Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Air Force Museum of New Zealand, Christchurch Overview

What represents a country’s military aviation better than an Air Force Museum? The Air Force Museum of New Zealand, also known as The Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum (RNZAF), is the former curator of the national artefacts involved in the history of military aviation in New Zealand. It not only displays the collection of antiques but also treasures the different stories of men and women who try to shape the country’s aviation journey.

The museum, located in Christchurch, is one of the most happening museums in the country, with events and tours going on throughout the day. Moreover, this museum also works closely with the education department as it provides guided tours for schools and educational institutions. Additionally, the museum cafe makes it more comfortable for visitors who want to spend quality time with family and friends while learning about the efforts that go into military aviation. The Air Force Museum of New Zealand should be on your list if New Zealand history intrigues you.

History

The Air Force National Museum base at the Historical centre was first established in Wigram in 1976 but it was a small-scale venture. It was after 1891 when the official Air Force Unit, staffed by uniformed personnel was put in order.

The new building was attached to the old No.1 Hangar on the 1st of April, 1987 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the RNZAF. Subsequently, RNZAF base Wigram at No.2 Hangar was closed in 1995. Since then, the Air Force Museum has undergone rapid changes and renovations such as in 2008 when the “History Gallery” was entirely reassigned, in 2009 when free admission was enforced by the Museum Trust Board, and in 2013 when the museum underwent a new $16 million expansion, creating a new display hall and introducing new events and conferences which have continued till date.

Timings and Entry Fee

The museum is open on all business days from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Christmas Day. This museum functions throughout the year and there is no entry fee. However, charges may apply for activities in the museum.

The Museum hunt, as well as Mosquito Fight simulator, cost NZD 6 per person

Architecture

The museum is spread over 37 hectares, with a total display area of 5000 m² and workshop and storage space of 14,000 m². The entire museum consists of six buildings, professional staff of over 30, attracting over 120,000 visitors per year. The main parts of this museum include the Conference and Events Hall, Aircraft Hall, Atrium, Brevet Lounge, Morris Room, Donaldson Room and Theater.

Rules and Recommendations

Museums usually allow visitors to take pictures but not all areas permit photography. Do look out for instructions.
Large groups, schools and other educational organisations should book activities in advance.
Large bags or backpacks are not usually allowed in museums. Locker rooms are provided to visitors.
Smoking is not permitted in museums.
Food is only allowed in the designated Cafe area.

What's on

Behind the scene tours that run throughout the afternoon.
Birthday parties
Exhibitions such as 80 years in 80 stories, Wahine Toa, War in the Air, Captured, etc.
Self-guided tour of the historic former air base at Wigram
Galleries such as Horizon to Horizon, Caldwell Gallery, etc
Memorials, mainly the Memorial Alcove and the Roll of Honour that are tributes to New Zealanders who sacrificed their lives in the War.
Displays of the Johnny Checketts’ Spitfire Engine that explores the rediscovery of wartime crash site.
Activities for children as well as adults such as Mosquitos Fight Simulator, Museum Hunts, ANZAC Service Day, Holiday Programmes, AFM Kids, Hands-on experiences and other group activities.

How To Reach Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Situated on 45 Harvard Ave, Wigram, in Christchurch, New Zealand, the RNZAF museum is one of the most exciting museums in New Zealand, with events constantly taking place that engages the visitor. There is free parking available for those that choose to make that 15 minute drive down from Christchurch. Public buses 80 and 100 connect the museum to central Christchurch and bus stations on either side of Harvard avenue make it easily accessible.