The Aviator Experience

Experience a real rush and get a taste of the sky at The Aviator Experience—a unique destination where aviation romance blends seamlessly with modern entertainment and gastronomy. Located in the cozy town of Thames, this complex offers guests a rare opportunity to combine piloting high-tech simulators with relaxing in a stylish themed restaurant.

The Aviator Experience. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

In a country like New Zealand, this establishment is rightfully considered a must-visit for all aviation enthusiasts and fans of unique leisure activities. During the day, there is a lively atmosphere with gourmet dishes being served, while in the evening, the space transforms into an elegant Italian restaurant. In 2025, the venue was honored with the prestigious Travelers' Choice award, confirming its exceptional status among tourists.

To plan your visit to The Aviator Experience, you can use the contact details provided below. It is recommended to book flight simulator sessions in advance, as they are very popular.

The main magnet of the establishment is its cutting-edge VR flight simulators. Here, you can take control of legendary World War II aircraft or sit in the cockpit of a modern jet fighter. Various scenarios are available: from peaceful scenic flights over virtual landscapes to thrilling aerial combat simulations and challenging landings on an aircraft carrier deck.

After "landing," it's worth heading to the restaurant area, where the interior is completely dedicated to an aviation theme. During the day, you can refuel with gourmet burgers, pizza, or classic Eggs Benedict. In the evening, the venue offers an immersion into the atmosphere of Italy with authentic cuisine, an extensive wine list, and signature cocktails. The chairs, reminiscent of aircraft cabin seats, add a special charm to the visit, making an ordinary dinner part of a grand aviation adventure.

The Aviator Experience is conveniently located at 705 Pollen Street, in the heart of Thames. If you are traveling from Auckland, the drive takes about an hour and a half (approximately 120 km) via the scenic State Highway 2 and then SH25, which leads to the Coromandel Peninsula.

For those who prefer public transport, there are regular bus services to the central Thames terminal. From the stop, you can easily reach the venue on foot in just a few minutes. Taxi services also operate within the town, ready to quickly deliver you to the doors of the "aviation" complex from any point in the area.

The story of this unusual place began with the dream of two enthusiasts—Craig and Anita. As passionate fans of aviation, they decided to create a space in Thames where high technology and gastronomy merge into one. Initially, the project was conceived solely as a training center with VR simulators, but it quickly grew into something more.

Over time, the owners expanded the concept by adding a full-service kitchen and a stylized interior, turning The Aviator Experience into a unique entertainment hub. The decor was enhanced with details reminiscent of the Golden Age of Aviation, making the venue a point of attraction not only for pilots but also for families with children.

A landmark moment in the venue's history was 2025, when it was honored with the Travelers' Choice award. This recognition confirmed that the bold idea of combining a fighter jet flight with an exquisite dinner resonated with thousands of travelers visiting New Zealand.

To fully enjoy everything The Aviator Experience has to offer, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to complete the briefing and take a simulator flight, and then discuss your impressions over a delicious lunch or dinner.

A standard piloting session usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes of active flight time, and visiting the restaurant area will add about another hour to your visit. If you plan to come with a large group, it's worth budgeting a bit more time so that everyone has a chance to try being an aircraft captain.

The Aviator Experience operates on a special schedule divided into daytime and evening service. From Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, they serve brunch and lunch. The evening Italian service is available from Tuesday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Please note that Monday is a day off. It is highly recommended to check the official website before your visit, as working hours may change depending on the season or private events.

The town of Thames is rich in interesting locations, and a visit to the aviation center can be perfectly combined with a stroll through historical sites or relaxing in cozy cafes. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to more deeply feel the atmosphere of this port town with its colonial architecture and hospitable residents.