Scenic return helicopter flight from ChristchurchApproximately 15-minute flight each wayFree time to explore AkaroaPilot commentaryOptional experiences in Akaroa are not included and must be booked separately.Optional Experiences in AkaroaNature Cruises – Spot or swim with the rare Hector's dolphins.Caldera Estate Winery – Sample award-winning wines with stunning vineyard views.The Giants House – Wander through a world of art and sculpture.Pohatu Penguins - Penguin tours

Important Information

Duration varies depending on time spent in AkaroaDress warmlyProof of age (18+) required for alcohol consumptionFlights operate subject to weatherHelicopter type at operator’s discretion

Overview Pricing

Christchurch to Akaroa Helicopter Tour

South Island

Garden City Helicopters

from

AU$712

per person

Scenic helicopter parked with panoramic view of Akaroa Harbour

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch Airport

Location: Christchurch

Travel Time: 3 hours

Explore Banks Peninsula and Akaroa on a scenic return helicopter tour departing from Christchurch Airport. Enjoy approximately 15 minutes of flying each way, with around 2.5 hours to explore Akaroa during the advertised three-hour experience. Your tour includes return helicopter flights, pilot commentary and free time in Akaroa. Flights are weather-dependent, with departure frequency confirmed when booking. Ideal for couples, families and travellers seeking a scenic coastal escape.

Discover Akaroa and Banks Peninsula by Helicopter

Take off from Christchurch and enjoy spectacular aerial views as you fly across Banks Peninsula, a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Look down on rugged hills, sheltered bays and the dramatic coastline before descending towards Akaroa Harbour. Your pilot will share commentary along the way, giving you a unique perspective on the peninsula's volcanic formations and coastal scenery. The short helicopter journey offers a memorable alternative to the winding road trip from Christchurch.

Once you land in Akaroa, enjoy free time to explore this charming harbour village, known for its French heritage, waterfront cafés and boutique shops. Stroll along the picturesque shoreline, discover local galleries or simply take in the harbour views. For an additional experience, you can arrange a nature cruise to look for rare Hector's dolphins, visit The Giants House with its colourful mosaics and sculptures, or explore the region's wildlife and vineyards. Optional activities are available at an additional cost and must be booked separately.

Red wine and cheese platter at Caldera Vineyard near Akaroa

Helicopter flying over Banks Peninsula coastline on a scenic flight from Christchurch to Akaroa

Family sitting among colourful mosaic sculptures at The Giants House in Akaroa

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

Aerial view of Diamond Harbour looking across to Lyttelton Harbour on a scenic helicopter flight

Aerial view of Lake Forsyth nestled in Banks Peninsula’s rugged volcanic landscape

Mount Herbert ridgeline view looking north towards Pegasus Bay from helicopter

Aerial view of Lyttelton Harbour and surrounding mountains on route to Akaroa

Two passengers wearing headsets enjoying views from the front seats of a helicopter

Helicopter landing on a scenic hilltop near Akaroa on Banks Peninsula

Picturesque view of Akaroa village and harbour with boats in the bay

Yachts anchored in Akaroa Harbour with historic French village in the background

Vineyards at Caldera Estate with stunning views over Akaroa Harbour

Rare Hector’s dolphin jumping out of the water during an Akaroa nature cruise

Bottles of Hector’s Gin from Akaroa Craft Distillery lined up on bar counter

Scenic return helicopter flight from Christchurch
Approximately 15-minute flight each way
Free time to explore Akaroa
Pilot commentary

Optional experiences in Akaroa are not included and must be booked separately.

Optional Experiences in Akaroa

Nature Cruises – Spot or swim with the rare Hector's dolphins.
Caldera Estate Winery – Sample award-winning wines with stunning vineyard views.
The Giants House – Wander through a world of art and sculpture.
Pohatu Penguins - Penguin tours

Duration varies depending on time spent in Akaroa
Dress warmly
Proof of age (18+) required for alcohol consumption
Flights operate subject to weather
Helicopter type at operator’s discretion

More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**
Within 24 hours: No refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.