Wanaka Helicopters Graduate Profiles

Here at Wanaka Helicopters we have trained over 600 students either completing their CPL, PPL, Diploma in Aviation or advancing their training.

With our high reputation in the industry, our unique and thorough approach to flight training and our highly experienced flight instructors our graduates have a high employability rates post their training. Many of our graduates have gone on to have successful and rewarding careers all over the world.

You can read a selection of just some of our graduates own unique post graduate profiles below.

Max Roy

Max Roy’s passion for aviation ignited at 14 during a helicopter ride. Training with Wanaka Helicopters solidified his path. Post-graduation, Max secured a role with PHI Aviation, flying Sikorsky S92s to offshore platforms. He values his thorough training that prepared him for his first role.

Josh Axtens

Josh’s aviation dream, sparked by helicopters on his family farm, led him to Wanaka Helicopters. The balanced training of theory and practical skills prepared him well. Now a pilot at Volcanic Air, Josh cherishes contributing to missions and values the advice on respecting surroundings.

Jeremy Ingle

Inspired by his aviation-background parents, pursued a Diploma in Aviation and trained at Wanaka Helicopters. He excelled in practical skills like sling load flying, leading to a job offer in Australia. Jeremy enjoys the dynamic nature of flying and dreams of returning to New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

Charlotte Newbold

Charlotte's journey began with a trial flight at Wanaka Helicopters. After earning her commercial license, she now thrives at Volcanic Air in Rotorua. She encourages aspiring pilots to explore the industry and embrace the love for aviation—it's a rewarding journey!

Jared Fallaver

Jared’s passion for helicopters drove him to private lessons and a Diploma in Aviation at Wanaka Helicopters. After graduation, he juggled jobs before flying Bell 212s in Papua New Guinea. Now, he transports defense personnel and aims to return to NZ as a pilot.