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Flying with

True South Flights

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True South Flight logo
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Meet the team

We are a small bunch of pilots and administrators who share a passion for the wonders of the South Island and customer service, and want to showcase our amazing destinations to both local and international travellers.

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Our Team

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Peter Daniell – Founder

With a lifelong passion for aviation that ignited during his early teenage years, Peter’s fascination with flight led him to the captivating Queenstown area in 2004, where he immediately fell in love by the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes and unique flying experiences. As the founder, Peter’s leadership has been marked by innovation, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to providing guests with unparalleled adventures. Beyond flying, he’s a motorcycle enthusiast, avid surfer, and motorsports lover. From conquering clouds to waves and tracks, Peter embodies the spirit of exploration in every realm.  

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Jason Yang – Chief Pilot

Born in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, China, and nurtured amidst the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, he joined True South Flights in 2017, where his role as a pilot allows him to introduce passengers to the awe-inspiring beauty of Fiordland National Park, showcasing its lush forests and captivating fjords. Beyond his career, he is all about embracing nature’s awesomeness, chasing new horizons, and digging into some seriously good eats.

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Andrew Adamson – Safety Manager

Andrew has been part of True South since the early days, playing a big role in shaping the fun, welcoming culture we’re known for. Even through the ups and downs of COVID, his passion for True South never faded — in fact, he loved it so much that he came back to rejoin the crew! Known as the party-starter of the team, Andrew is always ready to find the next reason to celebrate, whether it’s a milestone, a Monday, or just good vibes. When he’s not at work, you’ll probably find Andrew happily diving into a new spreadsheet project (yes, really!) or taking his Tesla out for a spin.

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Luke Hancock – Senior Pilot

Coming from the vibrant city of Christchurch, Luke gained his commercial pilot license and moved to Queenstown late October 2023 to join the team. In his leisure time, you’ll often find him casting a line in serene waters, navigating off-road trails in his trusty 4WD or carving up the surf of the Southern seas.  

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Tanmay Patel – Senior Pilot

While originally from India, he spent his upbringing in the lively urban landscape of Auckland. However, his professional pursuit of aviation directed him to Queenstown in the early months of 2023. During his off-duty hours, Tanmay’s immerses himself in the mesmerizing scenery of New Zealand’s South Island. Whether he’s embarking on treks through woodlands or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas, he consistently seeks outdoor escapades. Additionally, Tanmay takes immense pleasure in sampling the eclectic culinary offerings presented by the local eateries in Queenstown.

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Michael Stott – Senior Pilot

Michael has lived and worked in seven different locations around New Zealand and has flown everywhere from the top to the bottom of the South Island. He confidently says that Fiordland is his absolute favourite place. When he’s not flying, he’s usually searching for his next tramping or trail-running adventure in the hills. Anyone joining him for a trip will likely hear about all the secret spots he’s discovered—though fair warning: if you go tramping with Michael, you shouldn’t expect a hot shower for a week or two!

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Lily McLean – Line Pilot

Originally from Auckland, Lily joined True South in late 2024, and is excited to call Queenstown her new home. Lily was exposed to aviation from a young age and feel lucky to have scored her dream job here in the South Island. As a self-proclaimed Middle-Earth enthusiast, Lily is more than happy to point out iconic locations during your flight. In her spare time, you will find Lily exploring Queenstown, making the most of the incredible scenery.

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Daniel Ogden – Line Pilot

Originally from Australia, Daniel brings his enthusiasm for aviation and adventure to the True South Flights team. Before moving to Queenstown from Christchurch, he spent several years working in the Air Force, where his passion for flying really took off. Daniel is always eager to get into the air and share the stunning views of the Southern Alps with passengers. When he’s not flying, you’ll find him out mountain biking and making the most of Queenstown’s epic trails.

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Deborah Fraga – CEO

An aviation enthusiast, she embarked on a transformative journey when she left Brazil for a New Zealand vacation in 2017. Unbeknownst to her, this adventure would shape her new home and a fulfilling career in aviation. With over five years dedicated to the major airline industry, her path shifted in September 2022 upon joining True South Flights. This transition unveiled her passion for small aircraft, sparking a dedicated commitment to excellent service. 

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Belinda Farley – Customer Experience Manager

Born in Australia, Belinda’s passion for adventure led her to New Zealand in 2017, where she has since carved a unique path in the industry. For three years, she played a pivotal role as a helicopter loading specialist at Fox Glacier. In her continuous pursuit of growth and new challenges, she relocated to Queenstown in 2022 where she’s worked as a ramp agent for international flights, debunking any luggage mishap myths before joining our team in February 2023. Beyond work, Belinda’s adventurous spirit remains unwavering. She finds joy in mountain biking, running, hiking, and baking delightful treats for the team.

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Bethany Russell – Sales + Marketing Executive

Beth is a UK native who made her way to Queenstown in 2013, enticed by the outdoor lifestyle that the region offers. Her professional journey has been primarily within the realm of tourism, with notable roles such as loading helicopters in Fox and Franz Josef and crewing on boats in Milford Sound. In her leisure time, Beth’s passion for the mountains shines through. She enjoys immersing herself in the rugged beauty of the landscape, whether that involves hiking or simply appreciating the natural surroundings. A loyal companion often joins her on these mountain adventures – her beloved dog.

Testimonials

Read what thousands of our happy customers have to say about their experience with True South Flights

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