How safe are helicopter tours?

Southern Lakes Helicopters prioritizes safety with certified pilots, regular maintenance, and strict adherence to regulations.

What is the best time of year for a flight?

Summer months (December to February) typically offer the clearest skies and best visibility, but tours operate year-round.

Can I customize my flight?

Yes, tours can often be tailored to your interests, whether focusing on wildlife, glaciers, or waterfalls.

Is there a weight limit for passengers?

Yes, weight restrictions apply for safety reasons; check with the operator when booking.

Are flights suitable for children?

Children over a certain age and weight are generally welcome; inquire with the operator for specific policies.

What should I bring on the flight?

Bring layers, camera, and sun protection; bring a jacket even in summer for comfort.

Aerial Wildlife & Landscape Tours with Southern Lakes Helicopters

Te Anau, located in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. Known for its lush forests, rugged mountains, and shimmering lakes, Te Anau is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic views from above. Southern Lakes Helicopters offers a unique vantage point with their scenic helicopter tours, combining the thrill of flight with unparalleled access to remote and pristine landscapes. Their flights take you over the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and deep fjords. The highlight is surely Milford Sound, where sheer cliffs plunge into dark waters, with waterfalls like Stirling and Lady Bowen creating dramatic curtains down the cliffsides. These tours aren't just about the vistas; they reveal hidden corners of Fiordland, showcasing rare flora and fauna such as kea parrots and the elusive Fiordland crested penguin. Owner-operated and dedicated to environmental sustainability, Southern Lakes Helicopters emphasizes eco-friendly practices, making each flight an appreciation of untouched wilderness. Their experienced pilots help demystify the geology and ecology of the region, adding educational value to your aerial adventure. Whether you're a photographer wanting a Bird’s-eye View or an adventurer craving adrenaline, their flights are adaptable and customizable. A 30-minute tour offers a quick thrill, while a longer 1-hour flight dives deep into the heart of Fiordland’s most breathtaking sights. This experience stands out as a premier way to appreciate Te Anau’s remote beauty without the strenuous hike, especially for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. Safety, comfort, and environmental awareness are at the core of their mission, ensuring a responsible way to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic scenery. Southern Lakes Helicopters isn’t just a tour company—they’re guardians of Fiordland’s awe-inspiring landscapes that remind us why this part of the world remains a top destination for adventure and discovery.

Difficulty

Moderate.

Duration

6–8 hours.

Fitness level

Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity.

Wildlife

Kea parrots
Fiordland crested penguins

History

Fiordland has been shaped over millions of years by glaciers, creating the dramatic fjords that attract adventurers from around the world.

Conservation

Southern Lakes Helicopters supports regional conservation efforts, aiming to minimize environmental impact while providing awe-inspiring scenic flights.

Southern Lakes Helicopters operates from Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in Canterbury, New Zealand. The company offers a range of helicopter experiences that include scenic flights, transfers, heli-hikes and alpine landings. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Southern Lakes Helicopters lists multiple trips such as Scenic Te Anau, Mountain Magic, Fiordland Heli-Hike, Twin Lakes Heli Jet, The Works, Tasman Glacier Explorer, Aoraki Panorama, Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate and Southern Lakes Explorer. Service options also include transfer and combined packages named in the trip list, for example A20 Transfer + 50 minute Scenic Flight, A20 Transfer + 40 minute Scenic Flight, A2O Transfer + 30 minute Scenic Flight and A20 Transfer + 50 minute Scenic Flight. The Alps To Ocean Bike Transfers and A2O Transfer + 30 minute Scenic Flight connect mountain flights with cycling starts along the Alps to Ocean route. Fiordland-focused experiences in the offering include Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Doubtful Sound, Doubtful Sound & Milford Sound and History Of Fiordland. Trip design ranges from short scenic circuits to longer explorer routes such as Tasman Glacier Explorer and Fiordland Heli-Hike. Several listed trips reference alpine landings and high country access. Travelers can review the specific itineraries and availability on The Adventure Collective listing. Southern Lakes Helicopters' published trip names and locations make it straightforward for visitors planning flights around Aoraki/Mt Cook and the wider Fiordland and Southern Lakes regions. Detailed booking information, schedules and seasonal availability appear alongside each trip listing on the feature page for prospective visitors worldwide.

Base locationTe Anau, Southland

Tours offered18+

Specialtyairborne-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace