GCH Aviation

50,000 Missions and Counting
This year marks an incredible milestone for GCH Aviation and the lifesaving services we proudly operate across the upper South Island – more than 50,000 air rescue and aeromedical missions have been flown since the launch of our rescue helicopter service in 1985.

What began as a single rescue helicopter serving Canterbury has grown to include the Canterbury & West Coast Rescue Helicopters, Nelson Marlborough Air Rescue and the NZ Flying Doctor Service, providing critical care and emergency transport to thousands of people when they needed it most.

Every mission represents a person, a family and a community impacted by the dedication of our pilots, air crew officers, engineers, medical teams, support staff, partners, funders and supporters. Together, they have helped save countless lives over four decades.

To everyone who has supported these services over the past 40 years – thank you. This milestone belongs to all of us.

John Currie is pictured with Allan Ruck, one of the first rescues. Allan crashed his aircraft into Forest Field, hit turbulence and fliped the aircraft. Allan was told if he hadn't been rescued by the chopper he would not have made it! He spent 3 months in hospital.

Skip the Winding Roads. Take to the Skies. 🚁🐋

Why spend hours winding your way north from Christchurch when you can experience one of New Zealand’s must-do wildlife encounters by helicopter?

From Christchurch to Kaikōura, our helicopter whale-watching experience gets you there and back in 3 hours return. Giving you more time to experience the grandeur of these incredible marine giants.

See a whale from head to tail from the air. A perspective you simply can’t get from the road or a boat. Soar over Kaikōura’s spectacular coastline and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

🌊 Christchurch → Kaikōura → Whale Watching → Christchurch
🚁 3-hour return experience
🐋 A unique aerial wildlife experience
📍 Kaikōura – the whale watching capital of New Zealand

Save the winding roads. See Kaikōura from above. Come and experience the whales in a way you’ll never forget. Perfect for those visiting the city from a cruise ship.

A Father's Day gift of flight.
Whether Dad has dreamed of flying or loves trying something different. This is one gift that will take Dad to new heights.
Buy now, or gift vouchers are available.

Bridal shower? Special birthday? Anniversary? Proposal?

Look no further. Experience a luxury afternoon in North Canterbury, including a scenic return helicopter flight, incredible New Zealand wines and an unforgettable gourmet lunch.

Gather your favourite people, sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views from start to finish.

Book online today or call 03 358 4360

Every day, our crews deliver critical care to patients across New Zealand, ensuring seamless bed-to-bed transfers whenever specialist care is needed.

From neonatal and paediatric patients to burns, trauma and urgent surgical transfers, the New Zealand Flying Doctors Service operates around the clock to connect communities with the care they need.

Since 1995, our dedicated team of pilots, doctors and nurses has been proud to serve New Zealand. Do you know anyone that has flown with the New Zealand Flying Doctors Service Team?

NewZealand

We’re incredibly lucky to have three fantastic instructors based at our Christchurch location, all bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience and passion for aviation to the next generation of pilots.

If learning to fly a helicopter is in your future, we’d love to meet you. Drop in for a chat or give us a call on 03 358 4360, turning your dream into reality might be closer than you think!

Your birth month is your aircraft…. Are you happy with your ride? 🚁🛩️✈️