Air Force Museum of New Zealand (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Air Force Museum of New Zealand?
What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 enjoy free guided entry, scavenger hunts, free touch-screen games, coin-op plane rides and an age-5+ simulator, with level floors allowing parents to monitor play without safety worry.
Positives:
- Weather-proof fun: All exhibits are indoors, so you stay dry on rainy days.
- Free parking: Large car park outside makes it easy to unload strollers and gear.
Challenges:
- Entry fees for adults: International adults pay NZ$15 each; factor this into your budget.
- Simulator age limit: Only visitors aged 5+ can use the flight simulator.
What is Air Force Museum of New Zealand?
- A national museum dedicated to the history of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, located on the historic Wigram air base in Christchurch
- Home to more than 30 restored military aircraft alongside engines, uniforms, medals and archival records spanning a century of New Zealand military aviation
- Housed across purpose-built hangars and heritage-listed buildings, preserving the architectural legacy of the former RAF and RNZAF training base
What is so special about Air Force Museum of New Zealand for with kids?
- Explore over 28 historic military aircraft up close.
- Kids enjoy interactive games and a dedicated play area.
- Flight simulator brings aviation history to life for ages 5+.
- Indoor hangars keep families comfortable year-round.
- Contact Café offers snack breaks under real aircraft.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to see main exhibits, try interactive games, and take snack breaks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Air Force Museum of New Zealand
Self-guided tour of historic aircraft:
Walk among over 28 restored jets and bombers in large hangars.
Tip: Pick up a free map at the Welcome Desk to create a family route through key planes.
Mosquito Mission flight simulator:
Experience flying a Mosquito fighter in a realistic 5-minute simulator mission.
Tip: Book one slot per family member in advance; the youngest child under 5 cannot join.
Drop Zone & Balloon Busters games:
Play arcade-style games on ground-floor touchscreens at no extra cost.
Tip: Challenge siblings to see who can hit more targets; games reset automatically.
Kids' play area & coin-operated rides:
Let younger children color at the table or ride small coin-operated planes.
Tip: Bring NZ$1 coins for each ride and ask Café staff for extra coloring sheets.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Air Force Museum of New Zealand
- Visit at opening: Get there at 10am to explore planes before the crowds arrive.
- Join a guided tour: Sign up for the daily 45-minute tour; kids under 12 join free.
- Use the map: Use the free family-friendly map to focus on highlights and save time.
Reviews of Air Force Museum of New Zealand
Mitchell Hoeboer
It is $15NZD for entry for international guests & $5 for the tour. I still highly recommend for aerospace enthusiasts as they have many cool planes on display. Take the tour if you do come it is worth the $5 as they show you extra displays not available with your regular entry. Really cool place to visit and their restoration work is incredible.
yoyo 2wheels
Free entry, lots of parking, staff were friendly and helpful, quick snack at the cafe before we started was nice. You dont even need to be an aviation enthusiasts to come have a look here and youll easily spend a good hour or more looking around. Paid guided tour on offer but managed fine getting around on our own with the supplied map. Was hoping to see the Hercules on display but no. Gift shop ...
kj w
Just so cool. I’m not a plane need yet it’s fascinating. Well laid out lots to see, photography encouraged. Guides super friendly. Options for a guided tour 1 hr for very reasonable charge. Needs to be promoted more
Solved By Andy
A brilliant mix of history, storytelling, and hands-on experience. The aircraft displays are impressive, and the interactive exhibits make it great for all ages. Whether you’re into aviation or just curious, this place is well worth the visit — and it’s free! Friendly staff, great atmosphere, and a real hidden gem in Christchurch.
Louise
Mum joining her husband/son on a wet CHCH day … the best experience. Pay modest amount for guided tour which was well worth it. Really informative, ask questions & thoroughly enjoyable. All staff, mostly volunteers, are very welcoming. Thank you for opening my eyes in such a small amount of time … these men & woman went through so much. You won’t be disappointed in visiting. Huge place. Free
When is the best time to visit Air Force Museum of New Zealand (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Check the museum's website for special holiday programs during school breaks.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult entry (2) | NZD 30 |
| Mosquito flight simulator sessions (3) | NZD 24 |
| Coin-operated plane rides (2) | NZD 2 |
| Snacks at Contact Café | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 76 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Air Force Museum of New Zealand
Address: 45 Harvard Avenue, Wigram, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
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About Air Force Museum of New Zealand
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 371 960010 BEST nearby Activities
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