New r.n.z.a.f. 'copters over nelson

Two of the Bell Iroquois helicopters purchased by the Government for the R. N. Z. A. F. made their 'first visit to Nelson last month. One machine, piloted by Pilot Officer Ken Wells, an old boy of Waimea College, landed on the top field at Nelson College before flying on to the airport. Hundreds of schoolchildren from the Hampden Street School and from the college got a good view of the chopper as it came in to land, and some interesting information about it was broadcast to them over a loud hailer.

"Look, there it is".

The machine was soon surrounded by college boys.

A side view of the copter which can carry 13.

Ken, with members of his family, in front of his chopper. From left: Chris and Janet Wells, Mrs Alice Wells, Ian Bensemann and Peter Wells.

Janet tries on big bruv's helmet for size.

Aircraft captains, Squadron Leader G. C. Hubbard and FIt Lieut M. Robinson (Royal Australian Air Force) find that they and John Reid, of Helicopters Ltd, have things in common.

The view of the pilots through the front of the 'copter as it approaches Nelson airport.

Previous article Issue contents Next article

The Nelson Photo News

No 73 : November 12, 1966

New r.n.z.a.f. 'copters over nelson