Lifting

SIH pilots are all experienced precision long-line pilots that have worked in other parts of the world moving heavy loads onto bolts at high altitude. Each of our aircraft are equip with hooks and lifting equipment. Over the years, Stewart Island Helicopters have carried out many lifting operations on the island; domestic water tanks, sewerage pipeline upgrade, building materials, freight to remote huts, possum contractors and to fishing boats, mutton bird island freight.

Most lifting operations in this region are generally to/from fishing boats or freight boats therefore it requires special skills to move cargo to and from the boats moving at sea.

Mutton Bird Island Operations

SIH has carried out mutton bird island flying operations since 2004. Prior to that, the company’s chief pilot has a blood link and has attended each season at these islands since 1981 therefore has a vast knowledge of each island, manu, families and dangers.

Each pilot that works on these operations is familiarised and trained on working in the conditions and with the people respectively. SIH will continue to service these islands and endeavours to provide a valuable service to the islands with passengers, lifting, parcels, freight, mail, messages and emergencies.

DoC and contract work

SIH has carried out many operations on behalf of the Department of Conservation both on the mainland and on Stewart Island, including:
• Noxious Weed management
• Hut Maintenance
• Crew transfers to remote locations
• Mammal Surveys
• Track & Bridge Repair work
• Pest Investigations
• Camp Servicing
• Supply drops

All SIH pilots have vast experience working with Forest protection agencies in other countries on massive fire fighting operations using monsoon buckets, drip torching, pine beetle work projects and wild life recovery operations.

Filming & Photography

Over the past few years SIH has participated in many filming projects with South Coast Productions, Maori Television, TVNZ, TV3 and Cue TV. SIH carried out a portion of the aerial footage for the Discover Stewart Island promotional DVD and for various other DVD’s on the market. We have approved harnesses and safety equipment for filming and photography work.

Search & Rescue

SIH carries out the air support role on behalf of the Bluff Coastguard. Our phones and radios are monitored 24/7 in case of an emergency. Every year operational crew undergo training on search & rescue techniques to ensure a speedier response to call outs. Our equipment includes:
• Rescue Scoop Net
• Survival Suits
• Dry Suits
• Life-rafts
• Life-jackets
• Handheld radio communications
• Radio Direction finder
• Pagers

Survey Work

SIH has carried out many surveys and can equip the helicopters to suit your requirements for surveys. All SIH pilots have carried out many survey operations ranging from seismic data recording to forest protection surveys to general aerial counting.