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Almost from the beginning of the Aviation Age aircraft have been flying the skies in the service of their countries, performing a huge number of roles in a myriad of situations all over the world, both during peace and in time of war.
What warbirds is all about ... Service aircraft that readily come to mind are the images of First World War Camels and Fokkers, the Battle of Britain Spitfires and Messerschmitts, Lancaster, Heinkel and B-17 bombers, Mustangs, Zeros, the list goes on! Later types would include Vampires, Migs, Canberras and many, many more. In the history of military flight, these 'glamour' aircraft represent the front line of a much deeper and broader tradition of service, one that encompasses literally hundreds of types of training, transport and reconnaissance aircraft which have performed, and continue to perform, their vital duties.
In New Zealand, as in many countries the world over, service aircraft have been the introduction to flying and aviation for thousands of young men (and some women), particularly in times of war. Many such pilots have gone on to establish careers in civilian flying long after their military service so, in many ways, these aircraft form the very backbone of our country's aviation history.
The New Zealand Warbirds Association does not aim to glorify war at all, but rather, to see some of these grand old military aircraft preserved in flying condition for the enjoyment of all. Who can resist the throb of a Harvard or the sheer romance of a Tiger Moth, the roar of a Mustang or the rush of a jet?
The New Zealand Warbirds Association is an umbrella body dedicated to the restoration, preservation and operation of service aircraft in full flying condition. Nationwide, we are a vitally alive family of involved participants who provide the wide range of skills and support necessary to maintain and operate these classic aircraft.
What the organisation does ... Warbirds was originally conceived in 1978 to preserve ex-RNZAF service aircraft only but this has been expanded by the successful introduction of service aircraft from all over the world including Russian, German and Chinese types. British and American aircraft never seen in service here also figure prominently. Everything from biplanes to jet fighters!
As a Warbirds member you will have the opportunity to be involved with the restoration and running of these classic aircraft at a level that is unattainable by any other means. Put quite simply, if you have an interest in historic flight, Warbirds is for you. You can become involved as much or as little as you like, from an interested weekender to full syndicate member with a share in an aircraft.
Restoring, preserving and flying Service Aircraft ... Our members are people from every walk of life who have an interest in aviation and get pleasure from being associated with Warbirds aircraft. Some of our members have had prior involvement with the military and the aviation industry, as you would expect, but for many others Warbirds is the culmination of a lifelong interest and ambition which otherwise they would not have realised.
Warbirds has many non-flyer members who simply enjoy being both involved and around these historic aircraft. Our membership is not confined to men only with a good number of women being heavily involved in the organisation's activities. Our operations and numerous social activities cater for families and young people, as you will see at various events and air shows around the country.
You don't have to be a pilot to join ... Our hangar and club rooms at Ardmore Airport south of Auckland enable members to exchange knowledge and pool their skills in a friendly social environment and the Association serves as an important storehouse of practical help and inspiration for aircraft restoration, preservation and operation. As other branches grow around New Zealand similar facilities are developing. Warbirds is actively represented at air shows around the country where members meet and share their common interest.
Flying with Warbirds ... If you have your private pilot's license, we can assist you in obtaining the necessary rating to fly one of the sixty or so aircraft in our association, from a Tiger Moth to a DC3. The first requirement is that you belong to the particular syndicate that owns the aircraft. While we are not a 'flying school', we all keenly recognise that to remain viable in the 21st century, we need pilots with the skill, professionalism and enthusiasm to upgrade their expertise and take the challenge!
The majority of Warbirds' aircraft are syndicate owned with new syndicates being formed regularly as aircraft become available, often still in flying condition or as the subject of a major restoration by syndicate members. Shares in existing syndicates are also often available so if you are interested in aircraft ownership, syndication could be for you! Most importantly, you don't have to be a pilot to own a share and ride in a Warbirds' aircraft.
Syndicated ownership of aircraft ... Syndicate members are associated with one specific aircraft, ownership of the asset and decision making resides with the members of the syndicate. There is no restriction to the number syndicates a Warbirds member may join and some belong to several. Syndicate costs vary according to the aircraft and full, up-to-date details are available from the New Zealand Warbirds Association.
The 'Flag bearers' of New Zealand Warbirds, this precision aerobatics team has been seen at air shows right across New Zealand and Australia too! Flying ex-RNZAF Harvard trainers, this team continues to promise maximum visual impact and crowd enjoyment - never to missed!
The 'Roaring Forties' Display Team ...
New Zealand Warbirds is co-operatively associated with the Alpine Fighter collection at Wanaka and their world class 'Warbirds Over Wanaka' air show. The Organisation is in active contact with like bodies world-wide.
Associations ...
