Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre — Attraction in South Island

I would never have believed that I would be overly interested in this amazing exhibition but I was spellbound. This has to be the real highlight of our trip. Sir Peter Jackson certainly knows how to make a dramatic set. Modestly tucked away its displays are interesting, informative and well laid out. 1914-18 and 1939-46 are displayed in separate buildings. There are fascinating facts and informative details supporting all the displays and a serious collection of aviation history. The models are shatteringly lifelike, the staff are delightful. Optional guided tours are available but we went alone but guides are on hand to answer any questions fully and knowledgeably. They are steeped in the aviation world themselves and clearly love their work. I couldn't recommend this day out more highly. Leave much more time than you think you'll need and don't miss the short film (8 minutes) at the end. It will take your breath away. Top off you day with a fabulous flight, very reasonably priced and worth every penny on a de Havilland Fox Moth just next door. Thank you all for a...

This is a fantastic collection of WW1 planes and the displays bring them to life very well. There are knowledgeable guides available to talk to, and plenty of information to read. Good cafe and some interesting things on sale in the shop. The reason I dropped a star was because I thought it wasn't very child friendly. They're appeared to be a cut out plane you could stand behind and pretend you were flying, but the explanations were densely written in adult language. Many of the labels were too high up and of too small a typeface to be read easily. The display cabinets were packed with exhibits but not always easily visible or legible labels. Text in foreign languages were not translated out context explained. Who knows about war bonds for example? I may have missed them, but is there a separate school education department that helps pupils enjoy their visit, or more interactive displays. The display cabinets reminded me of museums I visited when I was a child. I know this is a 20th century subject, but will it attract and capture the attention of the average 21st...

Real good yeah. Even if you're not that interested in WWI or WWII, it's still good to see, but if you are a plane enthusiast this is a MUST DO. It will be a quick walk if you just look and walk through but the little info boards are quite interesting if you read them. The price isn't crazy but if you're not sure, maybe do one first and see if you like it. We did both and it was good - the Peter Jackson displays add an extra wow factor. Watch the 8 minute movie at the WWII side...good reminder of how privileged we are in modern times. There is a souvenir shop and little deli and coffee cart - did not have anything from there but looked good. The toilets could have been a bit neater and cleaner. Staff were very friendly though and it's all wheelchair accessible. It was a pleasant way of killing time while waiting to check into our next accommodation. We went on a rainy day, but apparently you can go for a little flight too - not sure how much that...