The Return of Gloster Grebe NZ501

Project backers Stephen Carruthers, Mike Marra and Anthony Galbraith will outline plans to recreate one of the most significant aircraft in New Zealand's military aviation history.

Back in 1926 Sir Henry Wigram contributed £2500 to encourage the New Zealand Government to take aviation seriously. That donation resulted in the purchase of three Grebes for the defence of New Zealand.

NZ501 was the first to arrive at Wigram in February 1928, and it was the most advanced aircraft in the land back then.

One Grebe was destroyed in an accident in 1932, and the last two Grebes were retired in 1938, becoming instructional airframes. They were broken up in 1943.

A group here in NZ has taken up the challenge to bring back NZ501. We have access to some drawings, a 1/10 scale model, and an original engine. We have determined that it is not a case of if but when NZ501 will be built, and we want you to be part of this project.

To donate to the project or learn more, visit www.glostergrebe.nz