Scenic Helicopter Flights in Lake Taupo
Scenic Helicopter Flights in Lake Taupo
Experience Lake Taupō from the air on a scenic helicopter flight offering breathtaking views of Huka Falls, volcanic landscapes, hidden bays, and New Zealand’s largest lake. These scenic helicopter tours provide unforgettable photo opportunities and a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply sightseeing, flying over Lake Taupō is an experience like no other.
Heli Adventure Flights – Scenic Helicopter Tours Over Lake Taupo
Explore Taupō's Majestic Landscapes with Taupo's Scenic Helicopter Flights
Experience Lake Taupō from the air on a scenic helicopter flight showcasing some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes. From soaring above Huka Falls and the Waikato River to flying over volcanic terrain, hidden bays, and Māori Rock Carvings, these scenic helicopter tours offer an unforgettable aerial perspective of New Zealand’s largest lake.
Operated by Heli Adventure Flights, each tour is designed to highlight Taupō’s natural beauty while providing outstanding photo opportunities and informative commentary from experienced local pilots. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an extended adventure, there’s a scenic flight option to suit every type of traveller.
Scenic Helicopter Flight Options Over Lake Taupō:
At Heli Adventure Flights, a range of scenic helicopter tours are available, each offering a unique way to experience Taupō from above:
-
Huka by Heli – A short scenic flight showcasing Huka Falls, the Taupō boat harbour, and the Waikato River.
-
Taste of Taupō – A longer flight featuring Huka Falls, the Waikato River, and the iconic Māori Rock Carvings.
-
Mountain Magic – An extended scenic adventure flying beyond Taupō to explore mountains, rivers, fishing spots, and remote landscapes.
Each flight is guided by experienced pilots who ensure a safe, informative, and memorable experience.
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.
Scenic Helicopter Flights Taupō – 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.
What You’ll See on a Scenic Helicopter Flight in Taupō
Scenic helicopter flights over Taupō showcase some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes from a unique aerial perspective. Depending on your chosen flight, highlights may include the vast waters of Lake Taupō, the power of Huka Falls and the Waikato River, geothermal valleys, crater lakes, and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, including Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe.
Flight options range from short scenic loops ideal for families and first-time flyers to longer alpine adventures and private charters. Whether you’re seeking unforgettable sightseeing, photography opportunities, or a special-occasion experience, helicopter tours in Taupō offer a spectacular way to explore the region.
Plan Your Scenic Helicopter Flight in Taupō
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.
