First NameDouglas LesleyLast NameShearsAlternative NameD L ShearsDescriptionDoug Shears was born in Timaru in 1923 and from a young age had a love of aviation. He joined the RNZAF and during World War Two spent four years flying in Britain.
He was instrumental in the introduction of helicopters to New Zealand and was the first New Zealander to go to the USA to learn to fly them commercially. He was also involved with the Timaru Yacht and Power Boat Club.
Doug also wrote several books on local history including his autobiography 'Damn my two left feet... : ...and how I flew with them'. Copies are available in the Aoraki Heritage Collection. Please follow the link below for more information.External LinkTimaru District Libraries catalogue: search Doug ShearsDate of Birth1923Place of BirthTimaruDate of Death2006SubjectAviationWarBiography