Kind Reader, if you’re looking for an adventure that will take your breath away, consider taking a helicopter ride in New Zealand. Known for its stunning landscapes and natural wonders, New Zealand offers a unique and thrilling experience that’s perfect for anyone looking to see the country from a different perspective. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family vacation, a helicopter ride in New Zealand is an unforgettable way to explore the beauty of this amazing country.
Best Times to Experience Helicopter Ride in New Zealand
If you are planning to book a helicopter ride, it’s essential to know the best time to go and what to expect during each season. Luckily, New Zealand is remarkable throughout the year, and each season offers fantastic views of the exceptional landscapes and sceneries.
Summer
If you are looking for soaring temperatures, longer days, and clear skies, summer is the best time to take a helicopter ride. From December to February, you will expect the temperature to range from 20°C to 30°C. However, you need to know that summer is considered a high season in New Zealand, so make sure to book your trip early to avoid any disappointments.
Autumn
Autumn in New Zealand is from March to May and is considered another favorite season for locals and visitors to enjoy a helicopter ride. During this season, the landscapes transform themselves with reds, oranges, and yellows on the trees, giving you panoramic views that will take your breath away.
Winter
The winter season in New Zealand from June to August is an excellent time to book a helicopter ride, mainly if you are searching for an unforgettable experience. During the winter season, the mountains are covered with snow, making it an ideal condition for skiing, snowmobiling, and even dog sledding. Book a winter helicopter tour, and you will have a memorable experience exploring the snow-covered landscapes.
Spring
Springtime in New Zealand is from September to November. This season provides incredible opportunities for enjoying helicopter flights over the region’s snow-capped mountain peaks, lush valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. Spring is not crowded, so it’s a perfect time to enjoy the amazing views without the summer crowds.
Avoiding Bad Weather
New Zealand is known for its unpredictable weather, and bad weather can hinder your helicopter ride experience. But no need to worry, helicopter pilots are trained to navigate around and through changing weather patterns, making sure you have a safe and memorable experience.
Important notes:
- Booking early is essential, mainly if you are planning to travel during the peak season.
- The best time to take a helicopter ride is between the months of December to May.
- Check the weather forecast before booking and have alternative dates in case of changes.
Best Helicopter Tour Agents in New Zealand
Are you planning to explore New Zealand through a helicopter tour? It’s an adventure of a lifetime, indeed. You may have already seen stunning photos of the landscapes and scenic views of the country, so what are you waiting for? Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the breathtaking views side-by-side while hovering above. To help you plan your experience, here are some of the best helicopter tour agents in New Zealand.
1. The Helicopter Line
Started in 1986, The Helicopter Line has been providing scenic tours to both New Zealanders and visitors alike. It has 11 bases throughout New Zealand, including Queenstown, Mount Cook, Fiordland and more. If you prefer a solo ride, a private helicopter charter is available to take you on a tailor-made flight route.
2. Heli Tours
Heli Tours offer exclusive helicopter tours to some of the best destinations in New Zealand, ranging from coastline sightseeing to thrilling snow landings and more. They pride themselves on providing top-notch aircraft and professional pilots who are also knowledgeable guides.
3. Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters
This helicopter company is well-known for its breath-taking glacier tours in the Southern Alps. They offer a variety of tours, including glacier landing, heli-skiing, hiking, and more. They also have a Milford Sound tour, which is one of the most popular destinations in New Zealand.
4. INFLITE Charters
If you’re looking for a luxurious helicopter experience, look no further than INFLITE Charters. You can tailor-make your route and select the best aircraft in their fleet, such as a twin-squirrel, Airbus, Bell 427, and more.
5. Garden City Helicopters
Garden City Helicopters offer more than just scenic tours. They also provide specialized services like lifting equipment, mountain search and rescue, surveys, and more. They operate out of Christchurch, Nelson, Greymouth, and Kaikoura.
6. Over The Top – The Helicopter Company
Over The Top is undoubtedly one of the best helicopter tour operators in Queenstown, offering an array of packages, including a spa experience and fine dining. They also offer a personalized tour, where you can create your flight routes based on your preferences.
7. Helicopter Me
If you’re looking for a private and personalized experience, Helicopter Me is perfect for you. They can tailor-make your flight to your liking and preferences. They offer tours that cover Auckland City’s excellent sights, Auckland’s West Coast Beaches, Waiheke Island, and more.
| No | Information |
|---|---|
| 1 | Location: New Zealand |
| 2 | Type of activity: Helicopter ride |
| 3 | Duration: Varies – from 20 minutes to several hours |
| 4 | Price: Varies – from around 200 to 1000+ NZD |
| 5 | Best time to go: Year-round, depending on weather conditions |
| 6 | Popular destinations: Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier, Mount Cook National Park, Queenstown, and Fiordland National Park |
| 7 | Highlights: Breathtaking aerial views of New Zealand’s natural landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lakes, and forests |
| 8 | Recommended for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for a unique perspective of New Zealand |
Helicopter Ride New Zealand: Best Routes for Scenic Views
If you’re planning to take a helicopter ride in New Zealand, prepare to be blown away by the breathtaking views. Known for its stunning landscapes, the country offers a wonderful range of options that will take you over mountains, glaciers, lakes, and beaches.
1. Milford Sound
Milford Sound is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand, and for good reason – the views are simply spectacular. A helicopter ride over Milford Sound is one of the best ways to see and experience its beauty. The ride takes you over the waterfalls, valleys and landscapes that form a part of Fiordland National Park.
2. Mount Cook Glacier
Want to see the glaciers up close? A helicopter ride over Mount Cook Glacier is your chance to do just that. The ride takes you over the Glacier’s crevasses and ice formations, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Helicopter Ride Safety: How to Ensure a Safe Journey
If you’re considering a helicopter tour in New Zealand, it’s essential to prioritize your safety above everything else. Below are some tips that can help you ensure that your journey remains incident-free:
1. Read the safety briefing
The safety briefing from the pilot is essential to ensure your safety while on board. It is essential to carefully listen and follow the instructions provided. The briefing includes information such as what to do in the case of an emergency and the features of the helicopter that you need to understand before the flight.
2. Check the weather
Weather plays an essential role in the success of your helicopter ride New Zealand. Make sure to check weather conditions before the flight. Avoid flying during adverse weather conditions such as high winds or storms, as it can be dangerous and can affect the ride experience.
3. Proper Attire
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and ensure your clothing is comfortable and warm but not bulky. Wear comfortable flat-soled shoes and clothing that won’t get tangled with the helicopter’s moving parts.
4. Follow weight limits
Helicopter weight limits are in place to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew. Make sure you follow weight restrictions carefully and avoid carrying any prohibited items, such as weapons, large bags, or oversized suitcases.
5. Listen to the pilot
Once onboard, the pilot will brief you again and provide information on the flight path and safety features. It is essential to follow the pilot’s instructions carefully during the flight.
6. Keep the doors closed
Keep the doors closed and fastened during the flight, unless otherwise instructed by the pilot. Open doors during a flight make it much more dangerous in the event of an emergency, and you risk losing items from the helicopter such as cameras.
7. Emergency procedures
Know the emergency procedures and listen to the pilot’s instructions in case of an emergency. In the unlikely event of an emergency, your safety will depend on the procedures that you follow.
Remember, a helicopter ride New Zealand can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s essential to prioritize your safety. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and listen to the pilot’s instructions carefully.
Best Time to Take a Helicopter Ride in New Zealand
If you are planning to take a helicopter ride in New Zealand, it is important to know what is the best time to do it. You want to make sure that the weather is good and that you are able to see the stunning views of New Zealand. The best time to take a helicopter ride in New Zealand is during the summer months. From December to February, the weather is usually warm and sunny. This means that you will have clear skies and great visibility for your flight. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time for tourism in New Zealand.
Summer Months
The summer months are the best time to visit New Zealand if you want to take a helicopter ride. The weather in New Zealand during this time is warm and sunny, which makes it perfect for a scenic flight. The average temperature during the summer months is around 20°C, and the days are long with plenty of daylight. This means that you will have ample time to go on a helicopter ride and explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.
Spring and Autumn
Spring and autumn are also good times to take a helicopter ride in New Zealand. During these times, the weather is still mild and the crowds are thinner. You will have a more peaceful and relaxed experience when you take a helicopter ride during these periods. The only downside to taking a helicopter ride during these off-peak seasons is that the weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the weather forecast before booking your flight.
The Best Helicopter Ride Routes in New Zealand
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the scenic beauty of New Zealand, then a helicopter ride is definitely the way to go. Here are some of the best helicopter ride routes to consider:
1. Milford Sound
Milford Sound is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand. With a helicopter ride over Milford Sound, you can get a bird’s eye view of its majestic peaks, lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience that you will never forget.
2. Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is another popular destination for helicopter rides in New Zealand. You can soar above incredible scenery that includes alpine lakes, glaciers, and rolling hills. This route is perfect if you’re looking to get up close and personal with the stunning natural beauty of Fiordland.
3. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
If you’re looking for a more adventurous helicopter ride, then consider exploring Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This route takes you through the heart of New Zealand’s highest peaks and glaciers, giving you an unforgettable view of the Southern Alps. A highlight of this helicopter ride is a landing on the Tasman Glacier, where you can step out onto the ice and take a stroll.
4. Glaciers and West Coast Beaches
For a helicopter ride that combines the best of both worlds, choose the glaciers and West Coast beaches route. This route takes you over the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, before touching down along the rugged West Coast beaches. It’s a journey that will only make you fall in love with New Zealand’s natural beauty even more.
| No | Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 | All helicopter ride routes are weather dependent. It is best to book in advance and keep a flexible schedule. |
| 2 | Bring a camera and capture the stunning landscape on your flight. |
| 3 | Wear comfortable clothing and footwear for the helicopter ride. |
Nature and Scenic Helicopter Rides
The natural beauty of New Zealand is unparalleled, and the best way to appreciate it is from the sky. Helicopter tours offer you the opportunity to view magnificent landscapes, rugged mountains, bays, forests, beaches, and waterfalls, which are otherwise inaccessible to others.
| No | Best Helicopter Rides for Nature and Scenic Views in NZ |
|---|---|
| 1 | The Southern Alps and Glacier |
| 2 | Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park |
| 3 | Mount Cook National Park |
| 4 | Marlborough Sounds |
| 5 | The Bay of Islands |
The Southern Alps and Glacier
The Southern region of New Zealand hosts the Southern Alps mountain ranges with glaciers and snow-capped peaks. The scenic helicopter ride offers breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Tasman Glacier, and many more.
Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park
Milford Sound is located in Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The helicopter ride offers an aerial view of the Milford Sound with its towering peaks, magnificent waterfalls, and beautiful fiords in the national park.
Helicopter Ride New Zealand FAQs
1. Is it safe to fly in a helicopter?
Yes, it is safe to fly in a helicopter. Helicopter companies adhere to strict safety measures and regulations set by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.
2. What should I wear on a helicopter ride?
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes. Avoid wearing loose items like scarves or hats that could fly away during the flight.
3. How long does a typical helicopter ride last?
The duration of the helicopter ride varies depending on the package you choose. Rides can last from 20 minutes to an hour or more.
4. Can people of all ages ride a helicopter?
Most helicopter rides are suitable for people of all ages. However, some packages have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
5. How many people can fit in a helicopter?
The number of people that can fit in a helicopter depends on the model and the weight of each individual. Typically, helicopters can hold between 3 to 6 passengers.
6. Can I bring my camera or phone for photos during the ride?
Yes, most companies allow cameras and phones to be brought on board for photos. However, it is recommended to secure them properly to avoid dropping them during the flight.
7. What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather conditions are not suitable for flying, the helicopter company will reschedule your ride for a later date or offer a refund.
8. Will I experience motion sickness during the flight?
It is possible to experience motion sickness during the ride, especially if you are prone to it. It is recommended to take motion sickness medication beforehand or focus on the horizon during the flight.
9. Can I bring food or drink on the helicopter?
Most companies do not allow food or drink on the helicopter unless it is specified in the package you choose. It is best to check with the company beforehand.
10. Is it possible to customize my helicopter ride?
Yes, some companies offer customized helicopter rides tailored to your preferences or special occasions. It is best to check with the company for available options.
11. How do I book a helicopter ride?
You can book a helicopter ride online or through the company’s booking office. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
12. What should I do if I feel anxious or have a fear of heights?
It is normal to feel anxious or have a fear of heights before a helicopter ride. You can inform the company beforehand, and the crew will provide assistance to ease your anxieties, such as explaining the safety procedures in detail.
13. What happens if I miss my scheduled flight?
If you miss your scheduled flight, the company will try to reschedule your ride for a later time or date. However, some companies may have a policy of no refunds for missed flights.
14. Do I need travel insurance before taking a helicopter ride?
It is recommended to have travel insurance before taking any travel activity, including helicopter rides. Travel insurance provides coverage for unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies or cancellations.
15. Can I cancel my helicopter ride, and will I get a refund?
Most companies have a cancellation policy that varies depending on the package you choose. It is best to check with the company for their cancellation policy beforehand. Some companies offer refunds for cancellations made within a certain period, while others may have a no-refund policy.
If you want to experience breathtaking views of New Zealand’s landscape, book a helicopter ride today.
Happy Landings, Kind Reader!
We hope you enjoyed your virtual tour of the stunning New Zealand landscape from above. It’s an experience you won’t easily forget, and we hope it encourages you to plan a visit to the country and take a real-life helicopter ride for yourself. The thrill of soaring across snow-capped peaks, past ancient glaciers and down into lush green valleys is simply breathtaking. Thanks for joining us and please come back again to read more about amazing destinations and unforgettable experiences. Until next time, happy travels!
