Artefacts from flying pioneer Jean Batten donated to Motat

Jean Batten artefacts donated to MOTAT

Artefacts originally belonging to Jean Batten, New Zealand icon and pioneering aviator, have been donated by Auckland Airport to Motat's aviation collection.

The museum officially accepted the donation at the Walsh Memorial Library, in a building originally known as the "Pioneers of Aviation" building, officially opened by Jean Batten herself in 1977.

Batten's signature white leather flying cap, planisphere, stopwatch, photographs and the engine and flying log books from her Percival Gull aircraft were among the donated items.

Motat library and archives manager Philippa Robinson described the occasion as very special.

"The logbook recording her historic flight from England to New Zealand in 1936 is particularly significant.

"It's a fantastic story to be able to tell and these items complement the museum's existing collection of Jean Batten artefacts perfectly."

Batten is celebrated as one of New Zealand's most iconic figures in history and is famous for her proficiency in navigation and aviation accomplishments.

She received many international awards and trophies including the Harmon Trophy and the Challenge Cup, and was also the first female to be awarded the prestigious Federation Aeronautique Internationale.