Warbird flying into Wanganui

A special piece of war memorabilia will visit Wanganui to mark Battle of Britain day.

The Supermarine Spitfire, restored by Marton businessman Brendon Deere, will touch down at Wanganui airport about 10.30am on September 18 as part of the commemoration.

Mr Deere said the plane, piloted by Squadron Leader Sean Perrett from Ohakea, would fly over Aramoho cemetery, then follow the Whanganui River downstream before landing at the city's airport.

But he said the visit was weather dependent.

"You'll recall we had to cancel the Anzac Day visit because of the bad weather," he said.

"The Spitfire will provide a full display over the airport at 10.30am, similar to the displays seen at airshows like Warbirds over Wanaka.

"So there'll be plenty of noise," Mr Deere said.

After the aerial display, the Spitfire will land and be on the ground for about an hour before returning to Ohakea.

Also at the airport will be another of Mr Deere's planes, a Harvard 37, which is expected to land about 9.30am.

Arrangements are well in hand to provide close-up viewing for the public, just as they were when the Spitfire last visited, on Anzac Day in 2009.

At the same time as the Spitfire's visit, the Wanganui Aero Club is holding an open day.

A gold coin donation will get you entry to see the aerial display, as well as ground access to view the planes on the tarmac.

Andrew Mercer, the club's chief flying instructor, said they would also use the day as a time to launch their Learn to Fly scholarship.

"We're giving away $10,000 worth of flying lessons to our winners," Mr Mercer said.

"People interested can register on the day and we'll then run a selection process over the next few weeks to distribute the awards," he said.

Mr Mercer said the club's own aircraft would also be on display. Club members and pilots would be on hand to discuss flying and learning to fly.

They will also run a barbecue throughout the day, as well as raffles for free flying lessons.