EVENT: OMAKA WINGS & WHEELS DAY 4th February 2024

Mosquito Day Smashes Expectations

$35K raised for the upkeep of this historic De Havilland Mosquito
Pictured Above: Allison and Charles Stanfield (Mosquito Auction Winner) and Alistair Marshall, Mosquito Project Manager

The New Zealand Aviation Museum Trust (NZAMT) is delighted to announce that the Omaka Mosquito Day held on Sunday, 24 April 2022, was a resounding success, raising $35,000 net towards the upkeep of the John Smith Mosquito.

Just under 2000 ticket-holders attended the event, primarily promoted as the first public twin-engine run of the John Smith Mosquito since the 1950s. Although this historic event enjoyed top billing, the day also featured an impressive ground display of vintage and classic aircraft and cars. The $20 per adult and $10 per child ticket price included entry to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. It attracted an audience of enthusiasts and enthusiastic couples and families, all looking for a fun day out after months of covid restrictions.

Above: Exotic vehicles on display, including several E-Type Jaguars. Photo by Rachael Brown

It was a festive atmosphere made possible by the local aviation and automobile communities, food providers, music and enthusiastic volunteers. All profits have been set aside for the maintenance and associated costs, including insurance of this magnificent machine. The NZAMT plans to host more of these relaxed ‘Wings and Wheels’ style events in the future to support the continued development of the museum. Thank you to all those who attended and made this day such a success.


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