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Tales from the Sky
– A Blog by Southern Lakes Helicopters

With more than 30 years experience in the aviation industry, and a passion for all things Fiordland, our blog gives you an insiders’ peek into what life is like from the skies. Whether it’s a recommendation for a two-night Fiordland itinerary or a story about the time we met Elijah Wood, you’ll find our posts unique, colourful and as kiwi as they come.

Search and Rescue: Southern Lakes Helicopters supporting emergency responses

Fiordland is one of the most remote places on the planet. At over 12,000 square kilometres it is the largest national park in New Zealand…… Discover More

Our Helicopters supporting critical studies in Antarctica

Antarctica – it’s a rough, rugged and dangerous landscape. It’s isolated, it’s quiet and it’s cold. Really cold. So, in 2012, when Southern Lakes Helicopters…… Discover More

Your Aoraki/Mt Cook Heli-Wedding

A wedding option that is sure to impress New Zealand's untamed landscapes have always captivated couples seeking a romantic and extraordinary wedding setting. Among these…… Discover More

Explore Mt Cook and Glaciers

Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Hauapa/Tasman Glacier Mount Cook, known as Aoraki in Te reo Māori, stands as the tallest mountain in New Zealand's Southern Alps.…… Discover More

Te Anau to Milford Sound Flights

Experience the spectacular beauty of Milford Sound, New Zealand's premier natural wonder, through an awe-inspiring scenic helicopter flight. Based in Te Anau, we have curated…… Discover More

Scenic Gems Along Alps 2 Ocean Trail

Mt Cook, located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, is a place of unmatched beauty and grandeur. It's the perfect destination for those who…… Discover More

Fiordland – A Hunter’s Dream

Popular for red deer, wapiti, possum and wild pig hunting, Fiordland is a desired destination for many avid hunters with beautiful scenery and untouched nature…… Discover More

Alps to Ocean Journey: What to Expect

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is not only the longest of NZ’s 23 Great Rides, spanning over 300km, but might also be the one…… Discover More

Ultimate Aoraki/Mt Cook Proposal Weekend

Celebrating your relationship and tying the knot with your partner or planning a proposal during a weekend getaway? Aoraki Mt Cook National Park is the…… Discover More

Abel Tasman to Christchurch Trip

All good things come in three, and our ultimate road trip guide for Aotearoa’s South Island is not exception to that. Drive through some of…… Discover More

Wanaka to Abel Tasman Road Trip- Part 2

Let’s continue our great campervan road trip around Aotearoa’s South Island and conquer the West Coast. What feels like untouched landscapes, is ruled by harsh…… Discover More

Christchurch to Wanaka Road Trip- Part 1

Aotearoa’s South Island is the ultimate road trip destination – from the country’s highest peaks to the bluest lakes, cutest penguins and the UNESCO World…… Discover More

  • Stunningly Beautiful. Amazing trip with Heff as our pilot. Scenic views breathtaking & landings amazing. Views can’t be seen anywhere else in the world.

    Melissa – January 2022 – Dunedin, New Zealand

  • WORTH EVERY PENNY! We did the Doubtful Sound flight and it was the most amazing experience I have ever done! Craig was an amazing pilot who was super chill and easy to chat with and made it just that little bit better.

    Mackenzie – February 2021 – Stewart Island, NZ

  • Our photos do not do justice to the feeling of standing what felt like the top of the world. The feeling of total amazement was worth every dollar it cost to do and I’d do it again when we can. This is an absolute must do and I’d highly recommend Southern Lakes Helicopters.

    Phil – August 2021 – Havelock North, NZ

  • Trip of a lifetime!! Pristine wilderness, fab pilot and staff: an experience I will NEVER forget!!! A MUST DO for anyone visiting Fiordland. No matter what your budget, figure out a way to make it happen. A 360 degree sensory experience that will keep you buzzing for days. Do it.

    Susan – September 2020 – Koi Samui


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