James Patterson Gardner (18), of Arrowtown, and Wanaka pilot Stephen Combe (42) died in the crash.
Mr Patterson Gardner's mother, Louisa ‘Choppy' Patterson, this week thanked those who have helped her through the year.
The pair's deaths had "left a big gap in a lot of people's lives all over the country,'' she said.
"James was a darling boy that had such a kind and generous spirit.
"He achieved so much and touched on so many people in his short 18 years of life.
"He lit up a room and had so much more living to do, so much more to give, but his time was cut far too short.''
Ms Patterson's only child, he was to due to leave New Zealand two days after the crash to begin study at Sydney University.
"I've had wonderful support from friends and my crew ... comforting hugs, encouraging nods and empathy from others. I'd like to thank everyone for walking with me.''
The experienced pilot who owns a Queenstown helicopter firm, has commissioned a private investigation into the crash, though it is on hold until they can get access to the helicopter, only after TAIC has finished its investigation.
The cause of the crash is yet to be ascertained, but Ms Patterson believed a manufacturing weakness could be to blame.
"Aircraft don't break up in flight without there being a manufacturer's weakness.
"Perhaps God has chosen me to ascertain why it's happening.''
TAIC's preliminary report into the crash is due within the next three months.
Robinson Helicopter Company's public relations manager Loretta Conley, based at its Californian headquarters, said the company is assisting the TAIC investigation.
"At this time all we can advise is that we have not been made aware of any mechanical issues with the aircraft,'' she said.
