If you’re planning a getaway to the Wairarapa, why not elevate your experience – literally – by taking to the skies in a vintage warbird? At Hood Aerodrome in Masterton, the New Zealand Warbirds Association offers unforgettable adventure flights that blend history, adrenaline, and breathtaking scenery.
A popular choice is the open-cockpit de Havilland Tiger Moth, a 1940s biplane that lets you feel the wind in your hair as you soar over the picturesque Wairarapa countryside. For those seeking a more exhilarating ride, the North American Harvard provides a powerful, aerobatic experience in a WWII-era trainer aircraft. Whether you’re after a gentle scenic flight or loops and rolls, flights can be tailored to suit your comfort and thrill levels.
Each flight includes a pre-flight briefing and safety overview, with the option to customize your route – be it over vineyards, coastlines, or rural landscapes. Flights typically last between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the aircraft and flight profile. Minimum age requirements apply (14 years for most flights), and all flights are subject to weather conditions and aircraft availability.
Bookings can be made through the NZ Warbirds Association or directly with local operator Legend Aviation. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply looking to add a unique highlight to your holiday, a warbird flight over the Wairarapa is an experience you won’t soon forget.