Helicopter Filming
Large-scale aerial cinematography with gyro-stabilized camera systems across New Zealand.
Helicopter filming delivers dramatic aerial perspectives with the payload capacity, flight endurance, and altitude range that drones cannot match. In New Zealand, helicopters equipped with gyro-stabilized mounts capture sweeping vistas over the Southern Alps, Mount Cook, Milford Sound and Fiordland, Tongariro National Park, the Marlborough Sounds, and coastal landscapes from the Bay of Islands to the Coromandel — the locations that brought Middle-earth to life on screen.
We coordinate helicopter filming with CAA-certified Part 102 aviation operators and experienced aerial cinematographers across New Zealand. Our team handles Civil Aviation Authority authorizations, Department of Conservation (DOC) national park filming permits, iwi consultation where required, and safety planning — so your production captures breathtaking footage over Queenstown, Wellington, or the Sub-Antarctic Islands while meeting the highest aviation standards.
Complete Helicopter Services
From epic establishing shots to high-speed chase sequences, our helicopter teams deliver cinema-quality aerial footage for large-scale productions.
Cinematic Aerials
- • Epic establishing shots
- • High-speed chase sequences
- • Extended aerial takes
- • Long-range travel shots
- • Large-scale landscape coverage
Camera Systems
- • Gyro-stabilized mounts
- • Cineflex & Shotover systems
- • ARRI & RED cinema cameras
- • Long-range zoom lenses
- • Real-time video downlink
Aviation Compliance
- • CAA Part 102 authorization
- • DOC permits for national parks
- • NOTAMs & flight plans
- • Full aviation insurance
- • Safety documentation
Safety & Coordination
- • Experienced film pilots
- • Ground safety teams
- • Air-to-ground communication
- • Weather monitoring
- • Emergency protocols
Aerial Cinematography Expertise
When should I choose helicopter over drone filming?
Helicopters are ideal for extended aerial takes over the Southern Alps, high-speed sequences, shots requiring heavy cinema cameras, long-range coverage across both islands, and situations where drones cannot operate due to CAA rules, DOC national park restrictions, or airport proximity. For quick setups and lower altitudes, drones may be more cost-effective.
What camera systems do you use for helicopter filming?
We operate gyro-stabilized systems including Cineflex and Shotover mounts, which can carry ARRI, RED, and other cinema cameras. These systems provide rock-steady footage even during dynamic flight maneuvers and allow remote camera control.
Can you film in national parks like Fiordland?
Yes, with proper authorization. Commercial filming in national parks requires Department of Conservation (DOC) permits, and Tongariro has specific Māori cultural protocols that may require iwi consultation. We coordinate with CAA and DOC to secure necessary approvals for shoots in Fiordland, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and Tongariro.
What types of helicopters do you use?
We work with various helicopter types depending on your requirements—from smaller aircraft for tight fiord maneuvers to larger helicopters for heavy camera systems and extended flights across the Southern Alps. Aircraft selection depends on altitude, shot requirements, and payload needs.
How do you handle air-to-ground coordination?
We use professional radio communication systems for real-time coordination between helicopter crew and ground teams. Directors can communicate with pilots and camera operators, and we provide video downlink for live monitoring of aerial shots.
How far in advance should we book helicopter filming?
We recommend 4-6 weeks minimum for helicopter operations in New Zealand to allow time for CAA Part 102 authorizations and DOC national park permits. Shoots requiring iwi consultation or in restricted wilderness areas may need longer lead times.
Need Helicopter Filming?
Tell us about your aerial requirements and we'll coordinate experienced helicopter teams.