Best Scenic Flights in New Zealand – See Aotearoa from Above
Updated: 27th November 2025
Best Scenic Flights in New Zealand – See Aotearoa from Above
From sea to summit, few places on Earth rival New Zealand for sheer scenic diversity — and there’s no better way to take it all in than from the air. Scenic flights lift you over pristine coastlines, rolling farmland, volcanic plateaus, and the majestic Southern Alps, revealing landscapes that unfold like a living postcard below.
Discover New Zealand’s most spectacular aerial adventures — from coastal flyovers and alpine landings to volcano and glacier vistas.
In the far north, fixed-wing flights from the Bay of Islands trace turquoise bays, forested headlands, and remote beaches all the way to Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Across the North Island, floatplanes skim across the crater lakes of Rotorua and Taupō, while helicopters rise over Auckland’s island-studded Hauraki Gulf and the volcanic cones that define its skyline. Every region tells its own story — from coastal sanctuaries to geothermal heartlands and bustling harbours.
South of Cook Strait, the landscape transforms into a masterpiece of alpine peaks, glacial lakes and rivers, and wide mountain valleys. Flights over Nelson Tasman reveal golden beaches and sculpted bays; further south, helicopters sweep across Aoraki / Mount Cook, where ski planes and heli-hiking adventures land amid the Tasman Glacier’s shimmering ice fields. Whether you choose a helicopter snow landing, a fixed-wing journey, or a serene floatplane circuit, each experience captures the drama and beauty of Aotearoa’s ever-changing terrain. Perfect for photographers, romantics, and explorers alike, these sky-high adventures reveal New Zealand from a perspective you’ll never forget.
Best Scenic Flights in New Zealand’s North Island – Beaches, Volcanoes & Islands
New Zealand’s North Island delivers some of the most diverse scenic flight experiences in the country — from shimmering island chains and golden beaches to volcanic craters, geothermal wonders, and rugged coastlines shaped by ancient forces. Whether you lift off from the Bay of Islands, Waiheke Island, Rotorua, Taupō, or Wellington, each region reveals a completely different aerial perspective. See the legendary Cape Reinga from above, circle island-dotted harbours, glide over steaming geothermal valleys, or sweep across volcanic plateaus punctuated by crater lakes and domes. These flights offer a rare chance to witness the island’s natural drama from the best seat possible — high above it all.
Bay of Islands – Salt Air Scenic Flights to Cape Reinga & Beyond
Fly over turquoise bays, secluded islands, and vineyard-dotted headlands with Salt Air, the Bay of Islands’ premier scenic-flight operator. Their fixed-wing aircraft link Bay of islands to Cape Reinga, tracing New Zealand’s northernmost coastline where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean — a journey that includes aerial views of Ninety Mile Beach and Te Paki Sand Dunes before landing for a guided ground tour at the Cape.
For those seeking a shorter or more private adventure, Salt Air’s helicopters lift off from Paihia for spectacular local flights — circling the islands, coastal cliffs, and the famous Hole in the Rock, with the option to land on this iconic offshore island for an unforgettable photo stop. Every flight offers sweeping views across sparkling waters, forested peninsulas, and boutique vineyards that define this subtropical paradise.
Waiheke Island – Scenic Flights Over Vineyards & the Hauraki Gulf
Discover Waiheke Island’s beauty from above with Waiheke Wings, based at the island’s airfield just minutes from the ferry terminal. Their scenic flights showcase golden beaches, olive groves, and world-class vineyards, set against the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Choose from short island loops or extended journeys that reach Rangitoto, Great Barrier Island, and the Coromandel coast, each revealing a different perspective of Auckland’s island playground.
Flights can be arranged for day visitors from Auckland, with easy transfers by ferry or air, making this one of the city’s most accessible aerial experiences. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or simply capturing that perfect photo moment, every flight delivers postcard views across land, sea, and sky.
Rotorua – Volcanic Air Floatplane Scenic Flights
Take off from Lake Rotorua’s calm surface and explore the region’s volcanic landscape from a unique perspective with Volcanic Air’s floatplane flights. These classic water take-offs lead you over steaming geothermal valleys, colourful crater lakes, and the striking ridges of Mount Tarawera. Extended flights reach out across the Bay of Plenty to White Island / Whakaari, offering unforgettable aerial views of the active volcanic crater, safely observed from the air.
Each flight blends tranquillity and adventure — the perfect way to appreciate Rotorua’s volcanic heart from sky to shore.
Rotorua – Volcanic Air Helicopter Scenic Flights
For an even closer encounter with Rotorua’s dramatic geology, Volcanic Air’s helicopters lift you above lakes, craters, and geothermal fields, with the option to land on Mount Tarawera’s summit for a guided walk along its vast volcanic rift. Other routes sweep past the Blue and Green Lakes, geothermal reserves, and out toward White Island / Whakaari, showcasing the area’s fiery energy and contrasting beauty.
These flights offer a thrilling, immersive view of a landscape shaped by the elements — alive with colour, steam, and story.
Scenic Flights Over Taupō, Tongariro & the Central Plateau
The heart of the North Island is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic flight regions, where the deep-blue expanse of Lake Taupō meets the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. From the air you can trace ancient lava flows, crater lakes, steaming valleys and the perfectly shaped cone of Mt Ngauruhoe, with Mt Ruapehu rising above the Central Plateau. Scenic flights here blend alpine drama with geothermal landscapes, offering perspectives you simply can’t see from the ground. It’s also the launch point for heli-hike and heli-bike adventures that access remote parts of the Kaimanawa Ranges.
Taupō – Lake Taupō Floatplane Scenic Flights
Take off directly from the surface of Lake Taupō with Taupō Floatplane, and enjoy an unforgettable journey over the Central Plateau. Flights reveal spectacular views of the lake’s volcanic shoreline, geothermal valleys, and the snow-capped peaks of Tongariro National Park. Popular routes include the Western Bay Scenic, the Volcanic Explorer, and longer adventures that circle Mount Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu — the mountains that inspired Middle-earth’s dramatic landscapes.
Graceful water take-offs and landings add to the magic, making these floatplane flights one of Taupō’s most scenic and accessible aerial experiences.
Taupō – Heli Adventure Scenic Flights
For those who prefer a higher vantage and the thrill of a helicopter, Heli Adventure Flights Taupō offers a range of spectacular aerial tours. Lift off from the Taupō lakefront and fly over thundering Huka Falls, steaming geothermal valleys, and the volcanic peaks of the Tongariro National Park. Choose from short scenic circuits to extended flights that include remote alpine landings or private fly-fishing locations.
Every flight showcases Taupō’s contrasting landscapes — from tranquil lakes and rivers to ancient volcanic peaks — seen from the most exhilarating perspective imaginable.
Ruapehu & Tongariro – Kaimanawa Helicopters Scenic Flights, Heli-Hike & Heli-Bike
Lift off from the Central Plateau with Kaimanawa Helicopters and see Tongariro National Park from a totally new perspective. Scenic flights sweep over Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe, tracing volcanic craters, lava flows and emerald lakes with wide-open views across the Central Plateau and Lake Taupō basin. It’s one of the most dramatic alpine landscapes in the North Island, with your pilot pointing out key landmarks and stories along the way.
Beyond classic sightseeing, Kaimanawa specialises in heli-accessed adventures. Choose a heli-hike that flies you deep into the Kaimanawa Ranges before you walk out through native beech forest, or opt for the Kaimanawa Descent — a heli-bike experience that starts with a drop on the Patutu Tops and follows a flowing downhill trail through alpine tussock and forest back to base. Multi-day packages add remote riverside glamping, combining scenic flight, heli-bike and wilderness stay in one unforgettable trip.
Wellington – Scenic Helicopter Flights Over the Capital & Coast
Take to the sky from the heart of New Zealand’s capital with Wellington Helicopters, departing from Queens Wharf on the city’s vibrant waterfront. Flights lift off above the harbour and central city, tracing the rugged coastline and green hills that frame Wellington’s skyline. Short scenic loops reveal landmarks such as the Beehive, Parliament, and Te Papa, while extended tours venture south across Cook Strait for sweeping views of the Kaikōura Ranges and the dramatic cliffs of the South Coast.
For a truly memorable experience, longer flights can continue across the strait to the Marlborough Sounds, where passengers can enjoy transfers or lunch flights to remote coastal lodges and hidden bays. Each journey combines Wellington’s city energy with the wild beauty of its surrounding landscapes — a spectacular way to see where the North and South Islands meet.
Best Scenic Flights in New Zealand’s South Island – Glaciers, Peaks & Wilderness
The South Island is where New Zealand’s most dramatic alpine landscapes unfold — glacier-carved valleys, towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and the vast wilderness of the Southern Alps stretching from coast to coast. Scenic flights here reveal some of the world’s most spectacular terrain, from the icy expanses of Fox and Franz Josef to the sweeping basins of the Mackenzie Country, the rugged West Coast, and the snow-crowned slopes surrounding Aoraki / Mount Cook. Whether by helicopter, ski-plane, or fixed-wing aircraft, every flight showcases a new dimension of this breathtaking region. It’s the ultimate way to explore glaciers, peaks, remote wilderness, and the pristine beauty that makes the South Island world-famous.
Nelson Tasman – Scenic Flights Over Bays, Vineyards & National Parks
Explore the top of the South Island with Helicopters Nelson, specialists in tailor-made flights that showcase the region’s coastlines and national parks. Departing from Nelson Airport, scenic routes trace the golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park, the deep forests of Kahurangi, and the glacial landscapes of Nelson Lakes. Popular experiences include beach landings, vineyard lunch flights, and heli-adventures that combine short walks or wine tastings with panoramic coastal views.
Every journey reveals why this region is known for its sunshine, blue waters, and unspoiled wilderness — a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure in one unforgettable flight.
Kaikōura – Whale Watching & Coastal Scenic Flights
Encounter New Zealand’s marine wildlife and coastal beauty from above with Kaikōura Helicopters, operating year-round from the Kaikōura township. Flights reveal a dramatic meeting of mountains and sea, where snow-capped peaks rise directly from the Pacific Ocean. From the air, passengers enjoy unforgettable views of sperm whales, dusky dolphins, and New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat, along with sweeping vistas of the Kaikōura Peninsula and coastline.
Beyond whale watching, extended flights explore the Seaward Kaikōura Range, remote alpine lakes, and private mountain landing sites — showcasing the best of both ocean and alpine scenery in a single experience. Every journey offers a new perspective on this unique region, where wildlife encounters and wild landscapes come together in spectacular harmony.
Christchurch Helicopters – Scenic & Charter Flights with GCH Aviation
Experience Canterbury and the Southern Alps from above with Christchurch Helicopters, based at Christchurch Airport. Scenic flights reveal the sweeping plains, braided rivers, and foothills that lead toward the Southern Alps, offering a breathtaking contrast between city, farmland, and mountain wilderness. Short local tours showcase Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula, while longer adventures venture across Arthurs Pass, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and the West Coast glaciers.
GCH Aviation also offers custom charters, heli-wine experiences, and transfers to luxury alpine lodges — ideal for travellers connecting between the South Island’s key regions. With modern aircraft, experienced pilots, and decades of operation, every flight combines comfort, safety, and the freedom to see Canterbury from a whole new perspective.
West Coast – Fox & Franz Joseph Glacier Scenic Flights & Alpine Landings
The West Coast is home to New Zealand’s most dramatic alpine landscapes — where ancient glaciers descend through rainforest to within sight of the Tasman Sea. Scenic flights here combine ice, wilderness, and ocean views in a way found nowhere else on Earth.
Glacier Helicopters – Franz Josef & Fox Glacier Scenic Flights
Lift off from Franz Josef or Fox Glacier with Glacier Helicopters, pioneers of glacier flightseeing on the West Coast. Choose from short scenic flights over the Southern Alps to extended tours with snow or ice landings high on the glacier. Their experienced pilots showcase the scale and power of these living rivers of ice — a breathtaking encounter with nature’s extremes.
The Helicopter Line – Fox & Franz Josef Glacier & Southern Alps Scenic Flights
Step aboard with The Helicopter Line, one of New Zealand’s most experienced and trusted scenic-flight operators. From bases at Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, and Aoraki / Mount Cook, their flights open a world of snowfields, crevasses, and soaring peaks. Every journey rises from lush rainforest into the frozen world of the Southern Alps — where glaciers flow between rugged ridges and sunlight catches on untouched ice.
Their alpine and snow-landing experiences are among the most unforgettable in the country. Passengers step out onto pristine snowfields surrounded by 360-degree mountain views — a moment that feels suspended between sea and sky. For those seeking more adventure, combination flights link the glaciers with the peaks of Mount Cook or panoramic crossings of the Main Divide.
With skilled pilots, modern helicopters, and decades of mountain-flying expertise, The Helicopter Line offers the ultimate West Coast experience — the chance to touch New Zealand’s wilderness at its most awe-inspiring.
Air Safaris – The Grand Traverse of Mount Cook & West Coast Glacier Flights
Take to the skies on one of New Zealand’s most legendary scenic flights with Air Safaris, pioneers of fixed-wing mountain flying for over 50 years. Departing from Lake Tekapo or Franz Josef, the renowned Grand Traverse crosses both sides of the Southern Alps in a single breathtaking journey. Panoramic windows frame Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and the tumbling icefalls of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, revealing the vast scale of the South Island’s alpine wilderness.
Every seat is a window seat, and your pilot’s commentary brings the story of this landscape to life — from the age-old ice of the glaciers to the shimmering lakes and valleys below. Calm, stable, and remarkably smooth, Air Safaris’ flights suit all travellers seeking to experience the grandeur of the Southern Alps in comfort and style. For many, it’s the ultimate way to understand the true scale and beauty of Aotearoa’s alpine heart.
Aoraki / Mount Cook – Scenic Flights, Glacier Landings & Alpine Adventures
At the centre of the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mount Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand and the ultimate destination for scenic flying. Snow-clad ridges, turquoise lakes, and the immense Tasman Glacier create a landscape so vast it’s almost beyond imagination. Scenic flights here reveal the full drama of the Southern Alps — glaciers stretching for kilometres, ridgelines lost in cloud, and the sheer face of Aoraki rising above them all.
Travellers can choose from more than thirty flight variations, combining helicopter, ski-plane, and charter options that range from short alpine circuits to epic crossings of the Main Divide. Whether you want to land on a glacier, circle the nation’s tallest peaks, photograph icefalls and crevasses, or connect from Mount Cook to the West Coast, every itinerary delivers a different perspective on this awe-inspiring region.
The Helicopter Line – Mount Cook & Tasman Glacier Scenic Flights
For more than 40 years, The Helicopter Line has been flying travellers deep into the Southern Alps, offering one of the most iconic experiences in New Zealand tourism. Departing from Mount Cook Airport, flights trace the Tasman Valley before climbing between jagged peaks to reach Aoraki’s glaciated summit region.
The highlight is an alpine snow landing — stepping out onto untouched snowfields thousands of metres above sea level, surrounded by ice cliffs and blue-white light. Longer itineraries link the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman Glaciers, revealing the immense scale of this mountain wilderness in a single sweeping journey. Pilots share expert commentary throughout, bringing the stories of exploration, geology, and natural beauty to life. For anyone visiting the Mackenzie Region, this is the ultimate “top of the world” experience.
Inflite Helicopters – Glacier Landings & Exclusive Alpine Charters
Luxury meets adventure with Inflite Helicopters, offering bespoke scenic flights and private charters from Mount Cook Airport. Their modern helicopters and highly skilled alpine pilots unlock experiences far beyond the ordinary — from snow-landings on the Tasman, Murchison, and Hochstetter Glaciers to heli-hike adventures with glacier guides, photography charters, and transfers to exclusive alpine lodges.
Every flight is tailored to your interests, whether you want to chase the perfect photograph, celebrate a special occasion, or simply immerse yourself in the stillness of the high Alps. The sense of space is extraordinary — endless peaks, glacial valleys, and the turquoise sweep of Lake Pukaki below. Inflite combines professionalism with a personal touch, creating journeys that linger long after you’ve landed.
Ski-Plane Scenic Flights – The Tasman Glacier Experience
Unique to Mount Cook National Park, ski-plane flights offer one of New Zealand’s rarest aviation experiences — taking off and landing directly on a glacier. Operated exclusively within the park, these aircraft glide to a stop on the snow-covered Tasman Glacier, allowing passengers to step out and stand amid a frozen world framed by Aoraki’s towering peaks.
Flights range from short glacier circuits to extended combos that include a helicopter crossover, where you depart by ski-plane and return by helicopter for a dual-perspective adventure. Smooth, quiet, and surprisingly serene, the ski-plane experience captures the timeless magic of the Southern Alps — where the silence is broken only by the crunch of fresh snow underfoot.
Lake Tekapo – Scenic Flights Over Turquoise Lakes & Alpine Peaks
Framed by the snow-capped Southern Alps and shimmering turquoise waters, Lake Tekapo is one of the most breathtaking places to fly in New Zealand. From the air, the Mackenzie Basin unfolds in vast golden plains, glacier-fed lakes, and distant peaks that seem to touch the sky. Scenic flights from Tekapo combine serenity and spectacle — the calm beauty of the high country with the grandeur of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the surrounding glaciers.
Air Safaris – Grand Traverse & Mackenzie Basin Scenic Flights
For over fifty years, Air Safaris has offered travellers the chance to see the South Island’s alpine heart from both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter. Their famous Grand Traverse is a South Island classic, crossing both sides of the Southern Alps for unrivalled views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and the West Coast icefields.
Shorter local flights explore the Mackenzie Basin’s network of turquoise lakes — Tekapo, Pukaki, and Ōhau — while new helicopter options add the thrill of snow or alpine landings high above the Main Divide.
Smooth, stable, and deeply scenic, every Air Safaris experience captures the immense scale and beauty of the Mackenzie Country from a perspective few ever see.
Mackenzie Helicopters – Alpine Adventures & Exclusive Experiences
From their base at Lake Tekapo, Mackenzie Helicopters offers some of New Zealand’s most imaginative and luxurious flight experiences. Choose from classic scenic tours such as the Aoraki Mount Cook Odyssey or Mackenzie & Lakes Alpine Tour, combining turquoise lakes, glacier valleys, and snow landings for panoramic photos.
For something truly special, indulge in their High-Altitude Whisky Hut experience — visiting the world-famous Bad Decision hut, perched at 6,800 feet and stocked with rare whiskies. Or elevate romance with the Alpine Picnic Paradise, where a private flight leads to a secluded mountain landing and a gourmet picnic overlooking the peaks.
Their Ultimate East-to-West Glacier Scenic Flight crosses the Main Divide to reveal both the Tasman and Franz Josef Glaciers, while the Lavish West Coast Cuisine Adventure combines an ocean-to-mountaintop gourmet journey complete with bonfire and chef-prepared meal among the clouds.
Every Mackenzie Helicopters flight blends adventure, elegance, and a deep connection to the landscape — an unforgettable showcase of New Zealand’s alpine wilderness.
Lake Wānaka – Scenic Flights, Alpine Landings & Wild Adventures
Nestled between glacial valleys and alpine peaks, Wānaka is one of New Zealand’s most photogenic regions — and a paradise for flightseeing. From the air, the landscape unfolds in layers: deep-blue lakes, snow-dusted ridges, ancient glaciers, and the remote wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park. Scenic flights here capture the essence of the Southern Alps — pure, wild, and unforgettable.
Wānaka Helicopters – Lake Wānaka, Mt Aspiring & Glacier Landings
Take to the skies with Wānaka Helicopters for some of the South Island’s most spectacular alpine experiences. Operating from Wānaka Airport, their flights trace the shimmering shoreline of Lake Wānaka before soaring into the dramatic landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage area of glaciers, waterfalls, and rugged alpine peaks.
Choose from short scenic flights with alpine landings, glacier adventures deep into the Southern Alps, or extended explorations to Milford Sound, Fiordland, and Aoraki / Mount Cook. With experienced pilots, remote landing opportunities, and year-round access to breathtaking terrain, Wānaka Helicopters delivers unforgettable perspectives of New Zealand’s most iconic mountain scenery.
Alpine Helicopters – Milford Sound, Mount Aspiring & Luxury Adventures
Experience the South Island’s most exclusive alpine journeys with Alpine Helicopters, based on the Wānaka lakefront. Their flights trace the Southern Alps to Aoraki / Mount Cook, Fiordland, and Milford Sound, with opportunities for glacier or alpine landings along the way.
Premium experiences include luxury lodge transfers, heli-hiking, and bespoke charters combining the drama of Fiordland’s waterfalls with the serenity of high-country valleys. For those seeking something extraordinary, Alpine Helicopters also offers fly–dine experiences and private photography tours that showcase the true scale and splendour of New Zealand’s wilderness.
Southern Alps Air – Mount Aspiring & Glacier Flights
Fly with Southern Alps Air, Wānaka’s award-winning fixed-wing operator, for incredible views of Mount Aspiring National Park, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and the glaciers that spill from the Southern Alps. The renowned “World Heritage Experience” flight combines soaring mountain peaks, hidden valleys, and turquoise alpine lakes in one unforgettable circuit.
Large panoramic windows and informative pilot commentary make every seat the best in the house. Whether you choose a short scenic or a longer adventure across the divide, these flights deliver exceptional value and breathtaking scenery from take-off to landing.
Siberia Experience – Fly, Hike & Jetboat Wilderness Adventure
For something truly iconic, embark on the Siberia Experience — Wānaka’s signature fly–hike–jetboat adventure. The journey begins with a stunning fixed-wing flight deep into the remote Siberia Valley, surrounded by glaciated peaks and untouched rainforest. After landing, you’ll hike through pristine wilderness before meeting your jetboat for an exhilarating ride down the Wilkin River.
It’s the perfect blend of scenic flight, on-foot exploration, and adventure — an unforgettable day in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular backcountry settings.
Southern Lakes Helibike – Heli-Accessed Mountain Biking Adventures
Combine adrenaline and scenery with Southern Lakes Helibike, offering thrilling heli-biking experiences in the Wānaka and Queenstown region. Flights deliver riders and bikes to remote alpine trails far from the crowds — from gentle descents through rolling tussock country to advanced singletrack with panoramic lake views.
Each trip is guided, fully supported, and designed for small groups, making it an unforgettable way to combine adventure, fitness, and some of New Zealand’s most remarkable landscapes.
Aspiring Helicopters – Glacier Landing Flights & High Country Adventures
Based in the Matukituki Valley near Wanaka, Aspiring Helicopters specialise in remote glacier landings and high-altitude scenic flights that start here and reach into the heart of the Southern Alps. Their top-tier experiences include the “Glacier Experience” (≈35 mins with one landing around 7,000 ft on Isobel or Tyndall Glaciers) and the “Mt Aspiring & Glaciers” tour (≈1 hr with two landings and sweeping views of Mt Aspiring National Park).
Each flight departs from a private high-country base and combines dramatic mountain ridges, glacier valleys and panoramic photo stops. Whether you’re after a quick snow-landing or a full alpine circuit, Aspiring Helicopters delivers an experience that’s as adventurous as it is scenic.
Queenstown – Scenic Flights Over Fiordland, Glaciers & Alpine Lakes
Surrounded by sheer mountains and crystal lakes, Queenstown is New Zealand’s adventure capital and the country’s most iconic scenic-flight destination. From the air, you’ll see Lake Wakatipu winding through glacier-carved valleys, alpine ridges dusted in snow, and the wilderness of Fiordland National Park stretching to the horizon. Flights here are dramatic, photogenic, and unforgettable — the ultimate way to experience the South Island’s beauty from above.
Heli Glenorchy – Milford Sound, Earnslaw Burn & Fiordland Flights
Fly from the head of Lake Wakatipu with Heli Glenorchy, a locally owned operator offering breathtaking journeys into the untouched landscapes of Fiordland National Park. Flights trace glacier-fed rivers and snow-covered peaks toward Milford Sound, with the option to land beside cascading waterfalls or on pristine alpine snowfields.
Signature experiences include the Earnslaw Burn flight, featuring glacier-fed waterfalls and Lord of the Rings filming sites, and the Milford Sound Scenic Flyer, a full-length journey combining mountains, rainforest, and fiords. Every trip captures the wild, cinematic side of the Southern Alps.
HELIWORKS — Queenstown, Milford Sound & Exclusive Glacier Landings
Experience some of Queenstown’s most premium helicopter adventures with Heliworks, a leading operator known for exclusive landing access, dramatic alpine landscapes, and world-class Fiordland flights. Departing from Queenstown Airport, flights sweep over Lake Wakatipu, jagged ridgelines of the Southern Alps, and the glacier-carved valleys that lead toward Milford Sound.
Heliworks holds exclusive landing rights at the spectacular Earnslaw Burn, where a hanging glacier and towering waterfalls create one of the most cinematic alpine scenes in New Zealand. Other signature experiences include the Milford Heli-Cruise-Heli, remote blue-ice glacier landings, and snow landings high above Queenstown with panoramic views stretching across the Wakatipu Basin.
Whether you’re seeking a short scenic hop, an alpine picnic beneath a glacier, or a full-day Fiordland adventure, Heliworks delivers unforgettable South Island flying at its finest.
The Helicopter Line – Queenstown Alpine & Fiordland Scenic Flights
With decades of experience flying in the Southern Alps, The Helicopter Line offers Queenstown’s most comprehensive range of scenic and charter flights. Departing from the airport or central heli-pads, flights soar over Lake Wakatipu, Ben Lomond, and the rugged Richardson Ranges, with options to land on a high-altitude snowfield or extend the journey into Milford Sound and Fiordland.
From 20-minute alpine circuits to immersive glacier adventures, every flight combines precision flying with sweeping views across peaks, lakes, and valleys.
True South Flights – Fixed-Wing Flights to Milford Sound & Mount Cook
For stunning views in comfort, True South Flights offers fixed-wing journeys from Queenstown to Milford Sound, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and even Stewart Island. Their aircraft feature large windows and personalised commentary, showcasing New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes — from Fiordland’s glaciers and rainforests to the alpine lakes and peaks of the Mackenzie Basin.
Popular trips include the Fly / Cruise / Fly Milford Sound Experience, which pairs a scenic flight with a cruise through the fiord, and the Mount Cook Day Adventure, crossing the Southern Alps for glacier views and optional heli-add-ons.
Glenorchy Air – Fiordland & Aoraki Scenic Flights
Glenorchy Air connects Queenstown and Glenorchy with unforgettable flights across Fiordland, Mount Cook National Park, and the Southern Alps. Their Milford Sound, Routeburn Track, and Aoraki / Mount Cook flights reveal glaciers, lakes, and remote valleys from a breathtaking perspective.
Known for warm, knowledgeable pilots and flexible itineraries, Glenorchy Air captures the spirit of southern New Zealand — adventurous, scenic, and deeply authentic.
Alpine Helicopters – Luxury Alpine & Milford Sound Flights
From glacier landings to exclusive Fiordland charters, Alpine Helicopters delivers a five-star scenic-flight experience from Queenstown and Wānaka. Signature tours include Milford Sound & Fiordland Discoveries, Aoraki Alpine Odyssey, and Lakes & Glaciers Adventure, each featuring breathtaking snow landings and optional gourmet add-ons.
ith luxury aircraft, experienced alpine pilots, and the flexibility to customise every detail, Alpine Helicopters combines sophistication and adventure in equal measure — perfect for couples, families, or private groups seeking something truly unforgettable.
Southern Lakes Helibike – Heli-Accessed Mountain Biking Adventures
For thrill-seekers, Southern Lakes Helibike offers Queenstown and Wānaka’s most exhilarating way to explore the backcountry. Helicopters drop riders and bikes onto remote alpine trails, from flowing downhill runs to high-altitude singletrack with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. Guided by local experts, every descent combines adventure, scenery, and that unmistakable South Island freedom.
Fiordland – Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound & New Zealand’s Wildest Landscapes
Fiordland is a place of superlatives — deeper fiords, higher waterfalls and larger wilderness areas than anywhere else in New Zealand. From the air, the landscape becomes a cinematic sweep of vertical cliffs, roaring cascades, glacier-cut valleys and remote mountain tops accessible only by helicopter. Flying over iconic Milford Sound, mysterious Doubtful Sound and the hidden fiords beyond delivers one of the most awe-inspiring scenic experiences in the country.
Fiordland Helicopters – Milford, Doubtful & Deep-Fiord Wilderness Flights
Based in Te Anau, Fiordland Helicopters delivers some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenic flights, exploring the towering cliffs, deep fiords and hidden alpine basins of Fiordland National Park. Their signature experiences include the Doubtful Sound Discovery and Milford Sound Elite, showcasing Mitre Peak, Sutherland Falls and sweeping glacier-carved valleys.
For those seeking something truly special, The Fjords Extended covers Milford, Doubtful, Dusky and ten remote fiords in a single breathtaking journey. Private charters offer glacier landings, secluded alpine lakes and customised routes into areas accessible only by helicopter.
Fiordland Helicopters reveals the sheer scale and untouched beauty of this world-renowned wilderness — an unforgettable way to experience Fiordland from above.
See New Zealand from a New Perspective
From the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands to the icy peaks of Fiordland, scenic flights reveal the true scale and beauty of Aotearoa. Whether you choose a helicopter snow landing, a floatplane over a crater lake, or a fixed-wing journey across both islands, each flight offers a story written in sky and light.
Every operator featured here has been hand-selected for their experience, safety, and local insight — passionate pilots who turn sightseeing into something unforgettable. You can soar over volcanoes, trace glacier valleys, circle remote islands, or touch down on snowfields where silence reigns.
No matter where your travels take you, there’s a flight waiting to lift you above it all — connecting coastlines, mountains, and memories that will stay with you forever.
Ready to see New Zealand from above?
Explore our featured flight operators, compare regions, and plan your once-in-a-lifetime adventure today.
Scenic Flights in New Zealand – Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a scenic flight in New Zealand and not sure where to begin? This FAQ guide brings together everything you need to know — from the country’s most spectacular flying regions to the unique types of aircraft and experiences available. Whether you’re dreaming of floating above crater lakes in Rotorua, soaring over glaciers in the Southern Alps, or circling iconic volcanoes and coastlines, scenic flights offer one of the best ways to appreciate New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes.
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about choosing the right flight, understanding regional highlights, exploring special experiences like glacier landings or heli-picnics, and discovering how accessible scenic flights are from major destinations. Use these FAQs to help plan the perfect aerial adventure and make the most out of your New Zealand journey from above.
What makes New Zealand one of the world’s best destinations for scenic flights?
New Zealand’s landscapes are incredibly diverse—glaciers, volcanic craters, alpine lakes, pristine coastlines, and vast national parks. Scenic flights offer unmatched views of this dramatic terrain, making the country one of the world’s top destinations for aerial adventures.
Which regions offer the most spectacular scenic flights?
The North Island features coastlines, islands, geothermal valleys, and volcanic peaks, while the South Island is home to glaciers, alpine lakes, and the Southern Alps. Key regions include the Bay of Islands, Waiheke Island, Rotorua, Taupō, Wellington, Nelson Tasman, Christchurch, West Coast, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Wānaka, Queenstown, and Fiordland.
What types of scenic flights are available across New Zealand?
Travellers can choose from helicopter flights, fixed-wing scenic tours, floatplane departures, ski-plane glacier landings, heli-hike combinations, private charters, and snow or alpine landings. Each option offers a different perspective of the landscape.
How can I experience Rotorua’s geothermal landscape from the air?
Rotorua offers floatplane flights over crater lakes, geothermal valleys, and Mount Tarawera, as well as helicopter flights with optional summit landings. Both provide impressive views of volcanic formations and thermal activity.
What are the best ways to explore Aoraki / Mount Cook from above?
Visitors can enjoy helicopter flights with glacier landings, ski-plane flights onto the Tasman Glacier, and combination heli-ski-plane tours. These flights offer panoramic views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Southern Alps, and vast glacier systems.
Are there unique or specialised scenic flight experiences?
Yes. Options include heli-picnics, heli-golf, heli-biking, luxury lodge transfers, ski-plane glacier landings, remote beach landings, alpine whisky huts, fly-hike-jetboat combos, and private charter experiences tailored to photography or special occasions.
Are scenic flights in New Zealand accessible for most travellers?
Most scenic flight operators run from major hubs including Auckland, Rotorua, Taupō, Wellington, Christchurch, Tekapo, Wānaka, and Queenstown. There are options for short introductory flights, full-day excursions, and private charters, making it easy to find an experience to match your schedule and budget.
