Helicopter Scenic Flights in New Zealand

Soar Above Aotearoa’s Most Iconic Landscapes

Take your New Zealand adventure to new heights with breathtaking helicopter scenic flights that showcase the country’s most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Whether you're flying above the Southern Alps in Canterbury or cruising over the shimmering waters of Lake Pukaki, these flights offer a front-row seat to New Zealand’s natural wonders. Touch down on the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and step into a world of ancient ice—an unforgettable up-close encounter with the country's glacial heart.

Further south, Queenstown and Fiordland offer equally spellbinding heli experiences. From the iconic peaks of Fiordland National Park to the sheer cliffs and waterfalls of Milford Sound, each flight delivers cinematic scenery from above. Landings in these remote alpine areas allow you to breathe in the serenity of the wilderness, far from the crowds and roads.

Volcanic Air Squirrel helicopter flying above Lake Tarawera, New Zealand

Helicopter parked on Mt Tarawera’s summit with Lake Tarawera in the background

Helicopter flying over White Island (Whakaari), New Zealand’s most active marine volcano

Helicopter flying over Wellington city, with views of the harbour and stadium

Helicopter flying above Marlborough Sounds towards Bay of Many Coves

Helicopter parked on the lawn of Wharekauhau Country Estate on a sunny day

Passenger view from inside a helicopter flying over the hills towards Akaroa

Couple stepping out of helicopter at winery in North Canterbury for a luxury lunch experience

Snowy mountaintop picnic with food, wine, and helicopter overhead in Kaikōura

Sperm whale tail disappearing beneath the surface off Kaikōura’s coastline

Helicopter flying past snow-covered ridge at sunset with sharp alpine peaks

Helicopter flying over the rugged Hochstetter Glacier Icefall near Aoraki Mount Cook

Helicopter flying above Milford Sound with dramatic mountain cliffs

Helicopter flying into Earnslaw Burn with waterfalls and glacier in the background

Geothermal Marvels and Coastal Vistas

On the North Island, helicopter flights unlock unique perspectives on the region’s geothermal and coastal beauty. In Rotorua, you’ll fly above steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and vibrant hot springs in the otherworldly landscapes of Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu. Over on the southern coast of the North Island, scenic flights reveal the rugged cliffs and hidden beaches near Wellington, offering views you simply can’t experience from the ground.

Many helicopter tours also include exclusive landings at luxurious and remote locations—like the acclaimed Wharekauhau Lodge or along wild Fiordland trails for a private heli-hike. Whether you’re seeking snow landings, glacier walks, or coastal escapes, these aerial experiences turn New Zealand’s dramatic geography into your personal playground.

Additional reading

North Island Helicopter Flights

View from helicopter cockpit flying over Mount Tarawera crater and Lake Tarawera

Take off on a North Island helicopter flight and soar over Rotorua’s volcanic wonders or Wellington’s rugged coastlines. From cultural insights to luxury landings, these scenic flights offer a uniquely elevated experience.

Find out more

South Island Helicopter Flights

Glacier Country Helicopters blue IDX helicopter during snow landing near Franz Josef

Soar above New Zealand’s South Island with scenic helicopter flights over glaciers, fiords, and mountains. From glacier landings to heli-hikes, discover unforgettable views and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Find out more