 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (February 2013) |
| No. 42 Squadron RNZAF | |
|---|---|
| Active | December 1943 – present |
| Country |  New Zealand |
| Branch |  Royal New Zealand Air Force |
| Role | VIP transport, aircrew training, general transport |
| Part of | CO Flying Training Wing |
| Garrison/HQ | RNZAF Base Ohakea |
| Motto(s) | Māori – "Tara Ki Uta, Tara Ki Tai" English – "We span the land, from coast to coast" |
| Colors | Blue and white checkers |
| Mascot(s) | Kererū (New Zealand pigeon) |
| Equipment | Beechcraft B300 King Air 350i |
| Engagements | Gulf War, Iran–Iraq War, Somalia |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Squadron Leader Freddy Ferris |
| Insignia | |
| Squadron Badge | Kererū perched superimposed on a terrestrial globe on which New Zealand is highlighted. |
No. 42 Squadron is an active transport squadron of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). It was formed at Rongotai Airport (Wellington) in December 1943 to provide a communications service around New Zealand, initially using impressed civilian types. It was briefly officially disbanded in 1946, but its aircraft continued with general purpose operations at RNZAF Station Ohakea (near Bulls). When reformed, the squadron was equipped with various numbers of North American Harvard, Auster, Grumman Avenger, Airspeed Oxford, de Havilland Devon, North American P-51 Mustang and Douglas Dakota aircraft.
TBF Avengers flown by 42 Squadron pilots were involved in the first aerial topdressing trials carried out in the world, spreading superphosphate fertiliser alongside the runways at RNZAF Ohakea. Their main purpose was to tow gunnery targets (drogues and banners) for air-to-air gunnery and for the navy and army. The P-51 Mustang also provided high-speed towing of banner targets, especially for de Havilland Vampire jets, and was used extensively for co-operation in army manoeuvres.