Trust and Trustees

Classic Flyers NZ is owned by the Bay of Plenty Classic Aircraft Trust, a registered Charitable Trust.

Our aims are:

• To Preserve Classic and Historic Aircraft and

• To Support the retention of New Zealand’s aviation history.

The Trust strives to gather, protect and preserve aircraft and aviation memorabilia from bygone times – especially material with a Bay of Plenty or New Zealand connection.

 

Our Trustees

 

Andrew Gormlie – CEO and Trustee

Andrew is a company director, successful businessman and experienced commercial pilot with ratings across a wide range of aircraft. A passionate aviation enthusiast, Andrew is an active member of the New Zealand Warbirds Association and part owner of several iconic aircraft, including a North American Harvard, CT4B Airtrainer and Boeing Stearman.

As CEO and Trustee of Classic Flyers NZ, Andrew brings strong leadership, business expertise and a lifelong passion for aviation heritage. He has played a key role in the growth and ongoing success of the organisation, helping develop Classic Flyers into one of New Zealand’s leading aviation museums, event venues and adventure flight destinations.

Andrew has proudly called Mount Maunganui home for more than 25 years and remains deeply committed to supporting aviation preservation, community engagement and future generations of aviation enthusiasts.

David Love - Trustee

David is a retired Royal Air Force Group Captain with an extensive career in senior military and civilian leadership roles, including serving as Chief of Security for Allied Command Europe in Belgium. A long-standing aviation enthusiast and respected figure within the New Zealand aviation community.

David has played a significant role in the growth and development of Bay of Plenty Classic Aircraft Trust and Classic Flyers NZ over more than two decades. His leadership, governance experience, and passion for preserving aviation heritage have helped establish Classic Flyers as one of New Zealand’s leading aviation museums. David is based in Tauranga.

Ross Brown - Chairman & Trustee

Ross Brown offers extensive governance, business management, and community leadership experience, with over 50 years of professional and personal connection to Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.

• Governance & Board Experience
  • Board Member, Tauranga Girls’ College Board of Trustees – 4 years
  • Board Member, Tauranga Club – 3 years
  • Board Member, Tauranga Garden and Art Festival – 5 years
• Business & Management
  • Co-owner and operator, Harrison’s Art Gallery and Picture Framing – 9 years
  • Chief Photographer, Bay of Plenty Times – 30 years
  • General Manager, Sun Media (publishers of The Weekend Sun and SunLive News) – 5 years
  • Licensed Real Estate Agent, Eves Realty – present
• Aviation Involvement
  • Gained a Private Pilot Licence through Tauranga Aero Club in the early 1980s
  • Longstanding interest in aviation with a personal and professional commitment to the sector
  • Supporter  of Classic Flyers Tauranga for the past 15 years becoming a volunteer 3 years ago.

Ross brings focus, dedication, and broad business and governance expertise, alongside a deep understanding of the local community and a lifelong passion for aviation, to contribute effectively to the Bay of Plenty Classic Aircraft Trust Board.

Lawrence Graham - Trustee

Laurie is a retired business professional with a diverse career spanning the animal health industry, glass manufacturing, farming, and property development. Based in Cambridge for more than 30 years, Laurie has built strong connections within the local community and continues to contribute through his leadership and service roles. He is currently a Director and President of the Rotary Club of Cambridge, reflecting his long-standing commitment to community involvement and supporting local initiatives. Laurie is married with two children and brings a wealth of practical business experience and governance knowledge to the board.

Left - David Love - Middle - Ross Brown - Right - Andrew Gormlie