The heritage of airborne search and rescue in Southland can be traced back for over 65 years. The original service was provided by the Southland Aero Club.

The service has been continually evolving over the years and in 1999 the "Southland Air Patrol" was established. This organisation was formed by the very same dedicated people who have been involved with the Southland Aero Club.

The Southland Air Patrol forms part of the Coastguard Southern Region and was the first "CAP" formed in the South Island.
 
The operational aspect to the service is carried out by Southern Wings Ltd. Southern Wings is a well established aviation company providing many different Aviation services including those required by the Southland Air Patrol. All coastguard operations are carried out in accordance with Civil Aviation Rule part 135. All flight crew are at least commercial pilots, and at least one is the holder of a current instrument rating. This allows the highest possible safety when working in the demanding South Coast and Foveaux Strait area.

All crew are well equipped and trained to carry out their particular duties.