GCH Aviation Group Expands Tourism Portfolio With Purchase of Kaikoura Helicopters

GCH Aviation is boosting its investment in tourism infrastructure by buying Kaikoura Helicopters

GCH Aviation Group Chief Executive, Andrew Currie says the purchase expands the group’s scenic and commercial aviation services across New Zealand and the Pacific, establishing it as one of New Zealand’s major tourism aviation providers.

He says the company is going from strength to strength and has its sights firmly fixed on the premium tourism sector. “We are ensuring our clients are given the very best experience from the minute they arrive to when they get out to explore New Zealand. Our high-value international visitors can now fly directly into Christchurch and head into the regions knowing they will receive the same high level of service, safety, and experience.”

“Kaikoura is world renowned for its whale watching and the region also boasts spectacular coastal and alpine scenery. Kaikoura Helicopters is the most experienced aerial whale watching company in the world and has one of only two helicopter concessions to fly over the whale sanctuary. We are delighted to add their expertise to our portfolio,” he says.

GCH Aviation is headquartered in Christchurch at a new $23 million base which opened last year. With other bases in Nelson, Greymouth, Wellington, Vanuatu and Fiji, the company owns more than 30 aircraft and employs over 120 staff across its helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft services, which as well as tourism flights, also includes certified flight training, air rescue and ambulance operations.

The group’s 9,000 sqm Christchurch facility has direct access to the Christchurch Airport runway, and dedicated helipads. It includes Christchurch’s first full-service jet centre for the South Island’s rapidly growing corporate aviation market, with hangar parking and overnight facilities for jets, a private terminal, ground handling, catering, plus Ministry of Primary Industry and Customs services.

Established in 1983, GCH Aviation is the only company to hold the prestigious Helicopter Association of New Zealand Diamond Safety Award for 30+ years continuous service without injury accident to self, passengers or crew. It also holds a 100% Pure New Zealand Qualmark Gold endorsement.