Experience New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes from the sky with The Helicopter Line in Queenstown. Five unique landings showcase glaciers, mountains, and fjords—an unforgettable journey above the wilderness.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most casual travelers, including those with limited mobility
Wildlife
History
The region’s glaciers and mountains have been sculpted over millions of years, forming some of the most iconic landscapes of New Zealand.
Conservation
The Helicopter Line supports environmental initiatives to preserve the fragile ecosystems, minimizing their carbon footprint during aerial tours.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown
Experience New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes from the sky with The Helicopter Line in Queenstown. Five unique landings showcase glaciers, mountains, and fjords—an unforgettable journey above the wilderness.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown operates scenic and charter helicopter experiences based in Queenstown, Otago. The Helicopter Line - Queenstown specialises in aerial tours across Fiordland, the Southern Alps and the lower South Island, offering flights to iconic destinations such as Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, Franz Josef Glacier and Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Services include panoramic flights, private charters, glacier and alpine landings, and a dedicated Heli‑Wine Tour that combines an alpine landing with visits to multiple wineries, a paired lunch and a visit to an underground wine cave.
Signature journeys feature the Milford Sound Explorer Charter with three landings including a glacier and an alpine picnic, multiple Milford Sound overflight options, combined itineraries linking Milford Sound with Franz Josef and Aoraki / Mount Cook, and specialised charters to Sutherland Falls and remote West Coast beaches.
Flight experiences range from short Queenstown Panorama routes and The Grand Circle over iconic local terrain to longer scenic combinations that include glacier and snow landings in Mount Aspiring National Park. The Pilot's Choice service offers flexible alpine landings chosen by the pilot for optimal views.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown focuses on safe, guided sightseeing and tailored charters, presenting a variety of ways to see Fiordland, the Southern Alps and nearby wine regions. Information on each trip is provided in individual trip summaries, and bookings depart from Queenstown, Otago. Departure and booking details appear on individual trip pages; departures leave Queenstown heliports and may vary with seasonal schedules and weather conditions.
Location
Queenstown, Otago
Base for scenic flights and charters
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Range from panoramas to private charters
Special Experience
Heli Wine Tour
Includes winery visits and lunch
Alpine Landings
Multiple locations
Glacier and mountain landings available
Reserve scenic flights, glacier landings, private charters or the Heli‑Wine Tour from Queenstown, Otago — see Milford Sound and the Southern Alps from the air.
Book in advance
Secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability for this popular flight.
Dress warmly
Layers and windproof gear are recommended since the helicopter exposed you to high altitudes and variable weather.
Bring your camera
Capture the stunning vistas from multiple viewpoints—wind and altitude can affect your equipment, so protect your gear.
Check weather conditions
Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Confirm flight schedules and prepare for possible delays.
Warm layers
Keep comfortable during high-altitude flights and variable weather conditions.
winter
Camera
Capture the breathtaking scenery from aircraft and landing points.
Windproof jacket
Protect against wind chill at higher altitudes.
Secure footwear
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking at landing sites.