Whenuapai Hangars Camouflaged in WWII

[Dave Homewood]

Here's an interesting one from the Auckland Star on the 15th of October 1945! Note the last line!

NEWS OF THE DAY

Brightening Up Whenuapai

Evidences of critical wartime conditions, when dispersal hangars and camps were built for emergency use and all buildings were thoroughly camouflaged, have now almost disappeared from Whenuapai. The dispersal hangars were intended to accommodate aircraft under conditions which would reduce damage in the event of raids, and the extra camps were to afford greater protection for airmen and administrative personnel. The permanent dwellings were, of course, also camouflaged to reduce risk. To-day, one of the signs of return to normality is the new and bright appearance of the residential area, where the camouflage has completely disappeared. It is likely that before long the fading clouds and trees painted on the big curved-top hangars and other buildings will similarly vanish.

[Dave Homewood]

So the concrete hangars were painted as clouds, and had trees on top? I have never seen photos of that!

[ErrolC]

I read that as the trees being painted as well :-)

[Dave Homewood]

Oh yes, painted on, not planted on. Still very interesting.

I have seen a photo somewhere and have never been able to remember where of Hobsonville's aerodrome all painted like roads and paddocks.