Video file
The first aerial topdressing trials were made at Ōhakea in 1948. A New Zealand Air Force Avenger torpedo bomber was fitted with a reserve petrol tank modified to carry and release fertiliser. Trays were laid on the ground to measure the rate and spread of the fertiliser. Conclusions were so encouraging that further trials were planned – and the aerial topdressing industry was born.
Using this item
Archives New Zealand - Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Reference: Weekly Review 370. National Film Unit, 1948
Permission of Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga must be obtained before any re-use of this material.