June 3 2026
Hunter Wilton's precision at altitude
#Where MITO can take you
Hunter is an Aviation Painter with HeliSupport NZ, based at Wānaka Airport. Working under the supervision of Jordan Buick, Hunter is completing the New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Refinishing (Levels 3 and 4).
What makes your role unique?
The uniqueness of the role stems from the wide variety of work in Helicopter painting, it sits at a crossroad between industrial refinishing and precision craftsmanship. Every diminutive detail matters especially in engine component work. Tolerances are stricter, surfaces are complex and we work around specific regulations. Downtime pressure is immense due to running costs which can enter four figures an hour.
What are some of your main responsibilities?
My responsibilities in my workplace are far and wide, following regular automotive refinishing tasks with added aircraft regulations, maintenance of the workshop and its stock, working directly with L.A.M.E.S (licensed aircraft maintenance engineers), and many more.
What are the coolest things about your job?
The environment is one of the coolest aspects of the job. Being at an airport even without a special interest in aviation the variety in machines, fixed wings/helicopters etc that you see on a daily basis are fascinating. Often you will see machines you've painted yourself flying amongst them.
Hunter's favourite work story
One of my favourite experiences while at work was watching the setup for the infamous Warbirds over Wānaka, an airshow based out the Wānaka airport.
So many unique aircraft doing trial runs, coming in from all parts of the country ready for a performance.
Hunter's photos
Click to view larger versions of Hunter's photos.
