Saturday, October 5, 2024

Aviation extravaganza returns to Wanaka

New Zealand’s premier airshow is set to roar back into life next Easter.

The 2020 and 2022 editions of the airshow were cancelled at the last minute because of Covid restrictions but with the pandemic now behind them organisers are looking forward to what’s expected to be a bumper crowd next March 29, 30 and 31st.

Event Manager Andrena Davis says based on ticket sales already they’re planning on one of the biggest crowds in years descending on Wanaka Airport.

“We have had huge interest from the public wanting to attend the airshow but also from exhibitors wanting to be part of the event as well.”

New to Warbirds Over Wanaka in 2024 will be a ‘Future of Aviation’ exhibition featuring up to a dozen companies at the forefront of aviation sustainability. This includes an electric aircraft, solar aircraft, drones being used for good and a Jet Pack.

When it comes to the aerial displays Warbirds Over Wanaka is welcoming some amazing new aircraft along with crowd favourites from previous airshows.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the American Eagles jet display team from the United States. A couple of them flew in the crack USAF Thunderbirds F-16 display team so they really are the best of the best. Then there’s the ex-RNZAF P-51 Mustang flying for the first time in 67 years and the return of the Corsair for the first time at Wanaka in eight years,” says Andrena.

There are a couple of ticket options for those wanting to secure a grandstand seat. “We still have 3-day and 1-day Silver Pass grandstand tickets and there are still some 3-day only Gold Pass tickets left but these are proving very popular. For those who want to bring their own camp chairs the General Admission ticket could be right for you,” says Andrena.

For more information check out the Warbirds Over Wanaka website www.warbirdsoverwanaka.co.nz

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