RNZAF to Celebrate 90 Years at Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters 2027

In 2027, the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) will celebrate its 90th anniversary of service to New Zealand, marking nine decades since its formation on 1 April 1937.
RNZAF on the runway - photo credit Gavin Conroy

Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters is proud to announce that we will be partnering with the RNZAF to commemorate this significant milestone at the 2027 Classic Fighters Airshow, with a major presence both in the air and on the ground.

Planning is already underway for the RNZAF to bring an extensive line-up of its current aircraft to Marlborough for the weekend. A dedicated flying programme is also planned for Sunday, showcasing aircraft from the past and present that have played a part in the story of New Zealand's Air Force.

Alongside the RNZAF's modern aircraft, the weekend is expected to feature aircraft from the Air Force Historic Flight of New Zealand, while Classic Fighters will contribute a substantial historic component.

A specially themed static display area is planned to bring together aircraft representing different eras of RNZAF service. We hope this will include iconic types such as the de Havilland Mosquito, P-40 Kittyhawk and A-4 Skyhawk, creating a unique opportunity to see the heritage of the RNZAF alongside the aircraft and people carrying that legacy forward today.

And there will be a very good reason to attend both days.

The Saturday and Sunday programmes are being developed to offer different experiences, with the special RNZAF anniversary flying programme planned as a feature of Sunday. So, if Classic Fighters has traditionally been a Saturday-only event for you, 2027 could be the year to make a full weekend of it.

It is still early in the planning process, and aircraft participation and programme details will be confirmed as arrangements progress. We will be sharing plenty more news over the coming weeks and months.

For now, secure your tickets and make plans to join us for what promises to be a very special commemoration of your Air Force.

Tickets and event information: classicfighters.co.nz

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