Our People
Toby has over 10 years experience as a commercial helicopter pilot and has flown all over the world on a wide variety of operations. Toby is a third generation pilot and continues the Reid family's long standing tradition of operating helicopters in the Nelson region.
Rachael has 6 years experience as a commercial helicopter pilot and acts as the companies general manager. Alongside husband Toby she manages the day to day running of the company. Rachael has a background in the tourism industry and shares the family's passion for aviation.
Bill began flying in 1973 and was involved with live venison recovery, then on to ventures in Hong Kong, England & Papua New Guinea. He started his own company with wife Robyn in 1983. They ran this business for over 20 years while building a reputation second to none. He is progressing with his Avro Anson project.
CLICK HERE to check out the latest video clip on youtube.com of the Anson's first taxi on both engines!
Lloyd has an extensive background in aviation as a gyrocopter flight instructor & aviation enthusiast. Lloyd brings to the company his experience and knowledge of industrial engineering and helps the company to provide their remote engineering services. He also supports the company's portable "Heli Digger".
Our Fleet
The Eurocopter AS350FX2 'Squirrel' is capable of carrying up to 6 passengers and an external load of 1000kg. We have a 1200lt fuel and support trailer, fire bucket, concrete buckets, and all lifting support equipment. The FX2 has a greater lifting capacity than a B2 with less fuel burn making it much more environmentally friendly.
The MD "Notar" is known as the quietest and safest helicopter in the world as it has no tail rotor. A key advantage is the added safety when crew are working around the helicopter on the ground. The Notar can take up to 4 passengers with a max payload of 500kg and it has a cargo pod which still allows the use of a cargo hook.
The Robinson R44 II is capable of carrying up to 3 passengers. We have a fuel trailer, all lifting support equipment and cargo pods available. The R44 is the perfect machine for passenger transport and general survey work with very efficient operating costs.
The Robinson R22 is used predominantly for flight training but is also available for single passenger air transport operations. The R22 is a useful tool for pest control and stock mustering. Capable of an external load of 150kg with the option of an external cargo pod for bulky equipment.
In memory of John Reid “Mr. Helicopter”
John is the first generation of Reid helicopter pilots. He obtained his license at the Canterbury aero club in 1937 and then went on to fly the highest performance fighter plane of WW2, the Hawker Tempest.
After working as a helicopter test pilot for British European Airways John returned to New Zealand to begin Helicopters New Zealand in 1955. He ran the company to its success until 1983. John passed away in 2005 but his legacy lives on.
