About Us
Our History
Marlborough Helicopters began in 1979 and has always been proudly locally owned and operated.
The company has a philosophy of always striving to improve quality, and continues to incorporate the latest technology in order to meet and exceed industry standards.
After working within the company for over 10 years Simon and Simone Moar and Simon and Julia Cooke took over ownership of Marlborough Helicopters in 2021. The company continues to benefit from retaining the knowledge and experience of former owner Owen Dodson who remains active as a Pilot.
Our three senior pilots are highly experienced agricultural pilots. All have Grade 1 Agricultural ratings and a combined pilot experience exceeding 25,000 hours.
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HZE: Jet Ranger B206B3
Fully equipped for spraying
4 passenger capacity
400kg lifting capability
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HJI: Jet Ranger B206B3
Fully equipped for spraying
4 passenger capacity
400kg lifting capability
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IMJ: Squirrel AS350 B2
Fully equipped for spraying
5 passenger capacity
1000kg lifting capability
Specialised Spraying Technology
Our ‘Through Valve’ boom system was developed in the USA. The uniquely designed spray nozzles and aerofoil booms create a large droplet with a very low drift. In conjunction with an integrated cockpit GPS Tracmap system, we can spray with precision near sensitive boundaries and in higher winds than traditional equipment. We are one of only two NZ operators who have invested in this system for our clients.
Full Ground Based Resources
We have a comprehensive range of ground based equipment to complement our airborne fleet. We have a range of purposely designed chemical mixing units, as well as cereal pellet, seed and fertiliser loading equipment, power line and fire fighting or lighting gear.
Our ground crew are essential to our success, and all are experienced in the field. They have a range of qualifications, including Growsafe and Chemical Handling Certificates, Class 2 (minimum) licences, with DG and F endorsements and 4WD training. All ground crew receive extensive ongoing internal training in equipment maintenance and safety compliance.
All our equipment and personnel are capable of operating from remote sites.
Safety and Quality Assurance
We operate under CAA part 135 and 137, and have CAA Safety Management Systems accreditation.
All our field staff and pilots hold an extensive range of qualifications including Growsafe and chemical handling certification.
We maintain a DOC concession and regularly work alongside their rangers and staff.
Senior pilots are members of the NZAAA and advise on industry matters.
Marlborough Helicopters was NZ’s first Aircare certified operator and have proudly maintained the necessary standards.
FENZ approved operator.
Safety is our Core Value. We endeavour to operate without causing harm to people, property or the environment.
“Marlborough Heli have been excellent to work with. Skilled pilots with a great knowledge of the area. I will definitely be flying with them again soon.”