The second and third Boeing 727's for the RNZAF, NZ7271 and NZ7272 arrived at Whenuapai and Harewood respectively on 17 July (1981). Delivery of the two aircraft was aided by an Orion which helped with navigation and communications since neither of the Boeings was fitted with avionics suitable for long, trans-oceanic flights. One of the modifications to carried out in New Zealand is the fitting of an intertial navigation system which will overcome this problem. NZ7271 was quickly pressed into service in support of the police airlife during the South African rugby tour. During the first two weeks of August (1981) it was seen at Hamilton, Ohakea, Wellington, Christchurch and Invercargill as it moved police contingents to and from match venues. On 21 August it was inducted into the Air New Zealand workshops, Christchurch, on acceptance of NZ7272 which had entered them after its arrival in New Zealand. Time spent at Christchurch also saw the aircraft repainted in RNZAF VIP colours.
