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Wigram Air Force Museum Christchurch, New Zealand:

Welcome to the Air Force Museum Christchurch, one of New Zealand's premier tourist attractions!

Let one of Christchurch's must see visitor attractions take you on a unique journey of discovery and adventure! The Air Force Museum is a great day out for all the family with over 28 amazing aircraft and fun, hands-on displays. Their exhibitions will capture your imagination and their free, guided tours take you exploring behind the scenes of their fascinating restoration projects.

View of main aircraft hall - click to enlarge.

Kids and teachers love the unique education programmes and as Christchurch's largest fully themed functions venue the Air Force Museum has played host to The President of the United States, Bill Clinton. Make sure you try out the Mosquito Flight Simulator.

Whether you live locally or are visiting Christchurch for the first time, are mad about aviation or simply want a great day out, the Air Force Museum has something for you.

History:

The airfield at Wigram was originally the home of the Canterbury Aviation Company, a private flying school founded by Sir Henry Wigram in 1916. As New Zealand had no air force at that time, the company trained pilots for service with British air forces during World War One. In 1923 the New Zealand Government purchased the land and assets of the company as the base for it's newly formed air force, and renamed it "Wigram" in honour of it's founder. Until it was closed in 1995, Wigram was the main training base for the Royal New Zealand Air Force pilot trainees, navigators and other aircrews as well as a myriad of ground trades. To commemorate the history of the RNZAF, the Air Force Museum was opened at Wigram, in 1987.

Restoration:

Christchurch's world-class Air Force Museum has 28 fully restored aircraft imaginatively displayed with many more undergoing restoration. From the early pioneers to modern times the four ages of flight are represented at the Museum, displayed to amaze and enthrall.

At the Air Force Museum you can explore behind the scenes of the current restoration projects on a free guided tour.

Where to find the Museum:

The Air Force Museum is close and convenient, located just 15 minutes drive from Christchurch city centre with free parking for 200 cars and plenty of space for motor homes and buses.

Those without their own transport can visit the Museum easily, by bus from the central city Bus Exchange or by "Sunshine Shuttle".

Follow the Main South Road towards Hornby and look for the airplane on your left. Turn left at the plane into Harvard Avenue and follow signs 100m to the Museum.