NZ Warbirds at Ardmore Auckland
Experience the roar of legendary aircraft at NZ Warbirds, Ardmore. See iconic planes up close and in the air!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the full spectacle
NZ Warbirds at Ardmore Auckland
Best Time
Experience the full spectacle

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the roar of legendary aircraft at NZ Warbirds, Ardmore. See iconic planes up close and in the air!
"An AMAZING display of planes, pre and post war, all lovingly maintained."
🎯 Arrive Early for Events
Beat the crowds and get prime viewing spots for airshows. Parking can get busy, so plan ahead!
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy a coffee and watch planes take off and land from the cafe deck. A relaxed way to experience Ardmore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Warbirds in Flight
Ardmore Airport
Witness legendary aircraft like Mustangs and Corsairs roar to life. Experience the thrill of aviation history.

Museum Treasures
Warbirds Museum Hangars
Explore meticulously maintained WW1, WW2, and post-war aircraft. Many are airworthy and tell incredible stories.

Family Fun & Reenactments
Event Grounds
Enjoy airshow entertainment, mock battles, and even dress-up opportunities for kids. A full day of excitement.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ardmore's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Events
Beat the crowds and get prime viewing spots for airshows. Parking can get busy, so plan ahead!
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy a coffee and watch planes take off and land from the cafe deck. A relaxed way to experience Ardmore.
✈️ Museum Volunteers
The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask them questions – they love sharing stories!
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Perfect for aviation enthusiasts and photographers. Capture stunning shots of these magnificent machines.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Events
Beat the crowds and get prime viewing spots for airshows. Parking can get busy, so plan ahead!
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy a coffee and watch planes take off and land from the cafe deck. A relaxed way to experience Ardmore.
✈️ Museum Volunteers
The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask them questions – they love sharing stories!
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Perfect for aviation enthusiasts and photographers. Capture stunning shots of these magnificent machines.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Dress-up stations for kids and engaging displays make it a great outing for the whole family.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the passion of the volunteers and the impressive collection of airworthy aircraft. The airshows are a major highlight, offering thrilling displays for all ages. While parking and exit can be slow during major events, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical significance and engaging atmosphere.
"My dad flew a tiger moth back when he was 19 (now 82,) so a real aircraft enthusiast. He had a smile from ear to ear+the stories he told. It was good value for money+ you could tell the ones that were there on a voluntary basis loved it+were very knowledgeable on all the aircraft. Well setup, too."
Karen Braddock
"Brilliant place to visit. Open most weekends 10:30am to 3;30pm. $20 entry fee. There are two hangars, one with WW2 and post-war aircraft, and the second hangar displays WW1 aircraft. Most of the aircraft displayed are airworthy."
Paul Wheeler
"An AMAZING display of planes, pre and post war, all lovingly maintained.
This is a privately owned museum, and for its small size, it makes up for it in its heart and pride.
We arrived at 2.30pm, just near closing time, but the volunteers were very welcoming to us. They brought us around the 2 hangars and even explained the details of each and every plane in their display.
We loved this museum and they even had a small dress up section for small kids to dress up as a pilot for photo opportunities.
Thank you very much for the lovely afternoon!"
Fun Kwok
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ardmore Airport is located south of Auckland. Driving is the most common way, with ample parking available during events. Public transport options are limited, so consider ride-sharing or carpooling if you're not driving.
Yes, Ardmore is New Zealand's busiest general aviation airport and is well-signposted. It's a straightforward drive from Auckland city.
During major events like the Warbirds Air Show, there are designated parking areas. Arriving early is recommended to avoid queues and secure a good spot.
Ardmore is a very active general aviation airport. If you are a pilot, you can fly in, but be sure to check NOTAMs and be aware of the high traffic volume.
While public transport is not direct, some visitors opt for taxis or ride-sharing services. For major events, shuttle services might be available, so check the official Warbirds website.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open on weekends from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. However, for special airshow events, hours may vary, so it's best to check their official schedule.
Entry fees are usually around $20 for adults, with concessions for children and families. Special event tickets for airshows will have different pricing.
For major airshow events, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry and potentially get early bird discounts.
Yes, typically there are family passes and group discounts available. Check the NZ Warbirds Association website for the most current pricing and package deals.
Refund policies vary by event. It's advisable to check the terms and conditions at the time of booking, especially for outdoor airshow events which are weather-dependent.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a fantastic collection of WW1, WW2, and post-war aircraft, many of which are airworthy. Expect to see iconic planes like Mustangs, Spitfires, and more.
Many of the aircraft are airworthy and participate in flying displays during airshows. The museum also houses static displays of historical aircraft.
Absolutely! There are often interactive displays, and sometimes even a small dress-up section for kids to pose as pilots for photos.
Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a paradise for aviation photographers, with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning shots of the aircraft.
For airshows, find a good spot along the flight line. For general viewing, the cafe deck offers a great vantage point to watch planes take off and land.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe at Ardmore Airport that serves refreshments and light meals. During major events, food trucks and vendors are often present.
Picnic areas are usually available, and bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, especially for general aviation viewing. Check event-specific rules.
The cafe typically offers standard cafe fare like sandwiches, snacks, coffee, and cold drinks. It's a convenient spot for a break.
Options can vary, but most cafes offer some vegetarian choices. It's best to check the menu on the day or inquire directly.
Alcohol availability can depend on the event. For general museum visits, it's unlikely. For airshows, check event details.
📸 📸 Photography
The flight line during airshows offers dynamic action shots. For general aviation, the cafe deck provides a good overview. The museum hangars are also great for detailed shots.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of safety zones during flying displays and respect any 'no photography' signs in specific areas.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing aircraft in flight. A wider lens can be good for hangar shots. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare.
During museum visits, you can get quite close to the static displays. For flying displays, maintain a safe distance from the runway and active areas.
Drone usage is strictly regulated at airports. You will likely need special permission and adhere to strict rules, if allowed at all. Check with airport authorities beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Attending an airshow event offers the most excitement, with flying displays and sometimes even ground reenactments. The cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks, and there are usually open areas where kids can move around. Arriving early is key to managing the day with little ones, ensuring you get good viewing spots and avoid the peak rush.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & Photographers
For photographers, a telephoto lens is a must for capturing aircraft in flight. The museum volunteers are a treasure trove of information, so don't hesitate to ask them about the aircraft. Consider attending an airshow for the most dynamic flying displays and unique photo angles.
📅 Day-Trippers from Auckland
Combine a visit to the museum with a relaxed afternoon at the airport cafe, watching the constant stream of aircraft. If you're visiting during an airshow, plan your day to maximize your viewing experience, and be prepared for larger crowds and potential traffic delays on entry and exit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Warbirds in the Air
These displays are not just for show; they are a testament to the dedication of the pilots and engineers who keep these vintage aircraft flying. Events like the Warbirds Air Show are meticulously organized to showcase the capabilities of these planes, often featuring formation flying and simulated combat scenarios. It's a chance to see history come alive, with the sounds and sights that defined an era of aviation.
For the best experience, consider attending one of their major airshow events. These events draw large crowds and feature the most extensive flying programs. However, even on regular weekends, you can often see general aviation aircraft, including some warbirds, taking off and landing, providing a constant stream of aerial activity.
Exploring the Museum Hangars
The volunteers are a key part of the museum experience. They are often former pilots or aviation mechanics, brimming with knowledge and eager to share stories about each aircraft's history, specifications, and operational past. Their insights add a rich layer of context to the visual spectacle, making the visit both educational and engaging.
Many of the aircraft on display are airworthy, meaning they are not just static exhibits but are kept in flying condition. This dedication ensures that visitors get to see these historical planes not only up close but also potentially in action during special events. The museum also offers a small dress-up area for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
Ardmore Airport: A General Aviation Hub
For aviation enthusiasts, this provides a fantastic opportunity to watch planes in action. There are several vantage points, including a cafe with a deck that overlooks the runway, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments while observing the aerial ballet. This makes Ardmore a great spot for a relaxed afternoon, even if you're not attending a specific event.
The airport is also home to several flying schools and aero clubs, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. You'll see Cessnas and other training aircraft frequently, offering a glimpse into the world of flight training and private piloting. It's a place where aviation is not just a hobby but a way of life.
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