Operated by the New Zealand Flying School, a precursor to the RNZAF. Photo from: National Library of Australia

The first aircraft built by William Boeing. This was Bluebill. When Boeing and his partner Conrad Westervelt were unable to interest the USN Navy they sold Bluebill and sister ship Mallard to the New Zealand Flying School. Bluebill became "F" in the school's fleet. The flying school became the basis of the New Zealand air force in 1926. Obsolete aircraft such as the Boeings were burnt but rumours have persisted they are sealed in a cave near Auckland. Photo from: Anton Berntsen/Alexander Turnbull Library

Part of the Imperial Gift, H2988 was operated by New Zealand Flying School. In 1924 the school was taken over by the New Zealand Permanent Air Force but H2988 is believed to have been burnt about this time. The structure in the left background is Kohimarama Pier, long since demolished. Photo from: Air Force Museum of New Zealand