Pigeon-gram Air Mail service
Illustration 1: Map of Pigeon Airmail Route
The first organised pigeon airmail service was started in 1896 between New Zealand and the Great Barrier Island. The sinking of the SS Wairarapa off the Great Barrier Island, with the loss of 134 lives, was a catalyst for the service. News of the disaster did not reach New Zealand for 3-days and as a direct result a pigeon-gram service was set up between the two islands. 
Pigeon-Gram Stamp
The first message was carried in January 1896 and took less than 1.75 hours to reach Auckland. Up to 5 messages were carried by each pigeon with the record time for the journey being held by a pigeon called ‘Velocity’ taking only 50 minutes and averaging 125 kmph (only 40% slower than a modern aircraft!).
Special pigeon-gram stamps were issued costing 2/- (10 pence) each with the fee being paid in cash before the pigeon was released.
