The world’s most prolific high-performance aerobatic display pilot will be joined by one of New Zealand’s best at Easter’s Warbirds Over Wanaka (WOW) International Airshow, and both are promising jaw-dropping aerial displays.

WOW organisers have confirmed the return of two-time World Aerobatic champion Jurgis Kairys from Lithuania and a debut solo performance by Te Anau-based Ivan ‘Krazzy’ Krippner.

Jurgis said he can’t wait to return to WOW after last performing at the airshow in 2018.

“My first time in Wānaka was 2006 and I was blown away by the welcome I received,” Jurgis said. 

“It’s such a well-run event and known all around the world as one of the very best warbirds airshows.”

Jurgis has been flying aerobatics for more than 50 years and has performed at between 400 and 500 airshows and aerobatic competitions over the years, all around the world. 

Warbirds Over Wānaka general manager Ed Taylor said one of the most often asked questions leading up to an airshow is “will Jurgis be performing”?  

He has been nicknamed the ‘Lithuanian Maniac’ by the Wānaka commentary team, Ed said.

Former Wānaka-based pilot Ivan Krippner will also be performing his advanced aerobatics routine at the airshow. 

Ivan and his Pitts Special aerobatic aircraft. 

Ivan has performed at other airshows in New Zealand and Australia plus at least eight appearances at shows in China but this will be his first solo aerobatic display at WOW.

“Ivan used to practise his aerobatics over the Wānaka airfield when he lived here so he knows the area very well,” Ed said. “Like Jurgis he’s a real showman and entertaining the crowd is top of the agenda when it comes to performing.”

“When I used to practise aerobatics over the Wānaka airfield I always thought I would love to do it for real at the airshow,” Ivan said. “Now my chance is here and I am really pumped to put on a stunning display.”

PHOTOS: Supplied