Kaikoura Helicopters is owned and operated by GCH Aviation Group, which purchased the company in 2019.

After more than 29 years of operation, Kaikoura Helicopters continues to grow and develop as a professional tourism enterprise. Our fleet consists of 2 Robinson R44’s (3 passengers), and 1 Eurocopter AS350 BA (6 passengers). Our team of 3 pilots and 2 sales staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic to assist.

Kaikoura is world renowned for its whale watching – it also boasts some of the most spectacular scenery New Zealand has to offer. Helping you experience this is Kaikoura Helicopters, the most experienced aerial whale watching company in the world.

We can have you lifting off from our centrally located helipads and within minutes be in the spectacular environment that plays host to the magnificent Sperm Whale. From the comfort of your helicopter, experience this ultimate vantage point, viewing the entire whale from head to tail.

Our exclusive alpine flights allow you to get up close and personal with some of the highest mountains in New Zealand. Land at altitude among the stunning Kaikoura Seaward Ranges and encounter 360-degree views of this unique and rugged coastline.

We also offer adventure flights including heli-rafting, heli-biking, and hunting, charters, nationwide transfers, weddings, film and photography, gift vouchers, and all aspects of commercial helicopter work.

If you have any questions or would like to make a booking, please contact us.

GCH Aviation is based in Christchurch, New Zealand, with additional aviation operations extending through New Zealand and into the South Pacific. These include Garden City Helicopters Nelson, Garden City Helicopters Greymouth, Wellington Helicopters, Pacific Island Air Fiji and Vanuatu Helicopters, offering helicopter scenic tours, transfers, charters, and commercial helicopter services.

The Group also operates emergency air rescue and air ambulance services; Westpac Rescue Helicopter, NZCC Rescue Helicopter, Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter, and the New Zealand Flying Doctor Service. In addition, we are home to Canterbury's first full-service corporate Jet Centre, a gateway for private jets, purpose-built to service the South Island’s rapidly growing corporate aviation market. Our GCH UAV drone division offers state-of-the-art, high-resolution aerial imaging and inspection services, revolutionising business in a range of industry sectors.

GCH Aviation Group represents over three decades of exceptional aviation experience in helicopter and fixed-wing tourism, certified flight training, commercial, air rescue, and ambulance operations.

Visit gchaviation.com for more information.