The Last Great Air Race Finished At Christchurch – 10th October 1953

On 10 October 1953, the last great air race took place between Heathrow Airport, London and Christchurch International Airport. Christchurch was chosen in 1950 as Christchurch Airport had become international. There were two sections to the race; one was for speed whereas the other was commercial. The speed race was won by the Royal Air …

Heathcote Joined The Greater Christchurch – 1st October 1953

On 1 October 1953, Heathcote joined the Great Christchurch and came under the care of the C.C.C. Heathcote was originally known as ‘Hammerton’, the name of the 40 Hectare property owned by a well liked and respected pioneer- Isaac Cookson. When he moved away a decade later, the area was renamed Heathcote, after Sir William …