Warbirds Over Wanaka

The Messerschmitt featured in a mock battle, including pyrotechnics, with a Spitfire, both of which were significant in World War two air battles. "This was a major coup for us and helped reaffirm our status as one of the world's best Warbirds airshows." Ed Taylor, Warbirds of Wanaka, General Manager said.

The 2016 Warbirds over Wanaka airshow was rated a big success.  Attendance was up by almost 1,000 visitors on 2014 at more than 49,000 people over the three days.  Around 15% of visitors were from overseas.“There were so many highlights it’s hard to single them out.  However, Taylor highlights that they were thrilled with the Friday event on the lakefront featuring the Catalina landing on the lake. 

As it looks to the future, the Warbirds Over Wanaka team is excited to announce that is will establish and fund new Flying Scholarships, which it hopes to launch mid-year.  The main aim of these is to help get people, who are already pilots, gain experience in flying Warbird aircraft. Trust Chairman John Gilks comments that “As we approach our 30^th anniversary it’s important we do something positive to ensure there will be pilots able to fly these amazing machines for the next 30 years.”