It was hard to tell it was a de Havilland DH82 Tiger Moth, he said. Mr Thompson said the engine had been overhauled in Australia, and he had spent about 1000 hours putting the frame back together. Despite restoring aircraft for 46 years, Mr Thompson said there was always a mix of ‘‘nervousness and pride’’ when planes went on their first test flights after he had worked on them. Once it is certified, the biplane will be flown to Warbirds Over Wanaka to be put on display. Mr Spencer-Bower said after that the plane might be advertised online, offering flight experiences for aeronautical fans and history buffs.
