Christchurch’s iconic Spitfire back and better than ever

Christchurch Airport’s iconic Spitfire has returned to its place in Spitfire Square, following an extensive refurbishment that has restored one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

The Spitfire has long been a point of pride and connection for locals and visitors alike. The restoration has brought new life to the replica, ensuring it remains a striking and meaningful feature for years to come.

The work, led by Kalon Andrews of Andrews and Gilmore Collision Centre, involved more than 450 hours of detailed craftsmanship. The project included significant structural repairs, fibreglass restoration, and a full repaint, alongside the addition of more authentic features to better reflect the original aircraft.

The project was overseen by Citycare Property, who also managed the careful and complex process of reinstalling the Spitfire onto its stand. 

Sean Tully, Christchurch Airports strategic Communication manger said
‘Our Spitfire holds a special place for many people in our community. Seeing it restored to this level, just ahead of ANZAC Day, is a meaningful way for us to honour that connection and the history it represents.’

During the refurbishment, the team uncovered and addressed extensive weather and structural damage, particularly on the upper surfaces exposed to heat and UV over time. Parts of the internal steel framework had to be rebuilt, and deteriorated materials replaced. The team also took the opportunity to improve the aircraft’s authenticity, refining details such as the tail markings, rear wheel, and underwing features.

To ensure accuracy, the paint scheme was carefully matched using templates from the original Spitfire, TE288 at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. 

Kalon Andrews said ‘ It’s been a real privilege to work on such an iconic piece of Christchurch. There were definitely challenges, especially with the hidden damage we uncovered, but we’ve taken the time to get the details right and do it justice. Seeing people stop, take photos and smile at the finished result makes it all worthwhile’.

The Spitfire now stands proudly once again in Spitfire Square, refreshed and ready to be appreciated by the community, welcome kiwis home with its return coming just ahead of ANZAC Day.