Ake Ake Kia Kaha (Original) SOLD

Vickers Wellingtons of 75 (NZ) Squadron are brought to life in preparation for operations over Germany in the winter of 1940. The squadron’s motto, Ake Ake Kia Kaha, (Forever be Strong), reflects the fact that the Kiwi crews of 75 (NZ) Squadron carried out the highest number of heavy bomber operations in RAF Bomber Command, losing the second highest number of aircraft as a result.

“When I was young, I always dreamt of travelling to New Zealand.  It was on the other side of the world but somehow I imagined it a ‘home from home’.  When I was lucky enough to realise my dream in 2010, I found New Zealand to be even better than I imagined, a genuine paradise in many ways, and so far away from the madness of the northern hemisphere.  As such, I thought it was time to pay tribute to the brave men of 75 (NZ) Squadron who volunteered to leave that paradise to go and fight in a distant war between good and evil. Their motto is a fitting tribute to thousands of Kiwis who never returned to their homeland.  This painting is my tribute to them.”

This original painting is 40″ x 20″ (102cm x 51cm) and is now for sale. (Frame is for illustrative purposes only)

UK purchasers can receive it fully framed, but due to the size of the painting, overseas purchasers should receive the painting unframed and rolled in a tube ready for restretching and framing.

Please contact me directly with any questions you may have. You are welcome to make an offer for this painting and we can discuss alternative methods of payment if required. If you’re in the UK I can do my best to deliver the canvas personally.

Limited Edition prints are available HERE