Events at Classic Flyers Museum, Tauranga

About Classic Flyers Museum

Classic Flyers NZ is a unique aviation museum and event venue at 9 Jean Batten Drive (Tauranga Airport) in Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty (www.aviationmuseum.eu) (www.classicflyersnz.com). Founded in 2005 by the Bay of Plenty Classic Aircraft Trust – a charity of local aviation enthusiasts – its mission is to preserve Aotearoa’s aviation heritage (www.classicflyersnz.com) (www.aviationmuseum.eu). Far from a static display, Classic Flyers is a “living museum” where many heritage aircraft still fly in and out on the adjacent runway. Its grand opening on 28 May 2005 was celebrated with an air show and fly-past (www.classicflyersnz.com). Inside, three purpose-built WWII-style hangars (the “Legacy Jet Centre” and two additional aircraft hangars) house an extensive collection of over 26 classic planes, trainers and helicopters – roughly 70% of which are kept airworthy (www.aviationmuseum.eu) (www.ticketfairy.com). These exhibit aircraft, together with antique engine displays and aviation memorabilia, make Classic Flyers a hands-on piece of living history, blending real warbirds (like a Curtiss P-40 Kittyhawk replica) with civilian types.

The tall, exposed-beam hangar roof (about 6 m high) gives the interior a vast, open feel and accommodates large lighting rigs and effects (www.sharedspace.co.nz) (www.ticketfairy.com). This open layout – combined with the collection – creates the venue’s signature atmosphere. The first or “main” hangar contains the AvGas café, museum shop and visitor centre, where knowledgeable volunteer guides offer tours. Beyond that are two additional large hangars for flying aircraft and restoration projects (for example the ongoing Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress restoration (www.sunlive.co.nz)). Outside on the apron, rare aircraft like a de Havilland Heron are displayed – and visitors can climb inside this former NAC plane (www.ticketfairy.com). All told, the hangars can host roughly 500 seated guests or up to 1,000 standing (cocktail-style) at events (www.sharedspace.co.nz) (djentertainment.co.nz). As NZ’s only airport-adjacent warbird museum, Classic Flyers plays a special role in preserving and celebrating the Bay of Plenty’s aviation legacy (www.aviationmuseum.eu) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Events and Programming

Classic Flyers’ hangars are used year-round for a wide variety of events. Its headline annual event is “Aero Day” – a summer air show on or around Wellington Anniversary weekend each January. On Aero Day conduits from historic aircraft perform formation and aerobatic displays over the field. For example, Aero Day 2024 featured warbird formation teams (NZ’s Roaring Forties Harvards, Yak 52s) and visiting fighters like a P-51 Mustang, Spitfire and Grumman Avenger (oceaniaaviationinsider.com). In January 2025 the second annual Aero Day was held, again with flying displays of Corsairs, trainers and vintage Jets (including NZ’s only flying FG-1D Corsair, NZ5648) (oceaniaaviationinsider.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). These events typically run from mid-morning to mid-afternoon and draw families for static displays, flight demonstrations and ground-run “engine blast” shows. During Aero Day there are adventure scenic flights (e.g. in Air Chathams’ DC-3) and food trucks – though no outside alcohol except what’s sold on site (oceaniaaviationinsider.com) (www.classicflyersnz.com).

Outside of Aero Day, the venue hosts many open-day and touring events. Monthly or quarterly “Open Day” shows allow the public to see warbirds start up, and school-holiday programs keep the museum active (for example, winter holidays see daily family activities like aviation-themed games and fire-truck rides (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.sunlive.co.nz)). Classic Flyers also regularly participates in the Tauranga airshow circuit every other year (www.ticketfairy.com). Beyond aviation themes, the expansive hangar space is treated as a “blank canvas” for other functions. Local businesses use it for conferences, tech expos and product launches (www.ticketfairy.com). It’s licensed for weddings, school balls and parties – even offering a movable stage (9 m×6 m) and built-in AV facilities (www.sharedspace.co.nz). Occasionally themed entertainment nights (past examples include a ’60s “Hurricane Party” and comedy shows) are held, although loud music concerts are rare. Classic car launches, veterans’ reunions (e.g. 75 Squadron RAF/NZ reunions) and charity galas are common community events here (www.ticketfairy.com). On its 15th anniversary in 2021, Classic Flyers organised a large open day with engine runs and family activities (www.sunlive.co.nz) (www.sunlive.co.nz), underscoring its role as a community hub.

Tickets and Booking

Every day admission tickets for the museum’s core aviation exhibits can be purchased on-site at the AvGas Café/gift-shop entrance or online in advance. Standard entry fees (as of 2024) are roughly NZ$17.50 for adults, $10 for children (ages 6–15), with under-5s free (www.classicflyersnz.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Seniors and students pay around $12.50, and there’s a family pass (2 adults + up to 3 kids) for about $45 (www.classicflyersnz.com). Members of the public may also find Classic Flyers on discount booking platforms (e.g. BookMe). For special events (like Aero Day and anniversary open days), tickets are usually sold through the Classic Flyers website and authorised outlets; popular shows often sell out, so it’s wise to pre-book. In recent years Aero Day tickets went on sale via online presales and gate sales started (gates opened 9:30am on the day) (www.classicflyersnz.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). If buying day-of, bring cash as food vendors may only take cards for drinks and snacks (www.classicflyersnz.com).

Groups and parties typically book in advance through the Classic Flyers office. Tour groups, school trips or families of 10+ can arrange special rates (for example, seniors/groups visit for ~$10pp when booked as a group (www.classicflyersnz.com)). Private event organisers negotiate hire packages that often include on-site catering, staging and basic AV. (The venue’s blank interior and fixed stage make it a convenient one-stop option.) In any case, contact the Classic Flyers team early to reserve dates and discuss requirements, since large bookings are carefully scheduled around public openings and flying activities.

Seating and Layout

Classic Flyers does not have fixed theatre seating. Instead, events are staged in a vast open-floor hangar environment. For seated events (weddings, presentations, conference talks), rows of chairs or banquet tables are brought in front of the stage; for concerts or informal gatherings, the floor can be general admission standing. The main hangar interior can comfortably fit about 500 seated or some 1,000 standing (www.sharedspace.co.nz) (djentertainment.co.nz). Elevated seating or ‘VIP’ sections are not built-in, but event organisers often reserve floor-front or roped-off lounge areas for special guests. Sightlines are generally excellent — the hangar has few interior supports to block view — although acoustically the high metal ceiling can cause echoes, so sound setups tend to be powerful. Outdoor airshow events are best watched from the museum apron or perimeter fence (close to taxiways), whereas indoor spectators simply position themselves nearest the stage or cockpit display of interest. Families with kids often head to the “Torpedo Park” corner for play while staying close enough to hear announcements. Wheelchair users can move freely on the flat hangar floor and onsite wheelchair access ramps are available; much of the museum is “mostly wheelchair-friendly” with even a spare wheelchair on hand (www.classicflyersnz.com).

Getting There and Parking

The Classic Flyers Museum is located at 9 Jean Batten Drive, Mount Maunganui, at the entrance to Tauranga Airport. If driving, take the SH2 Mount Maunganui Airport exit and follow signs to Tauranga Airport/Hangars. The museum is tucked behind the Bunnings warehouse on Jean Batten Drive (www.classicflyersnz.com). There is ample free parking at the venue – over 100 spaces on-site (www.sharedspace.co.nz) – including room for coaches and large vehicles. During major events like Aero Day extra parking may spill into the airport’s adjoining lots, with shuttle carts used at peak times.

Public transport to this part of town is limited: Baybus city routes serve Tauranga Airport (Jean Batten Drive area) from the city center about every 30–60 minutes, but schedules vary. The nearest stop is “Tauranga Airport” (for example on Route 25/225 towards Mount Maunganui). From the stop it’s a short 5–10 minute walk south along the airport terminal or via cycle path. Taxis and rideshares can drop off right at the museum gates – there is a pull-in turnaround in front of the AvGas Café entrance. Cyclists can ride in via the airport access road (and bike racks may be available). For those unfamiliar with Tauranga, note that Jean Batten Drive is off Fusilier Drive (opposite McDonald’s) and near the Rangitira complex. From the city centre plan roughly 15–20 minutes by car.

Inside the Venue

Upon arrival, visitors enter through the AvGas Café and gift shop in the main hangar. There is usually staff or volunteers to sell tickets and answer questions. The museum atmosphere is casual and interactive – families often wander directly onto the hangar floor to see the exhibits. During events there may be bag checks or metal detectors at the gate (especially for large airshow crowds). Inside, the museum hangar is large and mostly open-plan. Exhibits line the walls and center floor; clearly marked walkways guide a self-paced tour. Docent volunteers regularly give informal talks next to aircraft displays. Visitors can expect friendly Kiwis in World War II-style uniforms, ready to explain an engine or cockpit.

The AvGas Café serves as the main food venue. It offers casual counter-service meals – think burgers, coffee, pies and light lunches – all with an aviation theme (cockpits for seats, runway-striped floor tiles, etc.). During special events there are usually extra food stalls and beverage vendors in the parking apron. Classic Flyers itself has a bar onsite (the AvGas bar inside the venue), so bringing alcohol is generally not permitted (www.classicflyersnz.com). Gift-shop merchandise (model planes, books, apparel) is displayed at the entrance and perimeter of the main hangar. All restrooms are on-site (usually located beside the café and new Adventure Flights office) and are wheelchair-accessible. Wi-Fi is not openly provided as far as is typical, but cell reception is generally fair inside the hangar. Coat checks or cloakrooms are not permanent fixtures, but for hired events the venue can arrange temporary coat-check areas.

Nearby Amenities

The museum is near several modest amenities but for full dining and accommodation your best bet is nearby Mount Maunganui or Tauranga. On-site is the AvGas Café (10am–4pm daily) and a small kiosk during events. A short drive (3–5 minutes) away there are several fast-food options in the Airport Gateway area (for example, BurgerFuel, Subway, Z Pizza, etc.). For pre- or post-event meals, head into Mount Maunganui village (about 5–10 min south by car) where dozens of cafes, fish-and-chip shops and restaurants line The Strand and Spring St. Popular nearby eateries include Edgewater Café, Holy Grill, and many seafood and burger joints that locals frequent. Tauranga’s city centre is ~15 min drive (7 km north) and offers all typical city services.

As for lodging, tour groups often book one of the dozen or so motels around SH2/Mount Maunganui Road. Notable options within a few minutes’ drive are the Airport Village hotels (Rendezvous on Chris Jansen Drive), the oceanfront Baywatch Motor Inn in Bethlehem, or boutique motels like Bay Beach on Marine Parade. In Mount Maunganui itself there are beachfront hotels (Oceanz, Anchor) for a seaside stay. It’s wise to book early if you have an event in the evening or need to stay overnight.

What Makes This Venue Special

Classic Flyers stands out for its blend of historic ambience and practical event space. Architecturally it evokes WWII aircraft hangars, with riveted steel beams and large roller doors onto the apron. Unlike a typical museum, many of the aircraft here actually fly – visitors can hear real fighter planes taxiing or taking off just beyond the wall. Its setting on an active airfield means you might see rescue choppers, parachute jumps or commercial flights overhead while exploring vintage DC-3s and Sabres below. Culturally, the museum embodies Kiwi “do-it-yourself” spirit: it was entirely funded and built by volunteers, and over 120 volunteers still maintain and operate the site (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.classicflyersnz.com). All profits go back into preservation, so every ticket supports heritage.

Special architectural features – like the golden-painted Vampire jet fuselage (recently donated by the Air Force and mounted on a plinth) – make memorable photo ops. The open hangar allows spectacular stage lighting or pyrotechnics in events, which is rare among inland NZ venues. Over the years, legendary moments have included inaugural airshows by historic display teams and visits from renowned aircraft (Biggin Hill Trust’s Spitfires and Mustangs have flown here (oceaniaaviationinsider.com)). Local traditions like the Aerophilately (air label stamping) and the Torpedo Park (giant bouncy playground children’s area (www.sunlive.co.nz)) add to the culture – it’s one of very few places where grandparents and grandkids can watch fighters and then immediately play in a mini-language-themed playground.

Both visitors and pilots appreciate the fun, nostalgic atmosphere. Enthusiasts love the chance to climb into cockpits or sit in the old Dakotas, while casual visitors enjoy the café’s novelty decor. It’s a hands-on history lesson – kids can wear flight goggles, outdoorsy families picnic by parked warbirds, and WWII buffs browse the enormous parts archive. This combination of dynamic displays (with engine runs and flight commotion) plus static exhibits makes Classic Flyers feel more like stepping onto a live film set than a quiet gallery. That unique vibe – of seeing “real history” that still breathes – is what keeps people returning year after year (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.sunlive.co.nz).

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The venue is mostly wheelchair-friendly (www.classicflyersnz.com). Ramps and flat floors give access to exhibits and the café; accessible toilets are onsite. Guide dogs and service animals are permitted, but other pets are not allowed by Aerodrome regulations (even on airport land). Staff can loan out a wheelchair if needed.

What to Bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes (you’ll walk around hangars and possibly outdoors). For outdoor airshow days bring a hat, sunscreen and maybe ear protection for small children (engine runs can be loud). Cameras and phones are welcome for personal photos (the entire hangar museum is very “photo-friendly”); note only drones are banned for safety. If attending a ticketed event, bringing cash is advisable – there are no on-site ATMs and some vendors may only do EFTPOS (www.classicflyersnz.com). During wet weather, rain jackets help if part of the event is outside (the space is mostly under cover, but some exhibits are outside).

Common Mistakes: Don’t confuse this with the small aviation museum at Rotorua or the city museum – Classic Flyers is all about flying era aircraft and gear. Double-check event start times (many family events kick off early). If visiting on an open day, arrive around opening time (10 am) to see engine startups and sample a coffee in the café before it gets busy. For public events like Aero Day, pre-purchasing tickets is very smart (past years opened gates promptly but sold out late-morning (www.ticketfairy.com)).

Age and Group Tips: The museum is family-friendly – school-age children especially enjoy climbing in cockpits and checking out the big planes. Under-5s enter free. There is no strict dress code – everyone from shorts to suits is seen. Groups should book ahead for tours or hire, as the site does limit numbers for guided visits. If you’re doing a birthday party or school trip, ask about custom packages (cake and museum tours are popular add-ons).

Policies to Know: Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas (not in the hangars). Outside alcohol or large coolers are prohibited – there’s an on-site bar (AvGas Café & Bar) for drinks (www.classicflyersnz.com). No drones or model aircraft may be flown on site for safety reasons. Photography is allowed but stalk around aircraft carefully, and please obey any no-touch signs on fragile exhibits.

Insider Knowledge: On a regular museum visit, ask the volunteers about the “legacy trust” sponsorship – it’s why one hangar is named the Legacy Jet Centre and houses restored jets like the famed Aermacchi MB-339 (kids.kiddle.co). Also, don’t miss the tiny archive room near the café (old logbooks and uniforms are stored there). If you’re there around noon, try the café’s “flight meal” special – it’s a popular lunch deal. Lastly, if a flight day is arraigned for private bookings, parking may shift to the airport long-term car park down the road (you’ll see signage). In short, plan a few hours for your visit – time flies when the planes roar!

Frequently Asked Questions