Helicopter rides

RedBalloon has helicopter rides that are sure to get your spirits soaring. Choose from a range of scenic helicopter rides to discover the scale and grandeur of New Zealand’s epic landscape, creating unforgettable and inspirational bucket list experiences.

Part of the RedBalloon suite of wonderful holiday adventures, these helicopter flights make ideal gifts and moments to celebrate with loved ones.  

Our wide selection includes options for couples looking for flights packaged with winery tours and tastings, while budding pilots can even find the chance to take control with introductory flight lessons. Whatever you’re after, we’ve got an uplifting helicopter flight experience for you!

Are helicopter rides in NZ worth it?

Helicopter rides in New Zealand are absolutely worth it! It’s one of the best ways to discover the scale and majesty of the Land of the Long White Cloud. Still, like everything, it depends on exactly what you’re in the mood for.

Let’s say you’re after the opportunity to soar over the landscape filmed in Lord of the Rings, or you’re looking for a helicopter ride culminating in a hike across a spectacular glacier – well, then we’ve got options for you.

But if you’ve got in mind something a little more sedate – like a helicopter flight for two to a remote location and a romantic picnic and bubbles – then we’ve got something just right for you too.

How much is a helicopter flight in NZ?

With so many ways to enjoy a helicopter flight in New Zealand, there’s inevitably a wide range of pricing on offer.

So, for example, a 15-minute helicopter ride over Wellington will cost in the area of $250. However, a scenic helicopter flight over the Bay of Islands or from Queenstown to the Franz Josef glacier will be closer to $500.

Then there are package offers you might want to give a whirl. It’ll cost around $500 when a helicopter experience is combined with a jet boat thrill ride, while it’ll be about $800 for two people to have a Christchurch helicopter flight plus a romantic vineyard experience. 

On the other hand, a truly unforgettable experience may involve a 1.5-hour helicopter flight over the spectacular Milford Sound for $1,125. Meanwhile, it’ll cost $1,515 for two people to take a breathtaking scenic flight over Christchurch to indulge themselves at Peppers Clearwater, including a tasting platter, three-course dinner, sparkling wine and breakfast.  

Where can I go on a helicopter ride NZ?

There are helicopter rides available just about the length and breadth of New Zealand. Here are some of our highlights:

Helicopter tours Queenstown 

As befits this famous town, there are helicopter rides in Queenstown primed for the adventurer. 

For example, what about a heli-snowmobiling adventure at Garvie Plateau, including a scenic return helicopter flight to a snowmobile base where you’ll ride the trails against a dazzling panoramic backdrop?

Or you could take a full-day tour to discover the Southern Alps beautiful ice architecture, flying over steep mountains and gorges to the upper Tasman Glacier icefall, where you’ll hike the ice caves and crevasses.

Meanwhile, couples may prefer a private helicopter flight to a secluded alpine location, where they can savour a gourmet picnic amidst the pristine wilderness and snow-capped mountains.

Helicopter flights Christchurch

Discover the beauty of Christchurch and surroundings with a scenic helicopter flight. Your adventure could include being whisked to a winery to sample the flavours of North Canterbury.

Or you could be admiring the splendour of the majestic Southern Alps one moment before touching down on the banks of the Waimakariri River for a thrilling jet boat ride the next.

Helicopter flights Wellington

Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over Wellington and its harbour for a new perspective on New Zealand’s capital.

From the air, take in the expansive coastal vista, including views of Zealandia, Matiu/Somes Island and Cook Strait. On the other hand, you may choose to treat your partner to a helicopter ride getaway along the southern coastline for a romantic clifftop glass of bubbles.

Helicopter flights Auckland

With its beautiful city, crystalline waters and unique volcanic landscape, Auckland is the perfect destination for a helicopter ride.

A 20-minute scenic flight is a great way to discover New Zealand’s largest city, taking in popular sights like the Harbour Bridge, Sky Tower, Eden Park and Hauraki Park. You may also choose a gorgeous scenic flight from Auckland to Waiheke Island, where you’ll dine in style at Mudbrick Vineyard with views of the city skyline.

Meanwhile, for those after a more hands-on experience, the choice of Auckland helicopter flights at RedBalloon includes helicopter flying lessons. Alongside a qualified instructor, you’ll take the controls of a Cabri G2 helicopter, learning how to turn, climb and descend while experiencing the excitement of a low-level flight through the Whitford Forest.