Karearea Falcon Experience with Helicopters Nelson
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for most fitness levels.
Overview
Combine breathtaking helicopter flights over Nelson-Marlborough with a rare chance to interact with New Zealand’s karearea falcon. This unique wildlife experience is completed by an optional vineyard tour and wine tasting, making for a perfectly balanced day of adventure.
Karearea Falcon Experience
Be introduced to one of New Zealand's rarest native birds
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About This Adventure
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Nelson-Marlborough Region while getting up close with New Zealand's rare kārearea falcon. Enjoy a private tour at the Marlborough Falcon Trust, where you can interact with these magnificent birds. Optionally, indulge in a vineyard visit for exquisite wine tasting and dining.
Combine birds’ eye views of the Nelson-Marlborough Region with an up-close-and-personal experience with one of New Zealand’s rarest native birds.
Lifting off from Nelson Airport, we head East over the Richmond Ranges to NZ’s largest wine region before landing at the Marlborough Falcon Trust, to be greeted by their ambassador for a private tour of their facilities.
Capable of flying at speeds up to 200 km/h and catching prey larger than itself, the New Zealand falcon is one of our most spectacular birds, assisting wine-makers in the region by scaring off grape-gobbling pests!
Today, only 5,000–8,000 kārearea remain.
Guests are welcomed two at a time into an aviary. Each person will take turns wearing a falconry glove and call a trained advocacy kārearea to fly over and land on their hand.
Kārearea encounters are always subject to the willingness of the advocacy kārearea to ensure we uphold and champion positive animal welfare standards.
Optional Vineyard Visit (please enquire for additional cost): From the Falcon Experience, you have the option of visiting a nearby vineyard for wine tasting and dining.
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance
Limited availability means early reservations are recommended to secure your spot for the helicopter and falcon experience.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Layered clothing and comfortable, sturdy shoes are advisable to handle variable weather and on-ground walking during the falcon trust visit.
Respect Wildlife
Venues enforce strict animal welfare policies; follow all guidelines and staff instructions to ensure a safe interaction with the falcons.
Be Prepared for Weather
Helicopter flights are weather dependent—check conditions and plan for potential rescheduling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Karearea falcon
- New Zealand fantail
History
The karearea has cultural significance in Māori tradition, representing speed and keen sight.
Conservation
The Marlborough Falcon Trust promotes conservation through advocacy, breeding, and pest control initiatives to support local ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nelson
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Protect yourself from variable weather during flight and ground visits.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are important for summer flights and vineyard time.
summer specific
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Required for safely navigating the falcon trust grounds.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture aerial views and up-close falcon encounters.