No. 40 Squadron will farewell the C-130H Hercules, a mainstay of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) for nearly 60 years, with a series of flypasts over the North and South Islands on February 3 and 4, 2025.

The aircraft, often referred to as the workhorse of the skies, has played a vital role in New Zealand’s defence and humanitarian missions since it was introduced to service in 1965.

The retirement of the Hercules marks the end of an era as the RNZAF transitions to a new fleet of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, which offer greater efficiency, advanced avionics, and improved cargo capabilities.

For decades, the C-130H Hercules has been at the forefront of New Zealand’s military and disaster relief operations.

The aircraft has been instrumental in humanitarian aid missions, search and rescue efforts, and peacekeeping deployments across the Pacific, Antarctica, and beyond.

From delivering emergency supplies in the wake of cyclones and earthquakes to supporting defence operations in the Middle East, the Hercules has earned a reputation for reliability and versatility.

The decision to replace the C-130H with modern C-130J Super Hercules was made in response to increasing maintenance challenges and the need for improved performance.

The first of the new aircraft is expected to arrive in New Zealand later in 2025.

To mark the retirement, the Hercules will conduct a final tour of New Zealand skies, with flypasts over major cities and regional towns.

Monday, 3 February  North Island west coast and South Island

The flypast will begin in Whenuapai, Auckland, before making its way down the North Island’s west coast, crossing into the South Island and finishing in Invercargill.

Key locations include:

Auckland City (12:52 PM)

New Plymouth (1:37 PM)

Whanganui (2:08 PM)

Palmerston North (2:19 PM)

Nelson (2:59 PM)

Westport (3:23 PM)

Greymouth (3:40 PM)

Queenstown (4:55 PM)

Invercargill (landing at 5:35 PM)

Tuesday, 4 February  South Island and Wellington

On its final day of flights, the Hercules will take off from Invercargill, pass over Dunedin, Oamaru, Christchurch, and finish with a final approach into Woodbourne.

Key locations include:

Dunedin City (11:23 AM)

Christchurch City (12:25 PM)

Wellington City (1:32 PM)

Woodbourne (landing at 1:44 PM)

All timings are subject to change based on weather conditions, air traffic control requirements, and operational factors.