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Housed in a pair
of hangers is probably one of the most
interesting and unusual aviation collections
in the world. The collection is owned by
renowned film maker Peter Jackson and is on
a long term loan to the museum.
The 14-18 Aviation
Heritage Trust, which runs the museum, was
founded by a small group of aviation
enthusiast, with Peter Jackson currently the
trust's chairman.
The collection is very focused, just aircraft and
memorabilia associated with World War One. The
aircraft comprise fully airworthy examples, which
are flown at airshows around NZ, and non-airworthy
replicas displayed in the most amazingly life-like
dioramas. The considerable skills of Peter Jackson's
Weta Workshops were applied to bring these scenes to
life. A number of the figures' faces were cast off
Weta Workshop staff, giving the men an incredibly
life-like look!
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As well as the
aircraft there is an extensive collection of
artifacts, uniforms, medals and other items.
These include insignia
cut from the famous Red Baron triplane, along with
the Pour Le Merite – the Blue Max medal – and other
unique items that only someone of Jackson’s
resources could acquire.
All the above may sound
as though this museum is for aviation die-hards only
but in fact the presentation and life-like scenes
are so enthralling that it will appeal to boys and
girls of all ages! A world class museum. |
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