Peter Jackson's collection of WWI Fighter Aircraft
Step into a World of Heroic Tales
Imagine yourself transported back in time, surrounded by the roar of engines and the gleaming metal of iconic flying machines that once soared through the skies during the Great War.
This experience awaits you at the Vintage Aviator, just a 1 ½ hour drive northeast of Wellington Airport in Masterton. Within the Hood Aerodrome lies an extraordinary exhibition—Peter Jackson's WW1 Fighter Aircraft display.
Renowned film director Peter Jackson, is passionate about aviation and has poured his heart into curating New Zealand's most prestigious flying machine museum. From the meticulously restored British SE5a to the German Fokker Dr.1 Triplanes, each aircraft shows the indomitable spirit of those who took to the skies during the world's first global conflict.
Experience the Craftsmanship of the Great War Era
The Vintage Aviator is a New Zealand Civil Aviation-approved aircraft restoration and manufacturing company. The crew builds WW1 aircraft, engines, and propellers to the same exacting standards they were originally made to over 90 years ago. They create airworthy and static aircraft for museum display and private collections, with engineers maintaining and operating the WW1 aircraft owned by the 1914-18 Aviation Heritage Trust.
Immerse Yourself in Aviation History
At the Hood Aerodrome, the Fighter Collection can be viewed inside the showcase hangar of the Old Stick & Rudder Company, alongside an impressive collection of WWII Fighters and Trainer Aircraft. This national collection of vintage flying machines and rare memorabilia also includes artefacts and personal items from World War I aviators.
The Latest Additions to the Peter Jackson Plane Collection
The Vintage Aviators newest Collection features:
- The British SE5a (Scout Experimental) and the recently test flown and beautifully built Sopwith Triplane.
- The original and still airworthy WWI Bristol F2.B Fighter, alongside German Fokker Dr.1 Triplanes, Fokker D.IV and Pfalz D.III adversaries.
- Original 1917 and 1916 Rotary engines power the air show crowd favourite Sopwith F.1 Camel and the little French Nieuport XI respectively.
- Assisted by one of our many volunteers, visitors may have their photographs taken inside the cockpit of the Curtiss Helldiver, built specifically for and used in the 2005 movie ‘King Kong.
Plan Your Visit
The museum is open on weekends from November to April, 10:00 am—4:00 pm, and by appointment for groups of over 10 people. Collections can be seen in action on any weekend throughout the summer season. However, flying displays are weather-dependent and not guaranteed.
Guided Tours: Uncover the Secrets of WWI Aviation
Guided tours operate at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from November to April, providing a real insight into these incredible flying machines. Most have viewing platforms, allowing you to see inside the cockpits and imagine what flying one must have been like.
Start Your Adventure with Omega Rental Cars
Before you step back in time through aviation history, hire a car from Omega Rental Cars in Wellington. With a wide range of reliable vehicles, you'll travel in comfort and style to the Vintage Aviator in Masterton. Book your rental car today and prepare to be amazed by Peter Jackson's awe-inspiring collection of WWI and WWII fighter aircraft!
