An impressive aerobatic display will brighten up the skies above the Waitangi Day Community Fair this Thursday as the event takes hold on the beachfront for the second year running.

Organiser Buddy Mikaere says the Tauranga Maori Business Association is pleased to organise the event again, with family-focussed Waitangi Day activities for all to enjoy on 'our national day”.

The WWII Russian Yak will take to the skies over Tauranga this Waitangi Day.

The event, on February 6, will again double as a fundraiser for Papamoa Surf Lifesaving Club with money raised going towards supporting its youth programmes.

'The club does a great job for the Papamoa community,” says Buddy. 'But [it] took a big hit in funding support because of the Rena disaster.

'This is one way that we, as a community, can help but also say thanks to the club for the safety services it provides; and for its youth programmes with their focus on the positive development of our young people.”

During the afternoon there will be aerobatic displays from two North American Harvard aircraft from the NZ Warbirds Association base at Ardmore and a Yak 3 Russian World War 2 fighter from Omaka in Blenheim. The air displays will start at 2pm with aircrafts in the air for 10 minutes each time.

Air show organiser Warren Dwight believes this will be the country's first aerobatic display performed on Waitangi Day; and he thanks Andrew Gormlie from Classic Flyers for co-ordinating the spectacle.

Buddy is particularly pleased with support from businesses within the community for their sponsorship and services towards the event.

'Coast Papamoa is providing the fair site and free parking off Coast Boulevard, while road contractors Fulton Hogan are looking after traffic management – something that is particularly important along busy Papamoa Beach Rd,” says Buddy. St John will also be present for any first aid requirements.

Others are providing prizes for a big list of fundraising raffles, which include chainsaws, water blasters, a stand up paddle board and expensive surf casting gear.

Five local bands will provide live entertainment along with popular Zumba outfit Rhythmz Dance Company. There will also be a wide range of stalls, drinks and food available.

Children's activities include a sand sculpture contest, treasure hunt and boogie board race and there will also be a prize for the person judged to be wearing the 'loudest” shirt.

'We have had tremendous support again from local iwi Ngaiterangi; and chairman Charlie Tawhiao will open proceedings on the day, along with Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby,” says Buddy.

Starting 11am on February 6, Buddy advises fair-goers should come early; bring something to sit on and a picnic lunch. Wearing a hat is also advised and the Cancer Society will be supplying sun block.

Gate entry to the Waitangi Day Community Fair is a gold coin donation or koha.