We use cookies to help us understand how you use our site, and make your experience better. To find out more read our privacy policy.
Play

00:00

/

00:00

Full screen
Video quality

Low 0 MB

High 0 MB

HD 0 MB

Captions
Volume
Volume
Hero image for Off the Ground - 2, Challenge and Crisis

Off the Ground - 2, Challenge and Crisis

Television (Full Length Episode) – 1982

The second part of this 1982 series on the history of aviation in New Zealand hang glides to the 1930s golden age where world famous flying feats (from the likes of Aussie Sir Charles Kingsford Smith and NZ aviatrix Jean Batten) inspired a surge in aero and gliding clubs and the beginning of commercial domestic flights and aerial mapping. War saw Kiwis flying for the RAF and modernised an ageing RNZAF, taking it from biplanes to jet aircraft. Presented by pilot Peter Clements, the series was made for TV by veteran director Conon Fraser and the National Film Unit.

One never fathoms or fully understands air movements and it’s a perpetual challenge, and a very exhilarating one. It can be very lonely. I think in life one has to be frightened every now and again. It does one good and makes one appreciate the wonderful experience living is.
– Record breaking glider pilot Dick Jorgenson

Key Cast & Crew

Generic Profile image for Tom Williamson

Tom Williamson

Producer

Profile image for Conon Fraser

Conon Fraser

Writer, Director

Generic Profile image for Peter Clements

Peter Clements

Original idea, Presenter

Generic Profile image for Roger Goldstone

Roger Goldstone

Sound

Profile image for Brian Shennan

Brian Shennan

Sound Mix

Profile image for Dell King

Dell King

Editor

See all 9 credits