Specialist Aerial Firefighting and Emergency Support Services Across the Southern Lakes Region

Heliworks Queenstown is proud to be an approved operator for Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). When wildfires threaten our region, we respond fast. Our team supports both aerial suppression and ground crew transport across Otago, Southland, and beyond.

Our helicopters are kitted out specifically for firefighting. The B3 Squirrel carries up to 1,200 litres of water in a single load. The AS355 features front-seat transmit capabilities, ensuring real-time communication between air and ground teams.

We’re one of just two operators in New Zealand flying with under-belly Simplex Fire-Bombing tanks. These tanks hold 1,200 litres of water and foam mix. Pilots can release the load through one or two doors. There’s no need for long lines, making this system ideal for flying over built-up or residential areas. Without slings or buckets underneath, we can fly faster, refill quicker, and drop water with greater accuracy. It also allows us to carry out crew transfers without stopping to reconfigure the aircraft.

For remote locations, we use Cloudburst collapsible fire buckets. These buckets can be transported internally, then deployed when needed. Pilots have full control over water coverage and can perform targeted spot dumps. Each bucket also has foam injection capability for added effectiveness.

Every one of our pilots is fire ground qualified, holding NZQA unit standard training in vegetation fire operations. Two of our senior pilots are also trained in vegetation fire behaviour, allowing them to assess fire lines and plan aerial responses with expert insight. We’re also proud to have two fully trained volunteer rural firefighters on our team, bringing ground-level experience to every mission.

At Heliworks, we take our emergency support role seriously. Whether it’s a fast-moving bushfire or a planned vegetation burn, we deliver safe, precise, and professional aerial support.