item details
NameTEAL matchbook
ProductionTasman Empire Airways Limited; creating agency; 1950s - 1960s; New Zealand
Classificationmatches
Materialscardboard, ink
DimensionsOverall: 50mm (width), 57mm (height), 7mm (depth)
Registration NumberGH024802
Credit lineGift of Leslie and Shirley Megget, on behalf of Joyce Megget, 2015
Overview
This matchbook was given to passengers flying on Tasman Empire Airways Limited's 'Hibiscus' service from Auckland to Fiji. The serviced commenced in 1953. The Hibiscus flower was a key feature used by TEAL in the promotion of the service, the flower adorned flight attendant's uniforms, the headdress of seats and was printed on giveaways. Hibiscus blooms were presented by TEAL crew to passengers as they arrived and left Nadi International Airport.
Smoking was allowed on flights during this period and was not banned on international flights until 1992 (smoking was banned on domestic flights in 1988).