12th Dec 2014
New general manager appointed at Wanaka's Warbirds & Wheels attraction and diner
Warbirds & Wheels attraction and diner at Wanaka Airport has appointed Naomi Lindsay as general manager to expand the business with particular focus on meetings, conferences, events and increasing visitors to the museum and café.
Since the doors first opened three years ago, Warbirds & Wheels has gathered quite a following with its collection of Warbirds planes and over 30 classic cars, lovingly restored to their original glory.
Ms Lindsay joins the team with an extensive background in tourism, sales, marketing and public relations and previously worked at Southern PR Queenstown, Millbrook Resort and New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty.
“Warbirds & Wheels is such a great attraction with something for everyone; car and plane enthusiasts, art aficionados and families and kids who just want to come and grab a muffin and a fluffy in the diner,” said Ms Lindsay.
“We have multiple rooms and venues for small and large events, as well as the museum, art room, education room, boardroom and 1950s style retro diner.
“It’s a huge privilege to work alongside the directors to market the opportunities we offer and expand the business,” said Ms Lindsay.
The exhibits within the museum change regularly to ensure there’s always something new and fresh and the artwork changes annually. Regular conferences, events and launches are also held.
“One area we’re looking to grow is the events market. We hold a number here already and receive great feedback. It’s about spreading the word that we can host and cater for events up to 500 people,” she said.
Warbirds & Wheels has four rooms that can be hired for private use; the retro-style diner for 60, art-deco style boardroom which can seat up to 10, the museum hangar for up to 500 banquet style (more with outdoor marquee), and art room surrounded by exquisite New Zealand artwork which can seat up to 120 for dinner.
Warbirds & Wheels has the best restored collection of classic cars in New Zealand, including a 1934 Duesenberg Model J. The only one in the Southern Hemisphere, it was owned by Hollywood actress Carol Lombard –who was married to Clarke Gable – and is extremely rare bringing people from all over the world to see it.
“Summer is upon us and we already have some great new exhibits coming and events lined up, so watch this space,” said director Robert Duncan.
“On behalf of the directors we’re delighted to have Naomi on board to take the business to the next level.”
