Last updated July 2026
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is one of New Zealand’s standout aviation museums, located at Omaka Aerodrome on the southern edge of Blenheim. It presents one of the world’s largest collections of World War One aircraft and memorabilia on long-term loan from filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson. The two main exhibitions — Knights of the Sky (WWI) and Dangerous Skies (WWII) — combine original and replica aircraft with film-grade set design and lifelike mannequins by Wētā Workshop. The centre is open seven days a week from 9am to 4pm and is fully wheelchair accessible.
Practical Information
| Location | 14 Rosina Corlett Lane, Omaka, Blenheim — at Omaka Aerodrome |
| Distance from Blenheim CBD | Approximately 5 km (5–10 minute drive) |
| Open | Seven days, 9am to 4pm |
| Main exhibitions | Knights of the Sky (WWI) and Dangerous Skies (WWII, opened November 2016) |
| Collection source | Long-term loan from Sir Peter Jackson |
| Display design | Designed by Joe Bleakley; sets by Wingnut Films; mannequins by Wētā Workshop |
| Entry | Ticketed — see official site for current prices |
| On-site facilities | Café and gift shop |
| Accessibility | Fully wheelchair and pram accessible |
About the Museum
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre sits at Omaka Aerodrome, a small airfield on Blenheim’s southern edge. Its central feature is the Knights of the Sky exhibition, one of the world’s largest WWI aviation collections on long-term loan from Sir Peter Jackson. Jackson, a noted WWI memorabilia collector, has made his collection the backbone of the museum. The exhibition uses a mix of original aircraft, accurate replicas, and immersive set design rather than traditional static displays.
The exhibition design is by Joe Bleakley, with set building and dressing by the Wingnut Films team and lifelike mannequins by Wētā Workshop. The visual style is distinctively cinematic, with dioramas placing pilots and aircraft in carefully staged scenes that reflect historical context. This creative approach differentiates Omaka from conventional aviation museums.
The centre opened in 2006 and has grown into a major visitor attraction in the Marlborough region. Every visit supports ongoing development of the site as a world-class destination.
Dangerous Skies (WWII)
The Dangerous Skies exhibition opened in November 2016 as a second major display focused on stories from the Second World War. It uses a mix of original and replica aircraft drawn from a wider geographic and chronological range across multiple theatres. The same cinematic display approach continues, with themed sections rather than a strict chronological tour.
What to Expect on a Visit
Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a full visit to both exhibitions. The museum is laid out as a sequence of themed rooms and dioramas, guiding visitors naturally through the displays. Photography is generally permitted, though visitors should check current rules at the entrance. The on-site café offers light meals or coffee, and a gift shop provides aviation-related merchandise.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the immersive, cinematic quality of the displays and the lifelike mannequins that bring historical scenes to life. Many describe it as one of the best aviation museums they have visited, noting the high production values and the unique storytelling approach that sets it apart from traditional aircraft displays.
Reviewers often highlight the accessibility of the venue and the convenience of the on-site café for a relaxed visit. Families and history enthusiasts appreciate the detailed context provided around each aircraft and the opportunity to see rare WWI and WWII planes up close in dramatic settings.
Where to Learn More
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre — official site: current opening hours, ticket prices, special exhibitions and event information.
Wikipedia — Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: background on the museum’s establishment, collection history and the Peter Jackson loan arrangement.
NewZealand.com — Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: official tourism information including location details and visitor context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre?
At 14 Rosina Corlett Lane, Omaka, Blenheim, at Omaka Aerodrome, approximately 5 km from central Blenheim.
What are the opening hours?
Seven days a week, 9am to 4pm.
What are the two main exhibitions?
Knights of the Sky (WWI aviation) and Dangerous Skies (WWII, opened November 2016).
Whose collection is on display?
Much of the WWI collection is on long-term loan from Sir Peter Jackson.
Who designed the displays?
Joe Bleakley designed the exhibitions, with sets by the Wingnut Films team and mannequins by Wētā Workshop.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring both exhibitions.
Is there a café at the museum?
Yes, there is an on-site café suitable for light meals or coffee.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
