Southern Alps Explorer Heli-Flight

South Island

Garden City Helicopters

from

NZ$1860

per person

Helicopter soaring through snowy mountain peaks near Mount Cook

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch Airport

Location: Christchurch

Travel Time: 2 hours

Details

Scenic Flight Over Canterbury and Beyond

The Southern Alps Explorer Heli-Flight begins in Christchurch, where the vast Canterbury Plains stretch like a giant patchwork quilt between the Pacific Ocean and the mighty Alps. As the helicopter ascends, the view shifts dramatically from rolling farmland to rugged peaks that dominate the skyline. The experience is as exhilarating as it is peaceful, offering a rare perspective of this striking landscape.

Flying further inland, the flight traces the winding path of the Waimakariri River, a lifeline carving through dramatic gorges. Along the way lies Castle Hill, famous for its limestone boulders and cinematic history in The Chronicles of Narnia. This natural playground is also beloved by climbers, adding another layer of wonder to the journey.

Frozen lakes nestled among snowy mountain ranges on a winter helicopter flight in the Southern Alps

View from inside the helicopter cockpit flying over Canterbury during Southern Alps Explorer tour

Aerial view of Castle Hill Basin and rugged alpine gorge on Southern Alps Explorer flight

Garden City Helicopters aircraft flying through the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps

Snow-covered peaks of the Southern Alps with braided river plains viewed from helicopter

Aerial view of Arthur’s Pass with braided river weaving through the Canterbury landscape

Striking limestone rock formations at Castle Hill viewed from the Southern Alps Explorer helicopter tour

Crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by mountains on the Southern Alps Explorer helicopter tour

Remote alpine landing area nestled among rocky peaks on Southern Alps Explorer helicopter flight

Aerial view of the Canterbury Plains with farmland stretching to the horizon

Wide landscape view of the Torlesse Range with native scrub and mountain backdrop in Canterbury

Abstract aerial view of the braided Waimakariri River winding through Canterbury

Aerial view of Waimakariri River braided channels and Southern Alps

Aerial view of a braided river feeding into a turquoise lake with snow-capped mountains in the distance

Turquoise waters of the Waimakariri River flowing through rocky riverbeds surrounded by mountains

Alpine Landing in Arthur’s Pass

Crossing Arthur’s Pass National Park, you’ll spot the historic TranzAlpine railway threading through tunnels and valleys below. The contrast of human engineering with the untamed wilderness is a sight few ever witness from above. Soon after, the helicopter makes its descent onto a secluded alpine summit, far removed from the world below.

On landing, the fresh alpine air and sweeping panoramas of snow-capped peaks create a moment of pure serenity. This remote setting is the perfect spot to capture photos that reflect the grandeur of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Combining adventure and tranquillity, the experience leaves every traveller with memories that will last forever.

HIGHLIGHTS

Scenic helicopter flight over the Canterbury Plains and alongside the Waimakariri River.
Aerial views of Castle Hill and the route of the historic TranzAlpine railway.
Remote mountain landing for an up-close experience with the Southern Alps' majestic beauty.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of flying, offering extensive views of the Southern Alps.
Seasonal opportunity for a snow landing, depending on weather conditions.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please inform us in advance if you wish to add a lunch or picnic option (not included in the base price).
Must be 18 years or older to consume or purchase alcohol; valid ID required.
Dress warmly for the alpine environment.
Gift vouchers valid for 12 months from purchase date.