The South Canterbury Aero Club has a rich history in New Zealand’s aviation training and participation.  

 

Aviation training in South Canterbury first began in 1930 at Washdyke, then moved to the Saltwater Creek Airport in 1932.  The Timaru Air Pilots’ Club fostered private flying, training and competitions. 

 

In November, 1946, the South Canterbury Aero Club (SCAC) was incorporated with flight training at Saltwater Creek, in Tiger-moths ZK-ALJ and ZK-ALQ.  

 

In 1953, the Aero Club moved to its present site at Timaru Airport and throughout the years had its ups and downs battling membership numbers and flying interest.

 

Today the South Canterbury Aero Club is still based out at the Levels Raceway in Timaru and operate 3 aircraft.

 

For more, in-detail history about aviation in South Canterbury have a look at the book "Wings Over South Canterbury" by D.E.Drake.