108 | Aviation Museum set to grow The Ashburton Aviation Museum houses the largest aircraft collection in New Zealand. Ashburton Aviation Museum T T Bernadette Cooney COMMUNITY A staple of the local community since its founding in 1974, the Ashburton Aviation Museum is on the brink of a significant transformation with the construction of a major hangar extension. This ambitious project, undertaken by local builders Quaid Construction, will see the museum’s total footprint expand from 3000 to 5000sqm, vastly improving exhibit space and the overall visitor experience. Construction of the $1.6million hangar extension project commenced in January this year and is due for completion in December. The Ashburton Aviation Museum has grown from humble beginnings, starting with a single Bofors AA Gun and a RNZAF Harvard No.12 aircraft, to now housing the largest aircraft collection in New Zealand. Today, it contains 32 aircraft, 10 gliders and microlights, six helicopters, 12 engines, 15 large model aircraft, and four cockpits – two of which visitors can climb inside. Additionally, a meticulously crafted diorama depicts Ashburton Airport as it stood in 1942 when it was used as an Elementary Flying Training School by the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Through years of dedication from volunteers, the museum has continually expanded, with its last major development being the replica control tower, which opened in 2018. However, the need for further growth became undeniable as the collection outgrew its current display space, says Stephen Johnston, president of the Ashburton Aviation Museum Society Trust. “The expansion is necessary, as we have simply run out of room. The hangar extension will provide an integrated space by connecting the existing two hangars into a single, expansive building, which will make the museum more user-friendly, bringing currently stored exhibits out for public display,” says Stephen. The new layout will also include a fresh, modern reception area to welcome visitors, complete with a shop, and a seating area where visitors can get self-service hot and cold refreshments and views over the airfield. The additional space will also serve as a community asset, providing a function centre with a modern kitchen and the ability to seat up to 200 people. The upgraded facilities will improve the museum’s ability to host school groups, provide a convention centre for local events, and serve as a potential Civil Defence hub in the event of a major disaster. This expansion isn’t just about aviation history – it’s about enhancing Ashburton’s tourism appeal and providing new opportunities for local engagement. The Ashburton District Council supports the project, recognising it as a valuable regional attraction. Visitor numbers have been steadily increasing, nearly doubling over the last five years. The enhanced museum is expected to attract even more guests, boosting the local economy and supporting other attractions in the region. The museum’s 45 volunteers will also benefit from an improved workspace and stronger community connection. “The goal is to have the structure standing by May this year. Meanwhile, the museum remains open to visitors, albeit with minor detours around the construction zone,” says Stephen. This hangar expansion is set to secure the Ashburton Aviation Museum’s place as a top-tier attraction and community hub. With strong local support, the future of the museum looks brighter than ever. Rural, Commercial, Residential • FarmMaintenance • Irrigation • • Lime capping • Laneways • Treework • Longreach digger • Utility Detection Service • Mulching • Hiab • Shingle Supplies • Directional Drilling • AND MUCH MORE! Proud to support the local community for over 30 years. youngelectricalltd.co.nz PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE ASHBURTON AVIATION MUSEUM FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS
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