Warbirds Over Wānaka general manager Ed Taylor says Easter’s international airshow was “hugely successful”, with attendees telling him it was the best Wānaka airshow ever.

The event, which took place in Wānaka this past weekend (March 29-31), kicked off with a free air display on Friday afternoon at the Wānaka lakefront and culminated in two days of events at the Wānaka Airport.

More than 50,000 people were expected to attend the airshow.

“We are still awaiting final ticket data and also the result of our economic impact assessment but we know we have had a hugely successful airshow,” Ed said.

Wānaka Business Chamber chair Glenn Peat said the event generates “a significant economic boost for our region”.

“Previous airshows have increased visitor spending at local businesses across the board, from accommodation and restaurants to retail stores and tourism activities,” he said.

Some reports have estimated the economic impact to be around $40M, but Glenn said it was too early to say.

'Steadfast' provided an aerobatics spectacle.

Ed said the airshow organisers intend to be back for Easter 2026. 

“Once the dust has settled and we have paid all the bills we will be in a much better position to know how it has all ended up. We are hoping that in the end we will be in a strong position to be able to fund another fantastic show in 2026.” 

Ed said there were challenges with organising any major international event, especially one held outdoors.  

“We work hard to keep our ticket prices down plus we look to always give back to our community with initiatives such as our free lakeside airshow on the Friday afternoon,” he said.

Ed said he had been “blown away” by feedback from visitors and locals alike following the airshow.

“Usually people say things like ‘great airshow’ – this time they have been saying ‘best Wānaka airshow EVER’.”

PHOTOS: Geoff Marks