Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow is a must-see airshow. For three days over Easter, Lake Wanaka becomes centre-stage for an extravaganza of aerial action that will delight both aviation buffs, families and those wanting a superb days entertainment.

This is one of the four top Warbirds Airshows in the world where you will see some of the most famous Warbirds join forces with the classic aircraft of yesteryear and the modern jets of today, to present a veritable feast of aviation attractions. At Warbirds Over Wanaka you are so close to the continuous action you feel like you are in the pilot's seat. On the ground is a variety of Warhorse military vehicles, vintage machinery, an Aviation Trade Expo and wine and food from Central Otago will vie for your attention.

Warbirds Over Wanaka is a celebration of the achievements of mankind over the past 100 years or more in a number of fields, principally aviation in peace and in war but also in agriculture and technology generally.

In 1988 aviation entrepreneur Tim Wallis presented an airshow and country fair that attracted 14,000 visitors to Wanaka Airport on one day. Delighted with this success, he decided to expand on the theme and hold a biennial event over the long Easter weekend. As the Airshow grew so did its support and now almost 80,000 people make the pilgrimage to Wanaka for their weekend of excitement.

The Airshow is now a biennial centre piece of Central Otago’s tourist attractions and one of the world’s premier Warbirds Airshows.

Gold Pass

Warbirds Gold Pass is the premium ticket option for Warbirds 2010. Your gold pass gives you the best seating at the show with bucket style seated grandstands which are elevated for uninterupted views of the entire show and airfield. The "Gold Club" situated behind the grandstand, also offers a huge selection of food and beverages and is exclusive to Gold Pass ticket holders, so avoiding the long queues. Your ticket includes souvenir cap and badge, show programme, food voucher, opportunity to mingle with pilots at the end of each day. This pass is only available in advance with limited numbers. If children take a seat they pay full price. Ticket holders go in the draw to win a flight in a Mustang.