Top South Island In the Air - page 7

A ride on our 'magic carpet' will see you whisked away to a scenic hilltop landing with panoramic views. Escape to peace and quiet and take a moment to reset in the fresh mountain air. Our spots overlooking the Canterbury plains and coastline provide the perfect setting for a special celebration, proposal, romantic getaway, or just a few drinks with friends. An optional picnic can be included. Talk to our team about organizing this or you are welcome to bring you own!

Experience the impressive Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki / Mount Cook as it cascades down the mountainside. Explore the upper Tasman Glacier, with its neves and crevasses that have been formed over centuries. Make a spectacular glacier landing with breathtaking views of the 'Cloud Piercer' Aoraki / Mount Cook. Take in the expansive vistas of the Burnett Mountains and Mackenzie Basin.

Kaikoura Helicopters Helijet – The Ultimate Helicopter & Jet Boat Shore Excursion Depart from our beachfront helipads for a scenic helicopter tour of the stunning Kaikoura Coast, soaring over dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters—perfect for birds-eye views and photography. Then, experience the thrill of Energy Jet with a 30-minute return jet boat ride up the spectacular Hurunui River Gorge, navigating twists and turns surrounded by towering cliffs and native flora. After your jet boat adventure, board your helicopter for a scenic return flight north along the Hurunui River mouth and Kaikoura coastline. This helicopter and jet boat combination offers an unforgettable perspective of Kaikoura’s landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty—ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cruise ship shore excursions. Highlights: scenic helicopter flight, jet boat adventure, coastal return flight, prime photo opportunities, unforgettable Kaikoura experience.

Embark on an intimate small-group adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound—one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural wonders. This fully guided day trip is more than just a destination; it’s an experience crafted with care, comfort, and connection in mind. Travel in our premium Sprinter, designed for a relaxed pace and optimal viewing, with plenty of time to stop, explore, and soak up the landscape. From majestic alpine valleys to cascading waterfalls and native wildlife encounters, every moment of the journey is part of the magic. But the magic doesn’t end at the water’s edge. After cruising through the serene fjord, you will unforgettably return to Queenstown—via a scenic flight over Fiordland. Soar above towering peaks, ancient rainforests, and glittering lakes on a breathtaking aerial journey that offers a perspective few can witness. It’s the perfect finale to a day filled with wonder.

Fly to the vines with Altitude Tours on a Helicopter Wine Tour. Begin your day being picked up from your Queenstown accommodation before taking a scenic helicopter flight over Queenstown, soaring above stunning vineyards and mountain ranges before landing on a peak to enjoy a glass of local sparkling wine to kick start your bucket list wine tour. Touch down at your first cellar door where your guide will host you across four tasting experiences, including New Zealand’s largest wine cave. Along the way you’ll taste award winning wines, hear fascinating stories of the region and have the option to enjoy a winery lunch (additional cost). This experience takes wine touring to new heights, pairing fine wine with unforgettable views and people. Taste some of New Zealand’s best wines, on the World's Best Wine Tour (voted 2021). Venues typically include Gibbston Valley, Ayrburn, Kinross and Mt Rosa, though they may vary if a venue is unavailable.

Now's the time to wine and dine in the stunning North Canterbury wine region of Waipara. Enjoy a guided tour from your pilot en route, showcasing the best of the region. A four-course lunch with wine pairing is included, and weather permitting, let's stop off on the way home with a hilltop landing! This can be customized to suit your needs, so if you need to stop off at another winery for some tasting or mix things up a bit, let's talk!

Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Witness the stunning blue ice and majestic landscapes on the Glacier Express Scenic Flight. This unforgettable alpine adventure begins in Glenorchy and takes you soaring over the shimmering Lake Whakatipu and near the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. Touch down on fresh snow atop an ancient glacier and soak in panoramic views while capturing incredible images of New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes. Along the journey, expert pilots provide insights into the unique ecosystems and conservation efforts of the area. Ideal for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts, this 40-minute experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the untouched wilderness. - 40-minute scenic helicopter tour including a glacier landing - Discover the pristine beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park - Learn from experienced pilots - Complimentary return transport from Central Queenstown available

What better way to start your Alps to Ocean adventure than with a scenic flight through the Southern Alps to gain the perfect overview of the area! This Aoraki / Mount Cook scenic flight includes a helicopter flight along the entire length of the mighty Tasman Glacier. All our helicopter tours include a commentary from the pilot. They are passionate about their backyard and will show you the hidden treasures of the national park that only a local expert can. Fly the full length of the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier before landing to get a sense of its scale and grandeur. Once airborne again, we transfer you and your bike across the Tasman River to Rotten Tommy, the starting point of your cycle journey. If you would like to book just an A2O transfer, call our Aoraki Mount Cook office for trip and flight advice to make the most of your Aoraki adventure.

Experience the stunning beauty of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi from both above and at ground level. This unique tour combines a scenic helicopter flight over Fiordland National Park with an alpine landing, allowing you to explore the majestic landscapes surrounding Mitre Peak. Enjoy a guided 30-minute walk along the Milford Sound shoreline with an informative pilot, providing insights into the region's natural wonders. Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a seamless journey. - Scenic helicopter flight with two landings, including one in Milford Sound - Guided 30-minute walk to capture picturesque views - Informative pilot commentary enhances your understanding of the area - Allow 2.5 hours, including check-in and safety briefing

Embark on the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter whale watching tour for a unique wildlife and scenic adventure. Fly over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where you’ll spot majestic marine life including sperm whales, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other migratory species. The helicopter’s manoeuvrability offers incredible views of the whales and dolphins, with close-up photo opportunities you can’t get from boats. Keep an eye out for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals near the shore. Continue the adventure north along the rugged Kaikōura coastline and land in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. From this exclusive mountaintop location, enjoy 360-degree views of Kaikōura Peninsula, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains—an unforgettable experience for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

The only helicopter experience that combines a Milford Sound flyover with two incredible landings — a remote alpine peak and the cinematic Earnslaw Burn showcasing a hanging glacier.

Beat the crowds with our signature flight that includes Milford Sound, Lake Quill, Mt Tutoko, Skippers Canyon and our exclusive landing location, the Earnslaw Burn.

Embark on an intimate small-group adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound—one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural wonders. This fully guided day trip is more than just a destination; it’s an experience crafted with care, comfort, and connection in mind. Travel in the premium Sprinter, designed for a relaxed pace and optimal viewing, with plenty of time to stop, explore, and soak up the landscape. From majestic alpine valleys to cascading waterfalls and native wildlife encounters, every moment of the journey is part of the magic. After your scenic cruise through the breathtaking fjord, elevate the experience—literally—with a spectacular helicopter flight back to Queenstown. Soar above dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and untouched wilderness for a perspective few ever get to witness. It’s the perfect finale to an unforgettable day in Fiordland.

The Mt Aspiring Explorer flight is a truly immersive experience, offering an extended journey through one of New Zealand's most iconic and remote landscapes. Your adventure begins with an aerial circumnavigation of Mount Aspiring, also known as Tititea or the 'Glistening Peak,' standing proudly at 3,033 metres. You’ll soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park, a World Heritage site, and venture toward the West Coast, crossing the main divide. Along the way, you'll experience awe-inspiring views of massive glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and dense native bush, all framed by the rugged Southern Alps. This extended flight includes two alpine landings, giving you the chance to step onto a glacier and the stunning Albert Burn Saddle, allowing you to truly connect with the pristine wilderness of this remote region.

The Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman Glaciers are often called accessible glaciers, but you can’t see much of them from ground level. For the best views, take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight, with a short landing atop one glacier to touch the snow and ice. Enjoy unparalleled views on a private flight, without the risk of strangers hogging the window seat. Flights depart from Franz Josef town.

New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, including intricate river systems and fast-flowing rapids. This tour takes you on an amazing scenic flight over the Canterbury Plains before arriving at the Waimakariri Gorge for an adrenalin-packed Jet Boat ride. It’s the ultimate Kiwi experience. Our pilots will personalise this experience for you by sharing their local knowledge and insights of our big backyard as you fly over remarkable sights and landmarks, including; Waimakariri Gorge and Claxby. We have plenty to share with you and can’t wait for you to experience it. *Price includes Jet Boat adventure ride.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. However, we at Cheeky Kea Tours feel it is an absolute "must-see"! Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Join us as we venture north to the Kaikōura Peninsula, which was the seat where Māui sat when he fished the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) up from the depths of the ocean. What can we say except you’re welcome to soak in the panoramic views and spot all the marine wildlife this town has to offer. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a 30 minute Whale Watching Flight, this journey is one you will never forget.

This curated 5 day tour from Queenstown offers you a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting many of the top attractions in New Zealand's South. Enjoy optional handpicked activities and places to stay without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances yourself. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South New Zealand in a relaxed way. Enjoy the comfort of a private tour for your group, benefiting from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 10 optional activities, like a scenic helicopter ride, Milford Sound or Doubtful cruise, a tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a visit to transport museum, round-trip ferry & flight ticket between Stewart Island and Bluff, guided exploration in Stewart Island, alpine horse trekking, stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve, and a private hot soak experience. Start and finish at Queenstown.

Journey from Queenstown to Aoraki Mount Cook on a breathtaking scenic flight that reveals the stunning Southern Alps. Soar over majestic landmarks and glaciers, then land at Mount Cook Airport for a self-guided adventure. Spend up to 5 hours exploring the national park with options to visit The Hermitage Hotel for lunch, the Sir Edmund Hillary Museum, or walk the scenic Hooker Valley Track. With guaranteed window seats and knowledgeable pilots offering insights throughout the flight, this tour perfectly combines awe-inspiring landscapes with the freedom to explore at your own pace. - Round trip scenic flights from Queenstown to Mt. Cook Airport - Up to 5 hours of self-guided exploration in Mt. Cook National Park - Ground transport in Mt Cook to local scenic spots and activities - Guaranteed window seat for every guest - Complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off included

Take to the skies for a spectacular scenic flight over the dramatic Southern Alps and Gibbston wine region, gaining a unique perspective of New Zealand’s southernmost vineyards. Enjoy an alpine landing on The Remarkables with time for photos and breathtaking views. On landing, meet your expert guide and begin a luxury wine tour through Central Otago. Indulge in premium tastings at carefully selected vineyards and savour a delicious à la carte lunch featuring regional cuisine in Bannockburn or Cromwell. With hotel pick-up and drop-off included, plus flexible timing and the option to customise your itinerary, this experience blends adventure, luxury, and world-class wine for an unforgettable day.

See an enormous range of New Zealand highlights and have unforgettable experiences over 11 days on this tour. See both the North and South Islands, visit secluded natural spots and big cities, take in truly spectacular scenery, enjoy a thrilling range of adventure activities from jet boating to zip-lining, and much more. This is the perfect way to see the whole country in less than two-weeks, at an affordable price.

Get to know the real untouched New Zealand as you take off over the Canterbury Plains towards the well-known braided Waimakariri River. Notice the Craigieburn Basin come into view, a distinguished blockbuster film set, followed by the curious rockscape of Castle Hill. See the glisten of Lake Pearson as you fly by the Southern Alps' main divide, climbing up & over the ridgeline, to debut at the mighty Rakaia River. Without another aircraft in sight come to two of Canterbury's best kept secrets, the rarely visited Lyell & Ramsay Glaciers due to their inaccessibility. Touch down to overwhelming 360 degree views, filled with staggeringly sharp mountaintops & turquoise waters of the the glacier lakes. Enjoy lunch in the amphitheatre of the outdoors without a single disruption. Rise over the depths of Lake Coleridge and return over the Canterbury Plains, inbound for Christchurch. Please note we are unable to guarantee snow at any time particularly during Summer months (November – February)

Join our 100% local and family-owned business to see the world-famous glaciers plus some of the hidden secrets in Westland Tai Poutini and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Parks. This flight takes you to some of the remote and rarely seen areas of our National Parks! If you're seeking an experience that very few people get to see join us on a helicopter flight to over the rainforests, iconic glaciers and majestic mountains that form our incredible backyard. This 90-minute flight includes - The famous Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman Glaciers plus multiple lesser-known but equally stunning glaciers. - See Mount Cook from all directions including the rarely seen South side! - The beautiful Westland Tai Poutini and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Parks accessing some of the more remote areas. - 3 snow landings with plenty of photo opportunities!