Christchurch Wigram
Discover an intriguing relationship between flying and a country located in the depths of the southern Pacific ocean. NZ national air force museum attractions is one of a string of significant aeronautical attractions in NZ from Omaka Aviation Centre in Blenheim to the Classic Flying Museum in Tauranga. Kiwis can fly sometimes, our feathered friend, native kiwi (flightless bird) takes to the skies as an icon on the badges of the flyers.
Perhaps you’ve seen the kiwi (bird) in either Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve now meet the human kiwi heroes of New Zealand whose task was to defend New Zealand and its allies in times of conflict.
Listen to the story of New Zealand’s military aviation adventure at the place where people took to the skies training for World War I. Discover New Zealand’s military aviation story at the place where it all began. Engage with stories of the men and women who have helped shape New Zealand’s military aviation journey.
Bursting with light the entrance, ‘The Atrium’ is a welcoming space with the gift shop, reception to book guided tours and a vintage plane aloft floating from the ceiling.
The ‘Horizon to Horizon’ gallery narrates the story of New Zealand military aviation history using personal stories to focus on events and happenings. An thematic timeline runs through the centre of the gallery linking the stories together with significant dates and milestones.
The Caldwell Gallery is currently exhibiting NZPAF100: The origins of New Zealand Air Power. The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) as we know it today became an independent service in 1937, but the full story of Aotearoa New Zealand’s Air Force is longer than that.
Guided tours of the Air Force Museum New Zealand
Get to peek behind the workshops and view The Reserve Collection as you make your way to the Conservation Workshop.
Aircraft hall
Theatrical lighting adds drama to the exhibits of classic airfare. There are also aircraft of non-RNZAF origin, which represent different aspects of New Zealand’s military aviation story.
What is there to do nearby the Air Force Museum of New Zealand, Christchurch?
There are plenty of things to do nearby the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. Spend visit browsing offerings at the Riccarton Sunday Market. And kids get parents to check out New Zealand’s premier playground destination, Margaret Mahy playground is a fantasy come to life evocating the books of famous author Margaret Mahy.
Air Force Museum of New Zealand – kids focus
The Air Force Museum offers a range of Museum Hunts suitable for 4 – 12-year-olds, with changing themes and challenges every school holiday. A Hunt is a great way to explore the Museum together. Fees apply with each completed entry eligible for a prize.
Opening Hours for the Air Force Museum of New Zealand
Open daily 9.30am to 4.30pm
(except Christmas Day, 25 December)
Entry to the Museum is FREE – but donations are welcome
Accessible for all
Location – Air Force Museum of New Zealand
45 Harvard Ave, Wigram, Christchurch, New Zealand
Need more holiday inspiration about Christchurch. Check out Things to do in Christchurch places to visit, attractions, activities & heritage.
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