PureHeli is a locally owned and family operated Helicopter company, proudly founded by Nelson locals Charlie Rowe and Hope Donaldson.

Charlie’s aviation career began in 2015, growing into over a decade of flying across the Top of the South Island and Northern Canada. Charlie’s diverse background covers flight instruction, tourism operations, aerial firefighting, and external load support, providing the expertise and versatility to operate in a wide range of environments.

Charlie’s passion for the outdoors and showcasing the Nelson region is at the heart of what he does. Behind the scenes Hope’s extensive administrative background helps ensure every aspect of PureHeli runs seamlessly.

Together, PureHeli is a business centered on exceptional service, local knowledge and a genuine passion for the outdoors and showcasing all that our region has to offer.

PureHeli is backed by an experienced team of pilots, we combine expert flying with deep local knowledge and a genuine passion for the region, its people, and the experiences it offers.

Our skilled crew delivers a full range of helicopter services, from private charters and scenic flights to backcountry adventures and commercial operations. Driven by a passion for sharing this incredible part of the South Island, we create unforgettable experiences while maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

About us

A smiling man and woman standing together on a rocky ledge in front of a turquoise lake, with steep mountain peaks and partly cloudy sky in the background.

Our Fleet

  • H125 B3e

    H125 B3e

    The Airbus Dual Hydraulic H125 is a highly versatile helicopter suited to tourism, charter, utility, and commercial operations. It is a proven high-performance aircraft across a wide range of operating environments.

    • Carries up to 6 passengers

    • External load lifting capacity of up to 1,400 kg

    • Cruise speed - 120 knots

    PureHeli Airbus H125 B3e helicopter parked on a snow-covered alpine summit in Nelson Tasman, New Zealand. Experience premium helicopter scenic flights, private charters and alpine adventures across the Top of the South Island with PureHeli.
  • MD500

    MD500

    The Hughes 500D is a powerful and agile helicopter ideally suited to commercial operations, tourism, charter, and scenic flights. Renowned for its exceptional manoeuvrability & performance it is an excellent choice for accessing remote locations.

    • Carries up to 4 passengers

    • External Load lifting capacity of up to 500kg

    • Cruise speed - 110 knots

    Hughes 500D helicopter flying over the Nelson Tasman landscape, showcasing PureHeli’s commercial helicopter charter, scenic flights and remote access capabilities in New Zealand.
  • Cabri G2

    The Guimbal Cabri G2 is a modern, lightweight helicopter purpose-built for flight training. It provides excellent all-round visibility, low operating costs, and modern safety systems, while delivering a smooth and comfortable flying experience. Its fully articulated main rotor system and modern avionics contribute to making it one of the safest and most capable training helicopters in its class.

    Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopter in flight over the Nelson Tasman countryside, showcasing PureHeli’s helicopter flight training and pilot licence training in New Zealand.

Let’s Work Together