If you think of unique and luxurious experiences, helicopter rides will come to mind. The, what seems like hassle free, means of transportation lifts up into the sky like an elevator. With the ability to land almost anywhere, you’ll receive 360 degrees of panoramic views. This definitely is a must-do experience, and what better place to do it than in the stunning Aotearoa. We have accumulated a list of our top 5 helicopter tours on the South Island, to make your ride extraordinary.

Fiordland Heli Hike

Dense forests, hidden alpine lakes and stretching mountain ranges make up Fiordland National Park’s astonishing beauty and appeal to outdoor lovers and keen hikers. The Fiordland Heli Hike delivers unforgettable views across the park, and a one-of-a-kind hiking experience. Fly over the remote Kepler Mountains and touch down at the Luxmore Hut. Gaze over the South Arm of Lake Te Anau before beginning your hike on the Kepler Great Walk trail. Mount the Luxmore Summit before descending to the shores of Lake Te Anau. Return to Te Anau via a beautiful boat trip. This trip is truly the all-in-one experience and offers the perfect tasting platter of Fiordland.

Heli Ski in Queenstown

The ultimate experience for the adventurous skier or snowboarder; Heli skiing. Book between 3 to 10 runs of up to 1.3km long treeless slopes. Ski through sheltered basins, bowls, and wide rolling mountain flanks. Helicopter to mountaintops not reachable by lifts and enjoy the freedom to set your own pace. If you are confident and comfortable on the slopes, and if avalanche conditions permit, there is the opportunity to access steeper terrain, chutes, and glaciers, making this truly an unforgettable day of snow adventures!

Alps 2 Ocean Bike Transfer and Glacier landing

One of New Zealand’s most iconic cycle tracks is the Alps 2 Ocean trail. From the highest mountains, past great lakes, and rivers, and down to the ocean, this trail links the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean and is on the bucket list of many bicyclers. And what better way to kick off this amazing journey than by jumping on a breath-taking scenic flight through the Southern Alps, gazing across steep mountain caps, dark valleys, and low clouds. Land and explore the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest glacier, with snow year-round. Once airborne again, get transferred with your bike across the Tasman River to Black Point, the starting point of your cycle journey.

Whale Watching Helicopter Tour

Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island lays Kaikōura. A small coastal town, known for its abundant wildlife and famous for is sperm whale population. Kaikōura is said to be the best place in New Zealand for whale watching and one of the top spots in the entire world! Booking a helicopter ocean safari will give you the ability to observe the amazing wildlife from above, giving you the opportunity to see the entire whale and orbit around them. Depending on the time of the year, you might also be lucky and see Humpback whales, Southern right whales, Killer whales, and even Blue whales!

Try Yourself Out at Flying!

Have you ever wanted to try flying a helicopter yourself? Book a Helicopter Trial Fly and give it a go! Step into the cockpit with your experienced instructor after receiving a comprehensive pre-flight briefing and get guided through the take off. Experience the feeling of complete freedom during your flight and master the landing phases of the helicopter. This can be the dream-come-true experience for yourself, or the best present for your partner, friend, or family member!

New Zealand’s South Island is filled with spectacular spots, unique landscapes, and must-see experiences. Discovering the beauty via a helicopter tour will enable you to observe those iconic spots from a new perspective, finding more details and falling deeper in love with our beautiful backyard.