Mat Hellyer is returning to Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow this Easter, and he has a very good reason to be coming back.

Mat has been confirmed as the new General Manager of New Zealand’s Premier Airshow, taking over from Ed Taylor who is stepping down after 14 years in the top job.

Currently General Manager Events and Operations at Sky (now Hnry) Stadium in Wellington, Mat will start his new role later in the year but will visit the airshow this Easter to get a first-hand look at how the event has grown since he last attended.

Born and raised in Central Otago, Mat spent a lot of time in Wanaka, including attending the airshow several times with his father.

“Having attended years ago and having worked in the Events industry for many years, I have always been very aware of the incredible success Warbirds has enjoyed and its place as one of New Zealand’s favourite events.  The legacy of the event, the significant economic impact for the wider region and the way it gives back to the community is impressive,” says Mat.

Warbirds Over Wanaka Community Trust Chairman Paul Moodie has welcomed the appointment.

“Ed has been an outstanding GM and his successor needed to be equally talented. Our search for a replacement provided us with high quality candidates, none more so than Mat. He comes to us with excellent event experience and a passion for this region. We are looking forward to working with Mat in the led up to the 2028 show, our 40th anniversary,” says Paul.

Mat will be moving to Wanaka with his family later this year.