Help bring new life to the Bristol Freighter at Founders Heritage Park
The Merchant Buccaneer, one of just four Bristol Freighters left in the country, landed in Nelson on the Wakapuaka mudflats on 20 November 1986. From there it was carefully dismantled and transported to its new home at Nelson’s Founders Heritage Park, where
it has been a favourite attraction for park visitors ever since.
Over time, exposure to the elements has taken its toll on the Merchant Buccaneer and it is now in need of extensive refurbishment. The Friends of Founders Trust has spearheaded an initiative to refurbish the aircraft and are generously funding the majority of the project. The restoration is being led by John Kelly (retired electrical engineer, pilot/instructor) and Roy West (retired pilot), along with a dedicated team of volunteers.
The team has generously donated their time, expertise, and workshop premises over the past nine months to refurbish the distinctive aircraft. The engine cowlings have been removed, stripped of their covering, recovered, painted, and then refitted to the aircraft.
The rudder fin was taken to an off-site workshop where its material surface was removed, the remaining section treated for corrosion, and it was prepared for painting. The rudder fin is now at the stage of being reskinned and the complete exterior of the aircraft has been prepared for painting. We’re now seeking additional funds needed to complete the final stages of the project, which includes painting the exterior.
The Merchant Buccaneer has a storied history. It was the last Bristol Freighter to fly in Straits Air Freight Express (SAFE) colours, and began its career in 1953 with the Pakistan Air Force before being purchased by SAFE in 1966 and flown to New Zealand to support airmail and interisland freight contracts. Over its 33 years of service, it logged 21,315 flight hours and completed 25,983 landings.
If you would like to contribute to the restoration of this remarkable piece of aviation history and help us preserved for future generations to enjoy, please see below account details. If you would like further information on how you can be involved, please email ari.edgecombe@ncc.govt.nz .
Account Name: Bristol Freighter
Acc Number: 030703 0325055 00 Ref: Name
Founders Heritage Park would like to thank Friends of Founders for their generous funding, John Kelly and Roy West who have kindly donated their time, expertise, and workshop premises and Cartel Works LTD, PPG and Advanced Access Solutions for their sponsorship of labour, materials and supply of equipment.
ENDS
