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History
In 1988 aviation entrepreneur Tim Wallis presented an airshow and country fair that attracted 14,000 visitors to Wanaka Airport.
Delighted with this success, he decided to expand on the theme and hold a biennial event over the long Easter weekend. As the show grew so did its support and now around 80,000 people make the pilgrimage to Wanaka for their weekend of excitement.
Now acclaimed as the largest Warbird Airshow in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the one event not to be missed.
Aircraft
Over 60 aircraft will attend Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow 2010.
Excitement and entertainment are paramount at the show and you will see some of the most famous warbirds that helped defend freedom during four world conflicts.
The heroes of World War II, the fighters of Japan and the awesome jets of Australia are all flown in exciting scenarios that recreate history right before your eyes. Participation by aircraft of the Royal New Zealand Air Force completes the scene. Feel the heat from huge fireballs and the concussion of explosions as a pyrotechnics display to rival the best action movie combines with military vehicles and an array of actors.
- Find out more about the Warbirds Aircraft in the next airshow
- View our photo galleries of Warbird Aircraft: World War I, World War II, Post World War II and Non-Military Aircraft
Military Vehicles, Vintage Machinery/Vehicles
The military vehicle and vintage machinery display is a walk back in time. As you amble through acres of displays you will discover New Zealand's heritage. Chat with the enthusiasts who have restored and who maintain these working examples and learn how equipment has developed through the last century.
The military enclosure is an area not to be missed. Vehicles from two World Wars are presented in life-like situations, complete with an array of actors in realistic uniforms. Watch the Sergeant Major bellow orders to his troops as the cook prepares lunch from the food kitchen.
Tanks and half-tracks patrol the perimeter guarding against enemy attack and all of a sudden you are transported back to a world at war.
Trade Stands
The Airshow commences on Good Friday with Trade Stands open to the public. From plastic kits to full-size aircraft, over 60 trade sites will tempt you with a full range of products. As a reminder of your weekend, Warbirds Over Wanaka official merchandise is available from several locations. Come and taste the sensational Central Otago wine and food at the food hall. Overhead aircraft practise for the forthcoming weekend show.
Wanaka Alpine Resort
Lake Wanaka is located right in the heart of the Southern Lakes and is the gateway to the Mt. Aspiring National Park. Internationally renowned for its glaciers and magnificent tramping and climbing it us nestled on the shores of an azure blue lake amongst the mighty peaks of the Southern Alps. The natural amphitheatre created by these mountains provides a backdrop of stunning scenery for the Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow.
This alpine resort features over 30 restaurants and has all the amenities to satisfy the most discerning visitor.
Centrally situated, visitors have a choice of accommodation and are within four hours drive of three international airports.
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