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North Island

Start: Wellington
Duration: 22 minutes

The South Coast Discovery is a 22-minute scenic helicopter flight from central Wellington, following the rugged coastline towards Cook Strait before returning via Wellington Harbour. See Mākara wind farm, dramatic coastal cliffs, seal colonies and Karori Rock lighthouse, with views towards the Marlborough Sounds on clear days. Ideal for visitors, cruise passengers and locals who want to see Wellington’s wild coastline as well as its city landmarks. This flight does not include a landing.

Scenic Helicopter Flight Along Wellington’s Rugged South Coast

Travel beyond the city on a scenic flight that reveals Wellington’s rugged southern coastline from above. Fly past Mākara wind farm and follow the coast towards Cook Strait, where steep cliffs, remote shoreline and seal colonies create a striking contrast to the capital’s urban landscape. Look out for Karori Rock lighthouse and, when visibility allows, distant views of the Marlborough Sounds and the northern South Island.

The return journey takes you over Wellington Harbour for a different perspective on the city. Spot familiar landmarks such as Te Papa, the Beehive and Wellington Stadium, known as the Cake Tin, before landing back in central Wellington. With 22 minutes in the air, South Coast Discovery combines coastal scenery and city sightseeing in one flight.

Tour Highlights

  • 22-minute scenic helicopter flight
  • Fly past Mākara wind farm
  • Explore Wellington’s rugged South Coast
  • Look out for coastal seal colonies
  • See Karori Rock lighthouse
  • Cook Strait and coastal cliff views
  • Return via Wellington Harbour
  • Request your preferred departure time
  • 22-minute scenic helicopter flight from central Wellington
  • Aerial sightseeing along the South Coast and Wellington Harbour
  • More than 7 days before departure: Full refund**
  • Within 7 days and 48 hours: 50% refund**
  • Less than 48 hours before departure: No refund

Weather & Cancellations

Helicopter flights are weather-dependent. Bookings cancelled within 48 hours of departure are non-refundable under the operator’s stated cancellation policy.

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.

Frequently asked questions

Passengers are advised to wear warm clothing, covered shoes, and bring minimal hand luggage (under 7kg). Sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended.

Yes, individual and total weight restrictions apply to specific flights. Passengers must provide accurate weights during booking.

Yes, private charters can be arranged. A 20% deposit may be required for these bookings.

Yes, all scenic flights require a minimum number of fare-paying passengers. If the minimum is not met, additional payments may be required, or the flight may not proceed.

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