1 / 3Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
📍 Omaka, Marlborough
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre on Aerodrome Road, Omaka (near Blenheim) is an aviation museum with WW1 and WW2 aircraft displayed in immersive Wētā Workshop-designed dioramas. World-class storytelling around the aircraft and the people who flew them.
This aircraft museum had a very theatrical feel to it, once inside. The lighting and the other elements that were created around the aircraft to give you the feeling of reality back in the time, it was impressive. Not every aircraft was an original but I felt like I was in a movie. Also, the displays of uniforms and metals and stories of the pilots who are quite fascinating. As an aviator myself, I will enjoy the experience.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with kids 8+, teens, and adults with an interest in history or aviation. Reviewers consistently call out the Wētā Workshop dioramas as transforming the experience from a typical aviation museum into something theatrical. Pairs well with Marlborough wineries for a longer day.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →2,331 Google reviews
Capt. Bill
a month ago
“This aircraft museum had a very theatrical feel to it, once inside. The lighting and the other elements that were created around the aircraft to give you the feeling of reality back in the time, it was impressive. Not every aircraft was an original but I felt like I was in a movie. Also, the displays of uniforms and metals and stories of the pilots who are quite fascinating. As an aviator myself, I will enjoy the experience.”
Cherise Brand
2 months ago
“Absolutely incredible. A wonderful mix of aviation and war history beautifully crafted into a visual masterpiece. As with anything weta workshop has a had in the detail was immaculate with plenty of guides to share more knowledge if you want it. We spent around 4 hours total in both the WWI and WWII exhibitions, so many facts and information to be read. Highly recommended and visit.”
Rebecca Ibbotson
3 weeks ago
“Found ourselves looking for something to do on a rainy afternoon and so glad we came. The exhibitions are fascinating, the planes, the mannequins, the artefacts, it’s all very impressive. We were pleasantly surprised and would highly recommend. The WWII exhibition has an immersive video in it too which was highly engaging.”
Jessica M
4 weeks ago
“We went at opening to both the WWI and WWII exhibits and we were blown away by them. We spent about 3 hours there and loved every minute of it. We even saw a few of the planes start up outside. If you’re in the area, definitely stop by.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre at Omaka Aerodrome (near Blenheim) is one of NZ's most acclaimed aviation museums. The collection covers WW1 and WW2 aircraft, displayed in immersive theatrical dioramas designed by Wētā Workshop — bringing the aircraft and their stories to life. Marlborough's leading visitor attraction, with shop, cafe, and rotating exhibitions.
