North Island
Heli Adventure Flights in Taupo: Scenic Helicopter Tours Over New Zealand's Largest Crater Lake
Experience Unparalleled Taupo Aerial Views with Our Premier Helicopter Tours
Explore Taupō's Majestic Landscapes with Taupo's Scenic Helicopter Flights
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Heli Adventure Flights, Taupō’s premier helicopter tour operator. Experience the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand’s largest crater lake and its surrounding landscapes from a unique aerial perspective. Our diverse range of scenic flights caters to all adventurers, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
Discover Our Taupo Scenic Flight Options:
At Heli Adventure Flights, we offer a variety of tours designed to showcase the most breathtaking sights Taupō has to offer:
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Huka by Heli: A 9-minute flight providing a concentrated fly-over of the magnificent Huka Falls, the spectacular Lake Taupo boat harbour, and the sparkling waters of the Waikato River.
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Taste of Taupō: A 15-minute journey exploring beautiful and secluded sights, including Huka Falls, Waikato River, and the Māori Rock Carvings.
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Mountain Magic: A 90-minute tour that takes you over Taupō and beyond to see mountains, rivers, fishing spots, rock carvings, and more.
Each flight is guided by our experienced pilots, ensuring not only safety but also informative commentary to enrich your adventure.
Join us at Taupo’s Heli Adventure Flights and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Taste of Taupo
Waireki at a Glimpse
Price per adult: $261.99
Child: $261.99 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 15 Minutes
Lift off from our helipad and fly over the Huka Falls. Then head up the Waikato River, over Taupo Boat Harbour and south to the famous Maori Rock Carvings.
From there we will take you over some of Lake Taupo’s beautiful secluded bays before we head back to the helipad over the geothermal activity at Craters of the Moon.
Minimum 2 passengers.
Price per adult: $104.17
Child: $104.17 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 7 Minutes
First time in a helicopter? This is the one, short enough to give you the buzz but long enough to enjoy what Taupo has to offer.
Taking off to the South flying over Huka Falls and onwards over Taupo Township and its unique features, Craters of the Moon and finally finishing with a grand panoramic view of Huka Falls as we land back at the pad.
Minimum 2 passengers
Taupo's Best
The Huka Falls By Heli
Price per adult: $525.03
Child: $525.03 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 30 Minutes
From our helipad we fly over Huka Falls and down the Waikato River to Aratiatia dam before heading out across Lake Rotokawa geothermal area and back over the top of Mt Tauhara, taking in the stunning views across the lake to the southern snow-capped mountains.
From there we fly along the Taupo Lake front to Rangataria Point and the famous Maori Rock carvings. Then we fly around the bays to Kinloch before heading over Wairakei steam field and a geothermal power sation with a last look at Huka Falls just be for landing.
Minimum 2 passengers.
Price per adult: $167.29
Child: $167.29 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 9 Minutes
Showcasing the mighty Huka Falls, Taupo Township, Taupo boat harbour and many more of Taupo’s iconic features.
Enjoy a flight over farm land, take in the sights of geothermal power staions and see the flow of the mighty Waikato River.
A flight the kids are sure to remember.
Minimum 2 passengers.
Western Bays Explorer
Loop Around The Lake
Price per adult: $472.43
Child: $472.43 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 27 Minutes
Lifting from the helipad, we track straight over Craters of the Moon and the mighty Huka Falls, heading towards Kinloch where you can spot 2 world class golf courses. We then explore the Western bays and many rivers and secret nooks, turning around over Otoputu Falls cascading into the lake. We fly back to base via the Maori Rock Carvings and Taupo Township.
Minimum 2 passengers.
Price per adult: $703.90
Child: $703.90 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 40 Minutes
Lifting from the helipad, we track straight over Craters of the Moon and the mighty Huka Falls, heading towards Kinloch where you can spot two world-class golf courses. We then explore the Western bays and many rivers and secret nooks, turning around over Otoputu Falls cascading into the lake. We fly back to base via the Maori Rock Carvings and Taupo Township.
Minnimum 2 passengers
The Tongariro Crossing
Mountai Magic
Price per adult: $893.30
Child: $893.30 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 50 Minutes
Scenic & breath taking, this tour is not to be missed!
Fly from our helipad over the Huka Falls and up the Waikato River to Taupo township and along the eastern shore of the lake to Turangi.
From there we fly south to the World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park. Flying through the saddle to Mt Ngauruhoe’s crater and then over the Tongariro Crossing and Mt Tongariro’s new Te Maari crater.
We also get great views of Lake Rotoaira and the hidden Lake Rotopounamu.
We then fly back up the lake shore, over the world-renowned fishing rivers Tongariro and Tauranga-Taupo, across to Rangatira Point via the Maori Rock carvings and back down the Waikato River to our helipad.
Minimum 2 passengers.
Price per adult: $1135.30
Child: $1135.30 (ages 4 to 17)
departs: Select when booking
Duration: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
A flight of a life time!
Starting at Huka Falls, we fly across Taupo township to Rangatira Point to check out the Maori Rock carvings.
From here we head down the east side of the Great Lake and in to the Kaimanawa Ranges where you enjoy a landing at an amazing alpine tussock mountain top.
From there it is on to the World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park flying around Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu’s crater lake.
We then fly over the world-famous fishing location, the Tongariro river.
We then take in the beautiful, secluded waters of the eastern bays before flying via Taupo boat harbour and then back down the Waikato river to our helipad.
2 passenger minimum.
Taupo's Hel Adventure Flights - Customer Reviews
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Kite N. from Auckland, New Zealand
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- August 16, 2024
- “I booked the alpine lunch for my partner’s birthday and it was one of the best experiences we’ve had together. Our pilot, Manny, was amazing! Made us feel safe and comfortable, was very informative and super thoughtful. Picked a nice spot and set up a picnic for us, left us alone to enjoy our date. I can’t recommend this enough. My partner and I are definitely coming back! 10/10 experience! Thanks, Manny & team!!!”
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Emma from Kawerau, New Zealand
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- July 2024
- “Highly recommend doing the mountain magic flight with the alpine landing. Truly was an experience of a lifetime. Amazing pilot full of knowledge of the area. The views were incredible.”
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Parth Sheshodia
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- May 30, 2023
- “10/10, very friendly and accommodating crew and an awesome overall experience, definitely recommend! Cheers!”
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Crezet K. from Tauranga, New Zealand
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- March 7, 2024
- “The trip was a fantastic way to have a bird’s-eye view over Taupo. Was a great experience and recommend it to everyone. It was my husband’s first flight in a helicopter and he enjoyed it tremendously. Great views.”
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Andy from Niagara Falls, Canada
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- February 22, 2023
- “Really cool way of re-experiencing (is that a word) Tongariro Alpine Pass trek. My partner had never been on a helicopter but he had just helped me (drop off and pick up) hike the Tongariro Alpine Pass so this was a perfect two-fer for him. He got to see what I’d seen and done and he got to experience a heli ride for the 1st time… he was thrilled! And I LOVED seeing the hike from the air and reliving the varied terrain from another perspective. VERY Cool!”
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Michael from Australia
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- February 7, 2025
- “Amazing! I organised this as a surprise for my mum’s birthday and she loved it. The views are amazing. Definitely worth it.”
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Chew Sze Ming from New Zealand
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- January 1, 2025
- “Loved the heli ride. Our pilot was very friendly and professional. Would recommend it to everyone!”
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Jacqueline from New Zealand
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- November 25, 2024
- “Wonderful experience. Seemed to have a better view from the left-hand side of the helicopter.”
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Bradley J.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- December 2024
- “An experience to remember – the highlight of the long weekend! My little man (8 years old) who is obsessed with all things flying, didn’t hesitate when I asked him if he wants to go for a heli ride! Process was quick and easy from paying to boarding the helicopter. The tour of Taupo through the air was awesome, seeing all the sites from a different view is amazing. My little guy cannot stop talking about it! Thanks for a great experience!”
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Kirsten H.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- November 2024
- “We had a great flight, it was a spur of the moment decision to go on a helicopter ride (we just stopped at the cafe for a drink!) and we were so happy we went. The pilot was lovely, he pointed out a few interesting things on the flight for us to see, amazing views. Highly recommend.”
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Definitely123
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- October 2024
- “This was awesome. We were well looked after… with clear communication from booking through to the end of the flight. The flight was perfect…..and we BOTH really enjoyed the experience (which was a bit of a surprise as one of us is usually iffy about flying).”
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Katrina from New Zealand
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- January 10, 2025
- “Totally Worth It. I’ve always wanted to go on a helicopter, and now I can say I have! Great pilot/guide, great views, perfect day out with great weather. Would do it again but a longer trip next time. Thanks
Heli Adventure Flights Taupo – Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the scenic helicopter flights in Taupo?
Flight durations vary depending on the tour. Options range from quick 10-minute flights over Lake Taupō to extended 45-minute adventures over Tongariro National Park and the Central Plateau.
What landmarks will I see on a Taupo helicopter tour?
Popular sights include Lake Taupō, Huka Falls, Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro, geothermal valleys, crater lakes, and native forest landscapes.
Are helicopter tours in Taupo family-friendly?
Yes! Many flights are suitable for children and families. Short scenic flights are a great introduction to flying for young ones.
Can I book a private helicopter tour?
Absolutely. Private charters are available for couples, groups, or special occasions. You can customize routes, add landings, or plan a romantic escape.
What should I wear on the helicopter tour?
Dress in comfortable layers and wear closed-toe shoes. A light jacket is recommended, especially for higher altitude or cooler months. Don’t forget your sunglasses and camera!
Is there a weight limit for passengers?
Yes, standard weight limits apply for safety reasons. You’ll be asked to provide your weight when booking, and the team will allocate seating to balance the aircraft.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?
Safety is the top priority. If weather conditions are unsuitable, your flight may be rescheduled or refunded. You’ll be contacted in advance if there are any changes.
How far in advance should I book my Taupo helicopter ride?
We recommend booking at least 1–2 days in advance, especially during summer or holidays. Last-minute bookings are possible, subject to availability.
Where do the Taupo helicopter tours depart from?
Most tours depart from Taupō Airport, just 10 minutes from the town centre. Detailed check-in instructions will be provided upon booking.
Can I take photos or videos during the flight?
Yes! Photography is encouraged, and you’ll have stunning aerial views. Some operators also offer in-flight video packages.
Heli Adventure Flights Taupo – Discover Scenic Wonders by Air
Experience the thrill of flight with a range of scenic helicopter tours over Taupō and beyond. From the mighty Huka Falls to the peaks of Tongariro National Park, these heli adventures offer breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re after a quick scenic loop or a full volcanic mountain exploration, there’s a flight option for everyone.
Scenic Helicopter Flights Over Lake Taupo
Take to the skies and witness Lake Taupō in all its glory—the vast, sparkling blue waters, geothermal shorelines, and mountain silhouettes on the horizon. These flights offer a bird’s-eye view of New Zealand’s largest lake, perfect for sightseeing and photography.
Taupo Helicopter Tours to Huka Falls
Get up close to one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders. Fly over the thunderous Huka Falls and trace the path of the Waikato River as it carves through Taupo’s lush terrain. It’s an exhilarating way to see the falls without the crowds.
Helicopter Flights from Taupo to Tongariro National Park
For adventure seekers and nature lovers, these flights soar over the majestic volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. Capture aerial views of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings), Mount Tongariro, and the snow-capped Mount Ruapehu. Ideal for photography and awe-inspiring experiences.
Best Heli Tours in Taupo for Sightseeing
Choose from a range of sightseeing flights tailored to your timeframe and interests. Whether you opt for a 10-minute thrill ride or a longer alpine exploration, each tour offers something unique—geothermal landscapes, crater lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges.
Taupo Helicopter Rides with Mountain Views
Soar above the rugged ridgelines and volcanic terrain of the Central Plateau. Our mountain-view flights offer a true sense of scale and beauty, allowing you to witness Taupō’s dramatic landscapes from a rare and privileged perspective.
Private Helicopter Adventures in the Taupo Region
Make it personal with a private charter flight. Perfect for couples, proposals, or exclusive group experiences, private heli adventures give you the freedom to explore Taupo’s backcountry in style. Tailor your flight to include remote landings, alpine picnics, or even fly-fishing drop-offs.
Family-Friendly Helicopter Tours in Taupo
Looking for a fun and safe activity for the whole family? Our shorter helicopter tours are designed to be enjoyed by all ages, offering the excitement of flight without being too long for younger passengers. It’s a memorable experience kids will talk about for years!
Book Your Taupo Helicopter Adventure Today
Whether you’re visiting for the views, the thrill, or a special occasion, a helicopter flight over Taupō is one of the best things to do in the region. Choose your adventure and book online today to secure your seat in the sky.
