Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow Returns in 2026

Planning is well underway for the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Warbirds Airshow. After a six-year hiatus, the event made a spectacular return at Easter 2024, drawing record-breaking crowds and showcasing breathtaking displays from both historic and modern aircraft. The 2026 airshow is set to take place on April 3, 4, and 5, promising another unforgettable weekend of aviation excitement. Warbirds Over Wanaka is renowned for attracting a diverse array of privately owned warbirds alongside their modern counterparts from the RNZAF, RAAF, and USAF. While the aircraft are the stars of the show, the extensive ground displays have long been a highlight, offering visitors interactive experiences, exhibitors, and aviation-related attractions. With over 36 years of history, the airshow continues to set high expectations, and organizers have already secured an impressive lineup for 2026.

A major highlight will be the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s participation. The RNZAF will bring both its modern aircraft and its Heritage Flight, featuring classic warbirds housed at Ohakea Air Base. Visitors can look forward to displays by some of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history, including the Supermarine Spitfire, P-51 Mustang, and Grumman Avenger.

Adding international flair to the 2026 lineup, a rare UK-based aircraft will join the festivities to mark the 90th anniversary of the first flight of the iconic Spitfire. One of only two Mk XI Spitfires still flying in the world, this aircraft also played a unique role in the UK’s Covid response. It will be displayed at Wanaka by its owner, and flown by the world’s most experienced Spitfire pilot, John Romain. It will share the skies with New Zealand’s only airworthy Spitfire, a Mk IX owned by Brendon Deere and based at Ohakea.

Another international star confirmed for next Easter is the world’s only airworthy Yak-7B fighter. Brought to New Zealand by Mike O’Rourke in 2019, the aircraft underwent a complete rebuild by Jay McIntyre and his team at JEM Aviation in Blenheim. Restoration progress has accelerated in recent months, with the aircraft scheduled to fly in time for its New Zealand airshow debut at Wanaka.

Beyond the aerial displays, the 2026 airshow will feature amazing pyrotechnics, aircraft for sale, Air Force recruiters, Air Cadets, sport aviation exhibits, and a wide variety of other exhibitors—ensuring an unforgettable experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. Warbirds Over Wanaka 2026 promises to deliver the perfect mix of history, excitement, and spectacle, reaffirming its reputation as one of the premier airshows in the Southern Hemisphere. For more information, visit www.warbirdsoverwanaka.com.