What happened
During an aerial display celebrating the anniversary of the London - Christchurch Rallye, two Devon aircraft operated by the RNZAF were performing maneuvers near Wigram Airbase. The aircraft involved, registered as NZ1810 and NZ1181, were approaching the airfield from a southern direction at an altitude of approximately 1,200 feet.
During the approach, the two planes made contact, with the right wing of NZ1810 striking the left wing of NZ1181. This collision caused both aircraft to lose stability and enter an uncontrolled descent. Both planes crashed into a field situated roughly 700 meters from the perimeter of the airbase. The impact resulted in the total destruction of both airframes and caused seven fatalities, as there were no survivors among the crew members on either aircraft.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the accident was the result of improper judgment by the flight crews while operating in formation.