This section includes a wide selection of classic and Warbird aircraft that will not fly during the show. They will, however, offer an excellent opportunity for attendees to see them up close.
Many aircraft are based here at Omaka but are often only seen from a distance flying overhead. For those aircraft based outside the region, a big part of coming to the show for some of the owners is the adventure of flying to Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters and speaking to members of the public about their incredible machines.
A highlight of Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters 2025 is sure to be the John Smith Collection. At Classic Fighters in 2023, the Mosquito, P-40, and Tiger Moth were outside on the grass, all parked together for you to view. Something we hope to do again!
First flying in December 1933, Stearman’s Model C was built as a private venture – but a production order from the United States Navy in 1935 secured the future of the big biplane and it served as a primary trainer thereafter, thousands of raw recruits getting their first taste of flying prior to transitioning onto combat machines. Powered by a number of different radial engines throughout its lengthy career, the Stearman is typically American - big, strong, easy to fly and fully aerobatic. It has been described as “…a man-sized aeroplane with all cockpit equipment of similar healthy proportions, castings and forgings all over the place. There are none of your precious little bits of pressed tin here…!”Well over 10,000 examples of the Stearman Model 75, also known by its unofficial Canadian name of ‘Kaydet,’ were built. Post WWII and with so many surplus military examples for sale, the Stearman found itself employed in a myriad of civilian flying roles, from barnstorming through to crop dusting. A large number still operate today, many earning a living offering joy rides. This lovely machine was at one time owned by well known broadcaster the late Paul Holmes and upon purchase by current owner Russell Jenkins, went through an 11 year plus rebuild, flying again in October 2021.
About Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters Omaka: The airshow is the main fundraising event for the Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum, located in Blenheim, Marlborough NZ.
