A history of civil aviation in New Zealand / Maurice E. McGreal.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 266-271 ) and index.

From the first attempts at powered flight, innovative and adventurous New Zealanders have been among the pioneers of aviation. While many of their individual stories have been well-documented, less has been written about the building of this early enthusiasm into an industry that has had an enormous impact on New Zealand's economic, social and political development. A History of Civil Aviation in New Zealand discusses many facets of aviation's fascinating story, from early efforts in home-built aircraft, through the years of flying schools and aero clubs, the impact of two world wars, and the development of machines with ever greater range, capacity and performance. It also examines the relationships between those who flew and those who regulated the pilots and airlines, and how these relationships balanced national interest and the need for safety with the building of a high-stakes industry. The main narrative covers the period from 1912 to 1992, when the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand was formed. Interwoven with the discussion of regulation and policies are tales of success and failure, power and personalities - the pioneers and politicians, civil servants, entrepreneurs and airmen and women who played significant roles in shaping New Zealand's aviation story.