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Experience breathtaking mountain views and gourmet dining with a helicopter tour that lands you atop the Richmond Ranges near Nelson, New Zealand. Discover why this unique heli-picnic offers a one-of-a-kind escape into nature’s grandeur.
Experience breathtaking mountain views and gourmet dining with a helicopter tour that lands you atop the Richmond Ranges near Nelson, New Zealand. Discover why this unique heli-picnic offers a one-of-a-kind escape into nature’s grandeur.
Book with Helicopters Nelson
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Helicopters Nelson · Nelson, Nelson
Soar above the lush landscapes of New Zealand’s upper South Island and discover a perspective few travelers ever witness with the Heli-Picnic on a Peak experience. Departing from Nelson, a charming city famed for its arts culture and access to outdoor pursuits, this helicopter tour delivers sweeping views of the Richmond Ranges, Marlborough sounds, and the glistening expanse of Tasman Bay. The journey itself is a visual feast, revealing patchworked farmland, dense native bush, and jagged peaks that define this rugged corner of the country.
Once the helicopter lands on a remote mountain summit within the Richmond Ranges, you step into a serene, open-air setting framed by towering native beech trees and craggy outcrops of greywacke rock. The isolation here is palpable—you’re surrounded by sky and alpine vistas, with no trails or crowds in sight. This elevation provides a rare vantage point for spotting regional wildlife, from kea parrots playfully spiraling overhead to the distant silhouette of the Kahurangi National Park ridges.
The highlight of this adventure unfolds with an elevated grazing box picnic delivered to you amidst the clouds. Featuring a well-curated selection of local cheeses, artisan breads, fresh fruit, and your choice of energizing beverages—be it premium New Zealand craft wine, sparkling water, or fresh-pressed juices—this meal becomes a memorable feast infused with panoramic views.
What sets this trip apart is the perfect melding of helicopter access and an authentic backcountry dining experience. Unlike standard hikes or day tours, the Heli-Picnic removes the physical barrier and brings you straight into a place usually reserved for seasoned mountaineers. The operator’s commitment to safety and environmental respect ensures that each landing spot is chosen carefully to minimize impact on native flora and fauna.
Nelson itself complements this adventure beautifully with boutique accommodations, cafes featuring farm-to-table fare, and a vibrant cultural scene that shines after your day in the mountains. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique way to connect with New Zealand’s rugged beauty, this heli-picnic is an unforgettable outdoor experience that turns the journey into the destination.
For those searching for an elevated outdoor adventure combining helicopter flight, pristine vistas, and gourmet picnic pleasures, the Heli-Picnic on a Peak near Nelson is unmatched in the region’s outdoor offerings.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Minimal physical exertion required, suitable for most fitness levels as the landing site is easily accessible from the helicopter
The flight to the mountain peak generally takes 20 to 30 minutes each way, depending on weather and exact landing location.
Yes, the operator accommodates dietary restrictions when notified in advance to ensure everyone enjoys the gourmet grazing box.
Tours may be rescheduled or refunded if weather conditions make flying unsafe; operators prioritize passenger safety.
Children are welcome, but age and weight restrictions may apply due to helicopter safety regulations; check with the tour provider before booking.
No, the picnic site capacity is limited by helicopter seating and landing restrictions for safety and environmental reasons.
Cell service is limited or unavailable at the summit, so plan accordingly and enjoy the remote setting without distractions.
The Richmond Ranges have long been a boundary between Maori iwi and have significant cultural importance in local legends.
The helicopter operator follows strict landing protocols to protect fragile alpine vegetation and minimize noise impact on native wildlife.
Helicopters Nelson is a helicopter operator based in Nelson, New Zealand, offering a wide range of scenic flights, luxury heli-transfers and backcountry experiences. The business operates a varied program of trips from short city scenic flights to full-day Marlborough Sounds adventures, heli-hiking, guided backcountry fly fishing and specialised packages such as reef fishing on D’Urville Island and free-range hunting. Tours include the 10-minute Nelson City Scenic family spin, Marlborough Sounds scenic options, Lord of the Rings landings at Mt Olympus and Mt Owen, Abel Tasman heli-hikes and alpine lake picnics in Kahurangi National Park. Helicopters Nelson also provides luxury landings and transfers to lodges such as Bay of Many Coves, Stonefly Lodge, Okoro Villa, Awaroa Lodge and Westhaven Retreat. The operator highlights culinary and hospitality partnerships on longer trips, for example reef fishing with a beachside meal or transfers that connect guests with local hosts and sustainable eco-stays. Trial flight lessons and vineyard tours are available for those seeking shorter introductions to helicopter flying. Pilots and crew operate to local regulations and focus on passenger safety, comfort and clear briefings before each flight. Helicopters Nelson markets experiences for families, couples, anglers and adventure travellers seeking aerial access to remote New Zealand landscapes. Booking options cover short scenic spins, bespoke luxury transfers and multi-hour guided excursions, all launching from Nelson. The range of tours and clear trip descriptions help guests select experiences that match fitness, time and interest. Customer booking details, safety information and availability are provided on request by phone.
Book with Helicopters Nelson