Prince Philip's first airplane still flying in the Wairaarpa
Every pilot has a special attachment to their first aircraft and that was no doubt the case with the Duke of Edinburgh.
Prince Philip, who died on Friday aged 99, first earned his wings in a de Havilland Chipmunk two-seater that still frequently takes to the air over Wairarapa.
It's current owner, Masterton pilot Bevan Dewes, 27, was a similar age to the duke when the then 30-year-old embarked on his training with the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1952.
The Chipmunk, now housed in a hangar at Hood Aerodrome, proudly bears the royal insignia and Dewes has pulled together a fascinating dossier of its former life, including letters from the prince.
Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!
Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?
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79.2% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
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20.8% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
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Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
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