F-22 Raptor locked in for Warbirds Over Wānaka 2026
- Publish date
- Tuesday, 13 Jan 2026, 10:31AM
We had Warbirds Over Wānaka General Manager Ed Taylor on the show today with some massive news for aviation fans. One of the world’s most impressive fighter jets is officially heading to Central Otago.
For the first time ever, the USAF F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team will be coming to New Zealand and they’ll be performing across all three days of Warbirds Over Wānaka this Easter.
A true aviation icon
Only 183 F-22 Raptors have been built since they entered service in 2005. Each aircraft is worth more than $200 million NZD, and it’s the only US-built fighter jet that’s never been sold to another country.
Ed says the Raptor is widely considered the best fighter aircraft in the world.
Why?
• Incredible stealth capabilities
• Engines that produce more thrust than any other fighter
• Ability to “supercruise” – flying at supersonic speed without afterburners
In short, it’s a beast.
Who’s flying it?
The jet will be flown at Wānaka by Captain Nick “Laz” Le Tourneau, Commander and pilot for the F-22 Raptor Demo Team, based at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia.
Not exactly your average Sunday flyer.
A huge win for Wānaka
Ed says securing the Raptor Demo Team is a major coup for the event.
“This team displays at all the major airshows in the US and at big military airshows around the world. To have them come here says a lot about how well regarded the Wānaka show is globally. This is right up there with the biggest acts we’ve ever secured in the 38 years of our event.”
Big words. Big jet.
How it’s all happening
Two Raptors will make the long journey to New Zealand and will operate out of Christchurch International Airport.
Ed gave huge credit to the Christchurch Airport team.
“This is a very special aircraft and Christchurch Airport has gone above and beyond to make sure all the Demo Team’s requirements can be met. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
When and where
Warbirds Over Wānaka
📅 Easter Weekend – April 3, 4 and 5
🎟 Tickets on sale now via Ticketek
And a heads up… Ed says tickets are already selling fast.
