The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is planning on a big turnout of its aircraft for next Easter’s Warbirds Over Wānaka international airshow.

It will include the first major airshow display by the new C-130J Hercules aircraft which replaced the C-130H which was farewelled at the last Wānaka airshow in 2024.

Warbirds Over Wānaka general manager Ed Taylor said organisers were rapt to potentially have a full line-up of RNZAF aircraft displaying next Easter.

“The Thunder Formation in 2024 featuring two of the old Hercs and the B757 was a huge hit with fans,” he said.

“This time around it’s hoped this same display will feature the new 130-J, the B757 and the relatively new P-8 Poseidon.  

“If you love big aircraft you’re going to love this display.”

Another highlight will be the return of the world-class Black Falcons Aerobatic Display Team which shows off the skills of some of the RNZAF’s best pilots along with the crowd-favourite Kiwi Blue parachute display team.

The Air Force is also hoping to have all three helicopter types at Wānaka – the NH90, A109 and Seasprite – although final confirmation is not expected until the New Year.

As in previous years the RNZAF is also planning on playing a big role in the free community lakeside airshow staged by Warbirds Over Wānaka late on Good Friday of the airshow weekend.

Read more: Ed Taylor to step down after final Warbirds Over Wānaka

PHOTO: Gavin Conroy