At Wanaka Airport, Russian Polikarpovs practised low-level runs, Royal New Zealand Air Force Iroquois flew in, a twin-engine Catalina aeroplane refuelled, and an MX2 two-seater aerobatics aircraft rehearsed manoeuvres.
Organisers expect up to 80,000 people to attend the airshow, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
Pilot Gene De Marco, of Blenheim, has organised the transportation of five World War 1 replica aircraft for the airshow, including two German Fokker Triplanes and a Sopwith Camel, which he will fly as part of the main displays on Saturday and Sunday.
‘‘Things have been pretty busy out here with practice runs, photo sessions and also pilot training. The next few days are just such a great way to have all these vintage planes on display for the public,'' he said.
Aircraft enthusiasts and Easter visitors have begun to arrive in town, with accommodation providers booked out across the Upper Clutha.
Fine weather is forecast across the Upper Clutha region for the airshow, although strong northwesterly winds could blow. Wanaka has enjoyed some high temperatures over the past few days.
