Explore the gripping tale of 'The Nation Waited - The First Attempt to Fly the Tasman Sea' by Bill Conroy. This meticulously researched book delves into the historic attempt to cross the Tasman Sea in 1928, a period marked by pioneering aviation efforts. Join New Zealand pilots John 'Scotty' Moncrieff and George Hood as they embark on this ambitious journey, driven by patriotism and the desire for a closer British Empire. With fascinating insights into the planning and execution, this book also addresses the mysterious disappearance of their aircraft, Aotearoa, which remains one of Australasia's most enduring aviation enigmas. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone captivated by tales of adventure and exploration. The dimensions of this paperback edition are 170 x 240 mm, featuring a total of 176 captivating pages, all published by Wairarapa Archive. Delivered swiftly from New Zealand, enjoy combined shipping to make your purchase seamless. Smartfox NZ takes pride in providing local stock to ensure a hassle-free experience with no unexpected import charges, custom duties, or tax. Discover the essence of early aviation history and take a piece of this incredible story home today!

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 176
Bind: paperback
Author: Bill Conroy Publisher: Wairarapa Archive
Publication Date: 22-02-2019

In early 1928, during a time of pioneering, long-distance flights, two New Zealand pilots set off from Australia on the first attempted aerial crossing of the wild Tasman Sea. Amid fervent hope, government interference, a spirit of patriotism, wide newspaper coverage and family pride, John ‘Scotty’ Moncrieff and George Hood, along with their non-flying partner Ivan Kight, dreamed of closer British Empire ties, a safer New Zealand and a shot at aviation glory. The disappearance of their aircraft Aotearoa remains one of Australasia’s great flying mysteries. Bill Conroy has researched this fascinating and tragic story for more than three decades. In the first full-length examination of Moncrieff and Hood’s flight, he recounts the conception, planning, execution and aftermath of the project which enthralled both sides of the Tasman.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.