1947, 25 April-3 May
AUCKLAND-VANCOUVER-AUCKLAND
British Commonwealth Pacific Airlines (BCPA) inaugurated its trans Pacific service on 25 April, when Douglas DC-4 VH-AND "Tatana" (Captain P.C. Taylor) chartered from Australian National Airways left Whenuapai at 9.15am with 31 passengers and mail. BCPA produced special covers, which were carried together with some privately printed but no cachets were applied. The return flight of the fortnightly service took place on 2 May when the chartered DC-4 VH-ANA "Amana" left Vancouver for Auckland where it arrived on the 3rd.25 April: Auckland-Canton Island-Honolulu-Vancouver & return (2 May)
(click to enlarge)
Internal
Flights: 1947, 3-6 May / 1947, 10 May / 1947, 2
June
1947, 14 July
AVRO YORKC.1 MW101 OF RAF TRANSPORT COMMAND
Brought Field Marshall The Viscount Montgomery on a visit to Australia and New Zealand. At least 3 covers are known to have been flown unofficially to N.Z. They were posted MASCOT JLY 47 in Australia and backstamped upon arrival in NZ at OHAKEA AIR FORCE. After being back to Australia in the York, the covers were backstamped MASCOT AERODROME. The entire crew of the York signed the covers.1947, 20 July
AUCKLAND-WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS
Emergency flight by RNZAF Catalina flying boat to bring the seriously ill resident Doctor D.J. Patterson to Wellington, The aircraft left Evans Bay, Wellington on 20 July with the relieving Medical Officer, Dr Gresson and mail, alighting on Te Whanga Lagoon in the Chathams, Mail was also carried on the return flight.Internal Flights:1947, 3 Aug. / 1947, 1-2 Sept. / 1947, 23-24 Sept. / 1947, 23-26 Sept. / 1947, 25-26 Sept. / 1947, 26-27 Sept. / 1947, 27 Sept. / 1947, 29 Sept. / 1947, 30 Sept. / 1947, 1-2 Oct. / 1947, 1-3 Oct. / 1947, 1-6 Oct.
1947, 9 October
COFFS HARBOUR, NS.W.-AUCKLAND
Harry Newton had flown his Belgian registered Ercoupe 415C-1 OO-EXC "Petit Pegase" from Belgium to Australia. He flew across the Tasman Sea from Coffs Harbour, stopping briefly at Lord Howe Island and reaching Auckland the same day. It is thought that a few unofficial covers were carried.1947, 1 November
AUCKLAND-RAROTONGA-SUVA-LAMBASA-APIA-NUKUALOFA
N.Z. National Airways inaugurated a Pacific Island service by Short Sunderland flying boat ZK-AMG "Mataatua" (Captain RH. Makgill).Auckland-Rarotonga-Suva-Apia-Nukualofa & vice versa
1947, 2 November
AUCKLAND-NORFOLK ISLAND AND RETURN
First NZNAC service by Douglas DC-3 ZK-APB "Popotea" (Captain M.L Pirie).1947, 4-5 November
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND RETURN
Final flights of the Short S-30 Empire flying boat ZKAMA RMA "Aotearoa" after seven and a half years trans Tasman service and flying over one and a quarter million miles. Privately primed covers were carried on the last flights.1947, 13 November
U.K.-N.Z, FLIGHT OF THE ROYAL AIR FORCE Lincolnian RE364 "Aries II"
From the Empire Air Navigation School, Shawbury, Shropshire, with the deputy-commandant of the school, Group Captain E.E. Vielle. Leaflets were dropped over some places in N.Z. An unofficial cover carried from Ohakea to Wigram were postmarked PALMERSTON NORTH 13 NOV 478-PM and signed by seven members of the crew. Covers may also have been carried 'by courtesy' on other stages.1947, 16 November
AUCKLAND-NORFOLK ISLAND-SUVA
(Fiji) -Nukualofa (Tonga) -Faleofa (W. Samoa)-Aitutaki (Cook Is).-Rarotonga and return fortnightly service by NZNAC.1947, 12 December
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS SPECIAL FLIGHT
By RNZAF Catalina flying boat (Flight Lieutenant P.J. Warner) which flew Auckland-Evans Bay, Wellington-Te Whanga Lagoon, Chatham Islands to pick up a sick child. The aircraft returned to Evans Bay with the child. Mail was carried.1947, 21 December
INTERRUPTED FLIGHT JAPAN-NEW ZEALAND
When Douglas C-47 Dakota NZ3558 (Flight Lieut L.K. Burch) experienced engine trouble about 300 miles north of Manila. Flight was maintained on one engine but bad weather and turbulence forced NZ3558 to below 1000 feet. At about 100 miles from Manila some personal baggage and mail was jettisoned. A 'wheels up' landing was made at Dila Longan on the east coast of Luzon in the Philippines about 75 miles north of Manila. Three passengers were injured and all were rescued by a relief aircraft. Four bags of mail and some personal luggage was saved.1948, 23 February
AUCKLAND-SUVA AND RETURN
Special flight by Tasman Empire Airways flying boat.1948, 23 February
TASMAN EMPIRE AIRWAYS LTD.
Withdrew its Short Sandringham Tasman Class flying boats from service after the discovery of engine faults. During the following period until the Sandringhams returned to service TEAL chartered various aircraft to maintain the Trans-Tasman service. Covers were carried but these can usually only be identified by the date of the postmark.24-25 Feb. Douglas DC-4 Skymaster VH-TAA "John Eyre" (Captain J.Chapman) Trans Australia Airlines. Sydney-Auckland & return
25 Feb. Lockheed Constellation VH-EAB "Lawrence Hargrave" (Captain J.V. Ritchie) QANTAS Empire Airways. Sydney-Auckland & return
25-26 Feb. Douglas DC-4 Skymaster (Captain F. Cooper) Trans Australia Airlines. Sydney-Auckland & return
26-27 Feb. Short S-25 Sandringham 3 G-AGJM "Hythe" (Captain H. Reeve) BOAC. Sydney-Auckland & return
20-21 March. Short Sunderland ZK-AMG "Mataatua" (Captain A.T. Henry) NZNAC. Auckland-Sydney & return
23 March. An RNZAF Dakota of No 41 Squadron carried a special mail of about 22,000 pieces. weighing 240 pounds, Auckland-Sydney. This included 59 pounds for Norfolk Is and J Force and 181 pounds for Australia and the U.K.
1948, 17 June
TEAL SHORT S-25 SANDRINGHAM 4 ZK-AMB
(Captain C. Griffiths) resumed the TEAL trans-Tasman service.NOTE: Flights by the BOAC Sandringham G-AGJL "Hobart", the NZNAC Sunderland ZK-AMG "Mataatua" and the TAA Skymaster were also made independently of the TEAL charters.
1948, 1-5 April
DOUGLAS DC-4 N37734 "ATLAS SKYMERCHANT"
(Colonel E.E. Aldrin) arrived at Whenuapai during a world tour to investigate business conditions and promote sales of the products of Atlas Supply Co. of Newark, N. J. It had started on 13 Jan 1948, and was described as a 'Flying Showroom'. A few covers were flown "by courtesy" from Auckland to New York.Internal
Flights: 1948, 5 Apr. / 1948, 8-9 Apr. / 1948, 16 Apr. / 1948, 19
Apr. / 1948, 27 Apr.
1948, 5 May
VANCOUVER-AUCKLAND
First flight by British Commonwealth Pacific Airlines (BCPA) under the full administration of the Airline.1948, 28 May
WHENUAPAI-IWAKUNI, JAPAN
Douglas C-47 Dakota NZ3546 (Wing Commander LH. Parry) No 41 Squadron, RNZAF carried out the final flight of this service to N.Z. Forces in Japan after more than l00 flights by the same aircraft. As well as mail the aircraft carried a spare engine for No 14 Squadron. Mail was also carried on the return flight from Japan to N.Z.Internal
Flights: 1948, 1 June / 1948, 21 July
1948, 4 August
AUSTRALIA-MACQUARIE ISLAND-CHRISTCHURCH-AUSTRALIA
RAAF PBY-SA Catalina amphibian A24-104 (Flight Lieutenant P.E. Delahunty) left Hobart, Tasmania on 4 August, reaching Macquarie Island in the early afternoon. As the Catalina had insufficient fuel to return to Tasmania, it diverted to RNZAF Station, Wigram, Christchurch, where it arrived at l2.45am on 5 August. It left Wigram on 5 August and flew direct to Rathmines, Australia. A few privately printed covers plus a few with the cachets OPERATION SINBAD and RAAF No 11 SQUADRON PT COOK, VICTORIA were carried.Internal
Flights: 1948, 9 Aug. / 1948, 9 Aug.
1948, 10 September
20TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST SUCCESSFUL TRANS TASMAN FLIGHT
By Charles Kingsford Smith in the "Southern Cross". Privately prepared souvenir covers were flown on the TEAL scheduled flight to mark the occasion.Internal
Flights: 1948, 27 Sept. / 1948, 23 Oct. / 1948, 19 Nov. / 1948,
13 Dec. / 1948, 15 Dec. / 1948, 20 Dec. / 1948, 20 Dec.
1949, 1 January
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
By NZNAC Sunderland flying boat which flew from Auckland-Wellington (Evans Bay)-Chatham Is (Te Whanga Lagoon) and return to Evans Bay carrying passengers and mail.1949, 30 January
SEATLE AND PORTLAND, USA-AUCKLAND
Pan American Airways extended its Trans Pacific service to New Zealand (F.A.M. 19) by commencing at Seattle, Washington, calling at Honolulu. Canton Is, Suva and Auckland. Mail from Tacoma was dispatched through Seattle Airfield and is classed equally with Seattle postings. No mail was flown between Seattle and Portland and no mail was carried between Auckland and Suva on the return flight. No special cachets were applied.30 Jan-2 Feb. Seattle-Canton Island
30 Jan-3 Feb. Seattle-Suva / Seattle-Auckland
30 Jan-2 Feb. Portland-Canton Island / Portland-Suva
30 Jan-3 Feb. Portland-Auckland
Internal
Flight: 1949, 18 Mar.
1949, 20 April
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN FLIGHT
By a Catalina flying boat of No 5 Squadron RNZAF (Flight lieutenant G. Hutton) on behalf of the Department of Island Territories, Passengers and mail were carried from Evans Bay. Wellington, to Te Whanga Lagoon in the Chathams, as well as on the return flight the same day.1949, 16 May
AUCKLAND-RAOUL ISLAND
(Kermadec Islands) emergency flight by RNZAF Catalina flying boat to pick up a seriously ill member of the meteorological staff on the island. Mail was flown in each direction.Internal
Flight: 1949, 11 June
1949, 10 July
VANCOUVER-AUCKLAND TRANS-PACIFIC SERVICE
Commenced by Canadian Pacific Airlines (CPA) using the Canadair C-4 CF-CPI, "Empress of Sydney", the route being Vancouver-Honolulu-Canton Island-Suva-Auckland. A large cachet was applied to mail in Vancouver.Internal
Flight: 1949, 16 July
1949, 22 July
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
Flight by Catalina flying boat of No 5 Squadron, RNZAF (Flight Lieutenant D.B. Flintoff). The aircraft flew from Evans Bay, Wellington to Te Whanga Lagoon with passengers and mail. Two injured men, Messrs J.R Kennedy and E.R. Gilsenan of the Public Works Department, were brought back to Wellington for treatment.Internal
Flight: 1949, 11 Aug.
1949, 29 September
SOUTHAMPTON-AUCKLAND DELIVERY FLIGHT
Of Tasman Empire Airways first Short S-45 Solent Mk 4 flying boat ZK-AMM "Ararangi" (Captain C. Griffiths). No official mail was flown but covers may have been carried "by courtesy".1949, 18 October
AUCKLAND-NANDI, FIJI-PAPEETE
The French regional airline TRAPAS (Societe Francaise de Transports Aeriens du Pacific Sud) established connecting flights between Papeete, Tahiti and the British Commonwealth Pacific Airlines service passing through Nandi.Internal
Flight: 1949, 31 Oct.
1949, 14 November
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND VICE VERSA
First service flight of the Tasman Empire Airways Short 5.45 Solent 4 flying boat ZK-AMM "Ararangi" (Captain A.V. Jury).1949, 16 November
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND RETURN
First flight Tasman Empire Airways Short 5.45 Solent 4 ZK-AMN "Awatere" Captain C. Griffiths) on the Trans Tasman service.1949, 7 December
BELFAST-AUCKLAND DELIVERY FLIGHT
Of Tasman Empire Airways Ltd Short S.45 Solent 4 flying boat ZK-AML "Aotearoa II" (Captain LC. Patterson and Captain PJ. Le Couteur). A few covers were carried by courtesy on the flight from the U.K. The trans-Tasman crossing was made in 5 hours 37 minutes.1949, 19 December
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND RETURN
First service by TEAL Short S.45 Solent 4 ZK-AMO "Aranui" (Captain D.W. Keesing).1949, 19 December
SYDNEY-AUCKLAND FINAL SERVICE FLIGHT
By Short S.25 Sandringham ZK-AME "New Zealand" (Captain P.J. Le Couteur, Captain LH. Parry) before being sold to Barrier Reef Airways, Queensland, as VH-BRD.1949, 21 December
AUCKLAND-SYDNEY AND RETURN FLIGHT
By Tasman Empire Airways Short S.45 Solent 4 ZK-AML "Aotearoa II" (Captain J.R. McGrane).Internal
Flights: 1950, 14 Jan. / 1950, 13 Feb. / 1950, 12-13 Apr. / 1950,
12 May / 1950, 15 May / 1950, 16 May
1950, 6 June
AUCKLAND-LAUTHALA BAY-FIJI AND RETURN.
NZNAC had previously operated the "Hibiscus Route" with the Douglas DC-3 on behalf of TEAL, but with the introduction of the Short S.45 Solent flying boats TEAL took over the service.1950, 28 June
COFFS HARBOUR-NORFOLK ISLAND-AUCKLAND
Captain A.J. Bradshaw together with his wife and young son had flown his Percival Proctor 5 G-AHWW "Kiwi Wanderer" from England and had planned to continue his flight to N.Z. The Australian Civil Aviation authorities would only permit him to fly the Tasman alone, so, leaving Coffs Harbour on 28 June he flew to Norfolk Island where he stayed the night and continued to Auckland on the 29th. 12 covers were carried to N.Z. and posted on arrival. These have the 'VISIT SCENIC NEW ZEALAND' slogan postmark and signature of the pilot.1950, 3 October
WELLINGTON-SYDNEY AND RETURN
Tasman Empire Airways service inaugurated from Evans Bay to Rose Bay by Short S.45 Solent flying boat ZK-AMM "Ararangi" (Captain C. Griffiths), Covers postmarked WELLINGTON N.Z. AIR MAIL 3 OC 1950 were backstamped SYDNEY 5.1SPM 3 OCT 1950. A large illustrated cachet was applied to covers at Wellington but no cachet was used on the Sydney-Wellington mail.(click to enlarge)
1950, 1 December
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
By TEAL Short S.45 Solent (Captain C. Griffiths). The aircraft was chartered by the Department of Island Territories to return school children to the Island for the Christmas vacation and to carry mail. It flew as usual from Evans Bay to Te Whanga Lagoon and returned to Evans Bay.1950, 14-20 December
AMSTERDAM-AUCKLAND
flight by K.LM. Royal Dutch Airlines Douglas DC-4 Skymaster PH-TCP "Overloon", bringing Dutch immigrants to New Zealand arrived at Whenuapai on 20 December. The Skymaster also carried mail from Holland including special K.LM. souvenir covers. PH-TCP left on the return flight to Amsterdam on 20 December carrying mail for Holland which including a quantity of return covers.1950, 15 December
WELLINGTON-CHATHAM ISLANDS AND RETURN
By TEAL Short S.45 flying boat ZK-AMM "Ararangi" chartered by the Department of Island Territories to transport children home for the Christmas vacation. "Ararangi" flew from Mechanics Bay, Auckland to Evans Bay, Wellington where mail and passengers were picked up for the Chathams. The return flight was made the same day.Internal
Flight: 1950, 18 Dec.
1950, 18-20 December
SYDNEY-CHRISTCHURCH AND RETURN
Flights for TEAL by QANTAS Lockheed Constellation VH-EAC "Harry Hawker". No cachet was used on the mail from Sydney but a large illustrated cachet was applied to mail at Christchurch on the return flight on the 20th.(click to enlarge)
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