Jean Gardner Batten

Jean Gardner Batten, in flying clothes, alongside her aeroplane, 1934.

This photo was taken, possibly at Rongotai airport, Wellington, during Batten’s tour of New Zealand in July/August 1934. This followed her first successful long-distance flight from England to Australia, completed in May 1934. 

Batten sailed to New Zealand in late June 1934 with her mascot cat, Buddy. Her Gipsy Moth was stowed on board to allow her to use it on her six-week tour of the country. Batten flew to civic receptions in more than 20 towns with Buddy stowed in the plane’s luggage locker.

• Read more about Jean Batten
• Read more about Buddy the cat