Adventure Collective
Dusky Doubtful Sound Flights with Southern Lakes Helicopters - Te Anau

Dusky Doubtful Sound Flights with Southern Lakes Helicopters

Te Anaueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

Fitness Level

No special fitness required, but stable mobility needed for helicopter landings.

Overview

Take to the skies with Southern Lakes Helicopters for a unique aerial voyage into Fiordland’s Dusky and Doubtful Sounds. This exclusive helicopter tour offers dramatic landscapes, secluded landings, and unforgettable views of New Zealand’s raw wilderness.

Te Anau, Southland

Dusky Doubtful Sound

1 hour 45 minutes • Into the Heart of Fiordland's Remote Wilderness

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About This Adventure

Journey deep into the heart of Fiordland’s remote wilderness: Silent fiords, hanging valleys, waterfalls

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

About

Departing from our Te Anau lakefront helicopter pad, begin by soaring over picturesque Lake Manapouri and above the Kilcoy mountains. A landing is made at Mt Pender, where we shut down the helicopter to enable you to soak up the grandeur of the rohe (area). One of Fiordland’s largest and most remote fiords, 40km-long Dusky Sound is dotted with more than 350 small islands. Access to the sound is by sea or air only – very few people get to experience the beauty of this magical place.

Once airborne again, you’ll fly over three more impressive fiords before descending into Crooked Arm in Doubtful Sound. Doubtful Sound’s Māori name is Patea, which translates as the ‘Sound of Silence’ because of the total serenity that blankets the Sound. Doubtful is long, winding, and home to several stunning waterfalls. While flying up this fiord you’ll detour into a unique hanging valley known as Campbell’s Kingdom, complete with its own lake and waterfall. At this stage, you might want to pinch yourself. This is the dreamy scenery that New Zealand specialises in.

The return journey flies aloft the Main Divide of the Southern Alps with a second landing at Mt Kidd, a remote alpine location with dramatic views.

  • Land at Mt Pender in Dusky Sound, one of our most remote fiords
  • Fly over stunning Campbell’s Kingdom, a unique hanging valley in Doubtful Sound
  • Enjoy a second landing at stunning Mt Kidd

What Should You Bring

• Sunglasses • Closed/covered shoes • Warm clothing - it's usually cooler on the mountain tops so wear a couple of layers • Camera for those Instagram worthy shots but please no drones or selfie sticks • A big smile!

Weather Updates & Travel Information

The weather we experience in Fiordland National Park can change quickly, therefore if flying conditions are not suitable, we may have to reschedule or cancel your flight. We will check weather conditions the day before your flight and contact you if we have any concerns. Rest assured that tours booked directly with us are fully refundable if there is a cancellation due to the weather.

More info

• All prices listed are Share with Others. If you would prefer to book an exclusive private flight, please let us know at the time of booking and we will confirm the cost with you. • Please note that all flights are subject to change and weather conditions. We reserve the right to cancel, reschedule, or refund your booking if the minimum number of participants is not met. We require a minimum of 2 passenger fares for Te Anau flights.

Adventure Tips

Dress in Layers

Weather atop the fiords can be cool; bring warm layers to stay comfortable during landings and flights.

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Closed, covered shoes are necessary for safe landings at Mt Pender and Mt Kidd.

Bring a Camera

Capture dramatic fiord landscapes, but avoid drones or selfie sticks to comply with safety regulations.

Check Weather Conditions

Fiordland weather shifts rapidly—confirm flight status the day before and prepare for possible rescheduling.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Fiordland crested penguins
  • Rare native dolphins in the fiords

History

Dusky Sound was first charted by Captain Cook in the 18th century and remains among New Zealand’s most isolated wilderness regions.

Conservation

Southern Lakes Helicopters emphasize minimal environmental impact, adhering to strict guidelines to protect Fiordland’s fragile ecosystems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Te Anau

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layered clothing

Essential

Protects against variable temperatures during flights and landings.

all specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare from water and snow during flight.

all specific

Sturdy closed-toe shoes

Essential

Ensures safe footing during brief landings on uneven terrain.

all specific

Camera

For capturing Fiordland’s stunning aerial vistas.

all specific