Why TEAL? The motel’s name is a link with Tasman Empire Airways Limited (T.E.A.L) that operated in New Zealand from 1940 to 1965 and was a forerunner to Air New Zealand. The current TEAL Motor Lodge logo seems to rekindle distant memories of the past airline of the same name, however it bears little resemblance to the original symbolised "flying fish" T.E.A.L logo. There is a connection though - Legend has it that the original T.E.A.L sign that was located at the airline's head office in Auckland was acquired by a Gisborne gentleman many years ago. Years later, the original red neon TEAL letters were set into a new lighting box and after adding the distinctive 'Teal speed bird' flourish and the words ' Motor Lodge,' the current TEAL Motor Lodge logo was formed.
The 'flashing' neon sign was a Gisborne landmark for many years until the ravages of time finally caught up with it and was replaced with a modern Perspex illuminated sign.
The proprietors of TEAL Motor Lodge are keen collectors of memorabilia from the airline T.E.A.L. We would like to thank the airline enthusiasts and the general public who have generously assisted with our collection. So far the collection includes numerous: ashtrays, playing cards, postcards, menus, baggage labels, flight information cards, flight baggage, captain's peaked cap badge and much more.
If you have any item that relates to T.E.A.L please feel free to get in touch with us.
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