Two helicopter companies have announced a merger, which will begin next month.
Queenstown-based Alpine Choppers and Te Anau-based South West Helicopters will merge under the ownership of Brendan Thow, who owns the Queenstown business.
Mr Thow said the move was a natural progression for his company and its operations.
The merger would "greatly broaden the variety of helicopter work carried out and enable better utilisation of aircraft and personnel", he said.
Mr Thow intends to maintain all South West Helicopters' existing staff and bases in Queenstown, Te Anau, Invercargill, Tuatapere and Riversdale.
"Clients can be assured that commercial and agricultural operations will continue as normal during and after the merger, which will take place during April and May."
It is likely more powerful AS350 B2 and B3 Squirrel helicopters will be added to the South West commercial operations.
South West Helicopters managing director Ian Buick was pleased a deal had been reached with Alpine Choppers and that staff job security had been settled.
He said the company had "the privilege of employing excellent staff" and he wished to thank them for their loyal service.
