Memorial Wall Honors Aviators at Wanaka Airport

A new memorial wall honoring aviators will be unveiled at Wanaka Airport, recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of at least 30 pilots and aviation professionals. This initiative aims to commemorate individuals ranging from World War 2 veterans to young helicopter pilots whose legacies continue to resonate within the community.

Ian Brodie, former commentator for Warbirds over Wanaka and current museum director, emphasized the importance of remembering those who have been lost. “From World War 2 veterans to senior conservation workers and young helicopter pilots — all of whose losses are still deeply felt in the community,” he stated.

The memorial wall will be located in front of the Crosswinds Cafe at Wanaka Airport. It will feature name plaques along with QR codes that link to short biographies and a memorial book available on the Wanaka Airport website. The circular structure has been designed and constructed by a local stonemason, with funding provided by Queenstown Airport Corporation on behalf of Wanaka Airport. The concept for the memorial originated from former Wanaka Airport manager Ralph Fegan.

Jools Hall, founder of Skydive Lake Wanaka and widow of one of the individuals commemorated, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. “These are stories of amazing aviators. I feel really pleased that it is going to be a permanent reminder for the aviators at Wanaka Airport,” she remarked. Hall noted that the airport has been the site of both tragedies and incredible stories from those who have worked and volunteered at the New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum. She described the memorial wall as “a beautiful and permanent space at Wanaka Airport which holds so many memories and history.”

The initiative encourages families with loved ones who have contributed to aviation in the region to submit names for inclusion on the wall. “It’s quite hard for us to track down because families have moved out of the area,” Hall admitted. Currently, there are two plaques on the wall, with plans to add two more in the upcoming week, showcasing the project’s growing significance.

The memorial wall is expected to open later this year, serving as a lasting tribute to the aviators whose impact on the community will not be forgotten.