The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is inviting the public to a special fundraising luncheon celebrating the remarkable Spirit of Douglas DC-3.

Lunch with a Legend: Building Omaka's Future will be held inside the museum's Dangerous Skies exhibition on Saturday 8 August. All proceeds from the event will support the planned expansiion of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.

Guests will enjoy a welcome drink and a three-course lunch catered by Feast Merchants, while hearing the fascinating story of the Spirit of Douglas and its continuing journey around the world.

A highlight of the afternoon will be the opportunity to step onboard the aircraft. This will be the only opportunity for members of the public to go inside the Spirit of Douglas during its visit.

A remarkable aviation story

Built in 1942 as a C-53 military transport, the aircraft served in the China-Burma-India theatre during the Second World War. Its service included flying “the Hump”, the notoriously dangerous air supply route across the Himalayas between India and China.

After the war, the aircraft began a long civilian career, flying in a variety of commercial and corporate roles.

Following an extensive restoration in the United States, it was named Spirit of Douglas in honour of aviation pioneer Donald Douglas and the aircraft that helped transform passenger aviation.

The restored aircraft is now undertaking the World Cruiser Tour, an ambitious international journey following historic air routes across countries, continents and oceans.

The tour celebrates the legacy of the DC-3 and the important role it played in connecting people around the world.

Hear from the aircraft’s custodian

Guests will hear directly from the custodian of the internationally acclaimed Spirit of Douglas, New Zealand businessman Mark Stewart, and see stunning footage of the aircraft flying around the globe.

“We are delighted to bring this iconic piece of aviation history to New Zealand as part of her World Cruiser Tour, to share the incredible story of this famous aircraft with Kiwis and pay tribute to the aviation genius that was Donald Douglas,” Mark says.

The realities of operating an aircraft more than 80 years old have also become part of its story.

Following its arrival in New Zealand, the Spirit of Douglas required a major engine change in Christchurch. Engineers from JEM Aviation at Omaka were among those who helped return the aircraft to the air.

The afternoon will also feature historic memorabilia and the official Spirit of Douglas coffee table book, offering further insight into the aircraft, its restoration and the people behind its continuing journey.

Event details

Date: Saturday 8 August 2026

Time: 12.30pm

Venue: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, Blenheim

Tickets: NZ$150 per person

Places are strictly limited and bookings close at 10am on Monday 3 August so final numbers can be confirmed with the caterers.

Book your place for Lunch with a Legend: Building Omaka’s Future.

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