New Zealand Welcomes First of the New NH90 Helicopters

The New Zealand Defence Minister, Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman, officially welcomed the first of the Air Force’s new medium utility NH90 helicopters at an event in Wellington today. 


The NH90 helicopters will be the most advanced and capable helicopter the Air Force has ever had,” said Dr Coleman. “The NH90s will considerably improve the Defence Force’s ability to conduct military, counter-terrorism, disaster relief, search and rescue, and other operations,” he said. 

“This milestone illustrates that we are delivering on the plan laid out in the Defence White Paper. Like other defence forces around the world we are reprioritising our resources to provide up-to-date capability for a 21st century Defence Force. The NH90 is an outstanding example of the modernisation process so far,” said Dr Coleman. 

In total eight NH90s have been purchased for operations, with a ninth to be used for parts. The first two of these new helicopters is now ready for training purposes within New Zealand. 

The new helicopters can carry up to 18 passengers. They can lift an army Light Operational Vehicle (LOV), or up to 3,200kgs of cargo. The NH90s have twin engines for better safety over water.  The NH90s will eventually replace the fleet of 12 Iroquois, which have been in use for more than 40 years.

“We are delighted to have the NH90 helicopters as part of our new fleet. They are an important part of the Defence Force of the future,” said Dr Coleman.