New Zealand Survey (1938)

Campsite of the New Zealand Pacific Aviation Survey in 1938. The camp was near the Norwich City survivors camp of 1929 on Nutiran. (Courtesy, Wigram Air Force Base Archives, RNZAF)

Late in 1938 an expedition was undertaken to evaluate certain British islands in the South Pacific for their suitability for aviation operations, both the construction of airfields and the use of lagoons by flying boats. In charge of the project, known as “The New Zealand Pacific Aviation Survey,” was RNZAF Squadron-Leader E. A. Gibson.

This portion of the island where the New Zealand survey party was encamped when the first Gilbertese settlers arrived became known as Nutiran (prounounced "new see run").

• New Zealand Pacific Aviation Expedition General Report.
• Two reports by E.W. Lee, who was in charge of the survey.
• Excerpts from the journal of Petty Officer M.H. Hay.
• Maps and photos.
• Forensic Imaging study of one photograph from the 1938 Survey--possible airplane parts?
• Final resolution about the features seen in the New Zealand photos--plating from the ship.
• SS Norwich City