Royal Open Cockpit – C-47 Dakota

NOW SOLD OUT | Celebrate the King’s Birthday on Monday 2 June with a behind-the-scenes tour of our most royal of aircraft, the C-47 Dakota.

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Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth flew on the VIP transporter during her 1953-54 tour of New Zealand, and it has been preserved as it was 70 years ago when Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh travelled aboard it in style.

You’ll be able to climb up the red carpet and go aboard for a half hour tour of this fascinating time piece, with a full commentary by our guides who flew Dakotas.

The tour includes a look in the cockpit, which has been perfectly preserved as it was when the aircraft last flew.

This is a rare chance to see inside our Dakota, and perfect for the holiday weekend.

Terms & Conditions

Adults $50, children under 16 years of age free.

Each session is limited to four people because of space consideration.

All children must be accompanied by at least one adult on a paid-for ticket.

Accessibility: The aircraft is accessed via stairs, space is limited and the floor is sloping. This tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues.

Supervision: The aircraft is 80 years old and has been carefully conserved, so we ask that visitors respect it and that children are closely supervised.