Your flight training journey begins here.
At Learn To Fly NZ, we’re passionate about helping people achieve their flying goals – whether that’s taking an introductory flight, gaining a Private Pilot Licence, pursuing a Commercial Pilot Licence, or visitors experiencing our mountain flying packages.
ABOUT
Learn To Fly NZ
We are proud to be part of the Wanaka Helicopters Group, operating out of our world-class training school at Wanaka Airport.
This gives our students access to modern facilities, well-maintained aircraft, and the benefits of being part of New Zealand’s largest and most experienced flight training provider.
Based in Wānaka, at the heart of New Zealand’s spectacular Southern Alps, we offer flight training experiences like no other. Within minutes of take-off, you can be flying over pristine alpine lakes, navigating mountain passes, or tracking out towards the rugged West Coast. This unique location gives our students invaluable real-world flying experience in diverse and challenging environments.
FLIGHT TRAINING OPTIONS
Our Training Approach
We provide a full suite of flight training options, including:
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL) – your first step towards becoming a pilot
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) – opening up professional flying opportunities
- Diploma in Aviation (Aeroplane) – a comprehensive qualification for a career in aviation
- C Category Flight Instructor Rating – launch your instructing career
- Mountain Flying Courses – master flying in alpine environments
- Type Ratings – including Cessna 172 training
- Introductory and flight training packages – from first flights to first solo
- Ground Courses - our flexible ground courses support our PPL
PERSONALISED FLIGHT TRAINING
Why train with Learn To Fly NZ?
We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional, personalised flight training. Our dedicated team of instructors bring decades of experience flying in extreme and mountainous environments across the world – from Alaska and the Canadian Rockies to the Southern Alps right here in New Zealand. They are committed to your success, supporting you to become a safe, skilled, and confident pilot.
At Learn To Fly NZ, you’re more than just a student – you become part of our community of passionate aviators.
Meet Our Learn To Fly Team
Our team is made up of talented, experienced instructors who are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of flight training while creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
Tiz Deerson - Flight Instructor
Tiz is a C Category Flight Instructor who began his aviation journey in 2022. Born in Queenstown and raised in Rangiora, he returned to Wānaka to instruct and support students through their flying careers. Before aviation, Tiz owned and operated a gym for six years as a qualified personal trainer.
Tiz’s favourite part of instructing is being an active part of a student’s progress and celebrating their milestones along the way. He values continual learning, both for himself and his students. He loves flying in Wānaka for its demanding environment and the unique opportunity to operate alongside Wanaka Helicopters. Outside of flying, Tiz enjoys motorcycling and snowboarding.
Jacob Lagumen - Flight Instructor
Jacob is a B Category Flight Instructor who completed his Bachelor of Aviation at Massey University in 2022 and gained his Flight Instructor Rating with IFR privileges in 2023. Born in the Philippines and raised in Auckland, he spent a year instructing in Auckland before moving to Wānaka to fly in the stunning South Island alpine environment.
Jacob enjoys the privilege of sharing his knowledge with future aviators and being part of their aviation journey. He loves flying in Wānaka for its spectacular scenery and demanding terrain, which helps develop strong, confident pilots. His most memorable flying moments are taking family and friends up to experience flight. Outside of aviation, Jacob enjoys playing basketball and riding his motorbike.
What Our Students Say
Discover why our students choose us for their flight training!
OUR MISSION
Our Mission at Learn To Fly NZ
We’re here to produce highly skilled, safe, and confident pilots ready to pursue their aviation dreams – whether for personal adventure, career pathways, or instructing the next generation of aviators. We achieve this by combining expert instruction, a supportive learning environment, and the world-class flying opportunities that only Wānaka can provide. Watch our quick video to get an ideas of what it is like to train with Learn To Fly NZ amongst the Southern Alps.
Join Us
Whether you’re dreaming of taking your first flight or looking to advance your professional flying career, Learn To Fly NZ is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you achieve your aviation goals.