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Story: Topdressing

First topdressing trials

The first aerial topdressing trials were made at Ōhakea in 1948. A New Zealand Air Force Avenger torpedo bomber was fitted with a reserve petrol tank modified to carry and release fertiliser. Trays were laid on the ground to measure the rate and spread of the fertiliser. Conclusions were so encouraging that further trials were planned – and the aerial topdressing industry was born.

About this item

Archives New Zealand - Te Rua Mahara o te Kawanatanga
Reference: Weekly Review 370. National Film Unit, 1948

Permission of Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kawanatanga must be obtained before any re-use of this material.

How to cite this page:

John Maber. 'Topdressing', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 1-Mar-09
URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/topdressing/4/2