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Travel bucket list idea:

Last updated: 26 June, 2023
Expert travel writer: Mark Chipperfield

Without the creative genius of Sir Peter Jackson (who donated his private collection), this would be a forgotten aerodrome with a few broken-down old planes.

But Omaka now has the world’s finest collection of WWI aircraft (most of them operational) and an astonishing display of memorabilia, including field uniforms, rare medals and captured German booty. Weta Studio’s recreation of real-life battle scenes is enthralling.

While you're there

Don goggles and experience the Marlborough wine region from the air in a vintage open-cockpit biplane; the aviation heritage centre runs 20-minute vintage joy rides from the Omaka Airfield. Or you could opt for a spin in Yakovlev Yak-3 or Avro Anson Mk.1 fighter planes.

Price from: £12
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around

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