This June (6 June to be exact) marks 75 years since D-Day, the allied invasion in Normandy and what would become the liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany. 

To commemorate this momentous day, Ardmore airport hosted a special New Zealand Warbirds event over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. 

Flying displays featured classic World War II fighters, such as the Spitfire and the Mustang, mock air attacks and action on the ground by military enthusiasts. Vintage aircraft from around the country flew in for the day, including NZALPA members and Air New Zealand pilots, Liz Needham and Frank Parker. 

The husband and wife duo took to the skies in opposing fighter aircraft. Liz flew the British MkVIX Spitfire, while Frank flew the German Focke-Wulf 190.

Husband and wife, Frank Parker (foreground) and Liz Needham go head to head in opposing fighter planes.