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November 14 2026, a part of Nelson aviation history will return to our skies when a restored Lockheed 10A Electra visits Nelson Airport.
The aircraft, ‘Kuaka’, has undergone a 25-year restoration carried out by owner Rob Mackley, and is one of only two Lockheed Electra aircraft flying in the world today (the other is based in the Czech Republic).
Electras were the only aircraft providing scheduled Nelson services from November 1939 and during World War II, providing air connection to Wellington under the Union Airways umbrella. Tragically, the aircraft was involved in New Zealand’s first fatal accident involving passengers on a scheduled flight when ZK-AFE ‘Kereru’ crashed near the summit of Mt Richmond on a flight from Wellington to Nelson on 7 May 1942. Five occupants were killed, and the event is commemorated on a plaque at Nelson Airport, near the Airport Perimeter Walkway carpark.
The Electra was last seen in Nelson when Trans Island Airways ceased flying scheduled Nelson to Christchurch services in 1959.
The aircraft’s fascinating history has significance internationally too – American aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart’s famous attempt to cross the Pacific in 1937 to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the globe took place in an Electra. Sadly, the aircraft disappeared during the attempt and Earhart’s fate remains a mystery.
During the brief Nelson visit, members of the public are invited to view the aircraft at a designated viewing area at Nelson Airport. Plus, two lucky people will win the opportunity to board the aircraft and enjoy a short flight through a public competition launching today.
Owner Rob Mackley and aviation historian Rev Dr Richard Waugh will be on hand during the event to explain some of the key features and history of the aircraft.
Nelson Airport chief executive officer Brendan Cook says the airport was excited to welcome back the Lockheed Electra. “This aircraft has a fascinating history and association with Nelson. We feel very privileged to play host to the ‘Kuaka’, and I encourage people to come down and make the most of this rare opportunity to see it up close.”
The visit, subject to weather, will enable the aircraft to be visible flying into Nelson Airport about 8.30am. Invited guests, including the competition winners, will then depart on two short flights, before returning to the airport. Public viewing will be possible from about 10.15am to 11.30am, before the ‘Kuaka’ takes flight again for a visit to the Motueka Aerodrome.
More information about the competition will be posted on Nelson Airport’s social media channels.
