The setting for this event, Wanaka is the most spectacular venue in the world for an Air show. Nestled on the shores of an azure blue lake amongst the mighty peaks of the Southern Alps, the natural amphitheatre created by these mountains provides a backdrop of stunning scenery.

Over 60 aircraft will attend Warbirds over Wanaka International Air show 2012. Excitement and entertainment are paramount at the show and you will see some of the most famous warbirds that helped defend freedom during four world conflicts. The flimsy big planes of World War 1, the heroes of World War 11, the fighters of Korea and the awesome jets of Vietnam are all flown in exciting scenarios that recreate history right before your eyes.

On arrival in Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Tonight enjoy dinner at the hotel and meet your fellow travellers.

Depart Christchurch and travel to The Plains Vintage Railway where you experience a ‘K’88 Steam Locomotive in work. View the informative displays and enjoy a delightful morning tea before travelling to Oamaru.

Continue to Dunedin for a visit to Speight’s Brewery for an informative and interactive tour through this working brewery and heritage centre. After a tasting session enjoy a Scottish presentation comprising of bagpipes, special Haggis Ceremony and gift, followed by a delicious three course dinner at the Ale House restaurant.

This morning enjoy a cruise along the beautiful Otago Harbour viewing many scenic highlights. At the spectacular Taiaroa Head you may see albatross, New Zealand Fur Seals and other marine mammals including up to 20 species of ocean birds all in their natural environment.

Return to the city and board the Taieri Gorge Limited for a journey through terrain and spectacular scenery only accessible by rail. On return to Dunedin’s historic Edwardian Railway Station, your coach will transfer you to the hotel.

Today travel south through the Catlins. Enjoy a walk into Nugget Point and view the various wildlife before continuing to Purakaunui for a walk into the Fall’s with time to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch. Later continue along the coast to Invercargill, home of the legendary Burt Munro, Speed Bike Racer as depicted in the movie ‘The World’s Fastest Indian’.

This morning visit Bill Richardson Truck Museum for a tour of this amazing collection. Travel via Gore to Mandeville Airfield and visit one of the best Moth collections in the world. A guided tour will showcase the extensive restoration programme and fleet of aircraft on site, with the opportunity (time and weather permitting) to take a flight in one of the impressive aircraft (optional). Next continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland.

Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch. Return to Te Anau where some free time is available. This evening you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional).

Travel to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Queenstown, a year round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu.

Today you have the choice of either a free day in Queenstown or travelling to Wanaka for the opening day of the Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow. No flying will occur today, however some practice will be happening overhead.

On the ground, a variety of Warhorse military vehicles, vintage machinery and an Aviation Trade Expo will be available to view. Today provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy these particular areas prior to the non-stop Airshow action commencing on Saturday and Sunday.

Travel to Wanaka over the next two days where Wanaka Airport will become your home as you are entertained by the world’s best display pilots flying aircraft overhead. Your ticket will gain you access to the Gold Pass Enclosure. Enjoy the ultimate in airshow luxury as you will be situated on the flight line with grandstand seating and a plush marquee where you can relax in comfort and watch the show from the best seats in the house.

Today see spectacular mountain ranges including Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight over the Southern Alps before arriving at your overnight accommodation.

View the brilliant turquoise water of Lake Tekapo, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before continuing to Christchurch. On arrival visit the Air Force Museum famous for its collection of classic aeroplanes, artefacts and informative audio visual presentations. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner with your new friends.

Your tour concludes this morning.