WWII Mosquito Restoration: New Zealand’s Ferrymead Aeronautical Society Project

The painstaking restoration of a combat-veteran de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito, a legendary aircraft of the Second World War, is underway in New Zealand. Inside the Ferrymead Heritage Park in Christchurch, the Ferrymead Aeronautical Society is meticulously combining two historic airframes to create a static display – one of only 34 surviving Mosquitos globally, and a significant addition to one of New Zealand’s largest living history attractions.

The project centers around two Mosquito FB.VI fighter-bomber variants, each with a unique story tied to the conflict and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). The restoration isn’t simply assembly; it’s a complex undertaking of preservation and reconstruction, drawing on surviving components and newly fabricated parts, and benefiting from a network of international collaboration among aviation heritage groups.

A Legacy of Bravery: RNZAF Mosquito Squadrons in WWII

The de Havilland Mosquito earned a formidable reputation during World War II for its speed, versatility, and innovative construction – largely built from wood. New Zealand airmen played a crucial role in the aircraft’s operational history. In 1943, No. 487 and No. 488 Squadrons of the RNZAF, stationed in England, transitioned to the Mosquito. No. 487 Squadron gained renown for its daring participation in Operation Jericho, a raid on Amiens prison to liberate French prisoners slated for execution by the Gestapo. They also conducted low-level attacks on Gestapo headquarters in Denmark, destroying vital intelligence that threatened resistance networks. Meanwhile, No. 488 Squadron operated as night fighters, defending Britain from Luftwaffe raids and later undertaking intruder missions over occupied Europe.

The Mosquito’s effectiveness stemmed from its ability to perform a wide range of roles – bomber, fighter, reconnaissance, and night fighter – a testament to its adaptable design. The aircraft’s wooden construction, while unconventional, offered advantages in terms of weight and manufacturing speed, allowing for rapid production during wartime.

The Two Airframes: HR339 and TE758

The current restoration project at Ferrymead relies on components from two specific aircraft. The first, HR339, was constructed in 1944 and assigned to No. 487 Squadron in November of that year. It flew 31 combat missions before sustaining significant damage in February 1945 during Operation Clarion, a raid targeting German transport infrastructure. Anti-aircraft fire struck the aircraft, damaging the nose and tailplane, forcing the crew, Flight Lieutenant Rowland John ‘Jack’ Dempsey and Flight Sergeant Edward John ‘Ted’ Paige, to develop a harrowing return to base. Remarkably, footage of the damaged aircraft and its crew was captured by Australian cameraman Frank Bagnall and is preserved in the collections of the Australian War Memorial. View the footage here.

The second airframe, TE758, was built in mid-1945 and never saw active combat. It was allocated to the RNZAF in 1947 and flown to New Zealand as part of a larger order of 85 Mosquitos. TE758 served with No. 75 Squadron, often as the commanding officer’s aircraft, until being retired in 1952. A less dramatic, but equally revealing, chapter in its history involved a landing gear door failure during flight in November 1950, which was subsequently repaired.

From Farms to the Workshop: A History of Salvage

Following the war, many RNZAF Mosquitos were scrapped or sold off. Both HR339 and TE758 experienced a period of neglect before being rescued by the Ferrymead Aeronautical Society. HR339 ended up on a farm in Pigeon Bay, cut into pieces, while TE758 was used as a chicken coop on a farm near Oamaru. In 1972, the Society acquired the remains of both aircraft, initiating a decades-long restoration effort.

The challenge was significant. Neither airframe was complete, and engines were missing. However, the Society managed to acquire a pair of Rolls Royce Merlin XXV engines, originally intended for a powerboat, and has benefited from the expertise of volunteers and collaboration with other restoration projects worldwide. Glyn Powell, known for his work restoring other airworthy Mosquitos, assisted with constructing a new tailplane for the Ferrymead project.

Current Restoration Progress and International Collaboration

Currently, the restoration focuses on the fuselage of TE758, which has been reskinned and is undergoing painting. The wings of HR339 are also being meticulously rebuilt, with replacement wood panels being applied. The Merlin engines are being reassembled, and other metal components are undergoing restoration. The Ferrymead Aeronautical Society emphasizes preserving as much original material as possible while utilizing new parts where necessary.

A key aspect of the project’s success is the collaborative spirit within the aviation heritage community. The Society actively exchanges parts and knowledge with organizations like the de Havilland Aircraft Museum in London Colney and the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, fostering a shared commitment to preserving these historic aircraft. Learn more about the de Havilland Aircraft Museum.

The Significance of Static Display and Preserving History

While several Mosquitos have been restored to flying condition, the Ferrymead project aims for a static display. This approach allows for a more detailed and comprehensive restoration, focusing on historical accuracy and preservation rather than the demands of flightworthiness. The completed Mosquito will become a centerpiece of the Ferrymead Heritage Park, offering visitors a tangible connection to New Zealand’s aviation history and the sacrifices made during World War II.

The restoration is more than just a technical feat; it’s a tribute to the airmen who flew these aircraft and a commitment to preserving a vital part of New Zealand’s heritage. The Ferrymead Aeronautical Society’s dedication ensures that the legacy of the Mosquito and the RNZAF squadrons who operated it will continue to inspire future generations. Updates on the project can be found on the project’s Facebook page: DH Mosquito HR339 Restoration – Ferrymead, Christchurch.

The project’s ongoing nature means further developments are expected in the coming months and years. The Society continues to seek volunteers and donations to support their work, highlighting the community-driven aspect of this remarkable restoration. The ultimate goal is to create a lasting memorial to the Mosquito and the brave airmen who flew it, ensuring its story is told for years to come. Visit the Ferrymead Aeronautical Society website for more information.