A rare UK-based aircraft will be one of the international stars of next Easter’s Warbirds Over Wānaka (WOW) airshow as the event marks the 90th anniversary of the first ever flight of the iconic Spitfire.

The aircraft is one of only two Mark XI Spitfires still flying in the world.

It will be displayed in Wānaka by its owner John Romain, who is the world’s most experienced Spitfire pilot.

“Marking the 90th anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire at such a well-known airshow will be a great honour,” he said.

The Mark XI variant was specially designed to perform high altitude, long distance photographic operations.  

One of the type’s most famous exploits was taking the first images of the damage caused following the famous ‘Dambusters’ raid.

John said he can’t wait to return to Wānaka.  

“The last time I flew at the Wānaka airshow was in 2018 when I brought over my Buchon ME-109 and I had such a good time I have always wanted to return,” he said.

New Zealand’s only airworthy Spitfire, the Mark IX, owned by Brendon Deere, will also make an appearance at WOW 2026 to mark the anniversary.

They are among other aircraft and performances which have been announced for the upcoming airshow.

Read more: ‘American Eagles’ confirmed for Warbirds 2026

Warbirds Over Wānaka International Airshow will take place at Wānaka Airport from April 3-5, 2026.  

Tickets are on sale now.

PHOTO: ARC Duxford