Alpine Airways

This 1963 film looks at how the development of high country aviation is taking on the challenges presented by the South Island’s rugged geography. Piloted by war veterans, small aircraft parachute supplies into remote locations for Forest Service hut building and service lighthouses. Meanwhile helicopters and airlines open up opportunities for industry (venison, tourism, forestry, topdressing) and recreation (fishing, hunting). Good keen men, smokos and Swannies abound in this classically-filmed National Film Unit documentary.

It services almost impossible places, making familiar even large areas formerly marked unexplored.

– From the narration, on the amphibian aeroplane

Key Cast & Crew

Mike Bennett

Director, Writer

Bob Lapresle

Director, Writer, Director

Geoffrey Scott

Producer

Cyril Morton

Producer

Ron Skelley

Sound

Don Oakley

Camera