Be inspired with our exciting range of Fiordland and Aoraki/MtCook scenic flight options. From Milford Sound to Mount Titiroa and the Aoraki Glacier, our experiences read like a ‘Greatest Hits’ of the Southern Lakes area. We can also tailor-make flights to suit – please get in touch to discuss. All our tours & flights are weather permitting.
We’re proud to have provided quality helicopter services in the Fiordland region for more than 40 years. As a family owned and operated business, every team member here at Southern Lakes Helicopters is genuinely passionate about what we do.
Our founder, Sir Richard Hayes, developed his love for aviation in the ‘70s when he first learned to fly planes in Dunedin. From there on, he quickly expanded his skills to flying helicopters and started a job in the deer recovery business across the South Island of Aotearoa. He worked closely with Sir Tim Wallace and the Alpine Group and was positioned in Te Anau, a spot close to his heart thanks to many family vacations when he was younger.
Sir Richard Hayes decided to settle down and start his own family after 10 years of being a part of the Alpine Group. This allowed him to take the leap and start his own business – Southern Lakes Helicopters – in 1982. He quickly became known as a pioneer in the Fiordland Aviation Industry and used his highly developed skills to fly many search and rescue missions.
Sir Richard Hayes has been nationally recognised and was awarded the MNZM (Member of New Zealand Order of Merit) for his services to Search and Rescue. In 2014, he was also promoted to Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to the community.