PremiumJohn WeekesSenior Business Reporter·NZ Herald·7 Sep, 2026 07:07 AM4 mins to read‌A Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft. Photo / Cpl Craig Barrett, RAAFA Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft. Photo / Cpl Craig Barrett, RAAFThey are unusual and possibly spectacular visitors.But what’s the significance of the Australian F-35 stealth fighters coming to New Zealand this week?RNZAF (Royal New Zealand Air Force) Base Ohakea in the Manawatū will host two of the Australian combat aircraft.

The joint training exercises with Australia will include