I just learned all of this today which followed learning of the passing of both Paul Leaman (WWI Aviation Historian) and Sir Stirling Moss, both age 90.
First, my gratitude to Sir Peter for bringing us WNW. He set the bar for WWI models and I think providing a model (sic) for CSM to follow with their Nieuports. One of these I have on my bench currently.
I do not know anything of New Zealand politics, other than Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern has impressed me with her responses to the mosque shootings and COVID-19. I also know she leads a Liberal government in a time when the tax base has been depleted by the economic shutdown. I would suspect that in the aftermath, all forms of 'corporate welfare' will likely come under scrutiny as the government will need funds. Apparently from the February news clipping, Weta was already.
Another reason for my pessimism is that the kits were molded in China. It is quite likely that this may have been done in a province where the outbreak has been severe. This could have harmed the subcontractor, its employees or the molds themselves could be infected. Apparently the virus can live on metal surfaces.
If this comes to pass, my first thought is for the talented employees at Weta and WNW, who through no fault of their own are caught up in this.
