THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Take to the skies with Helicopters Nelson for a scenic transfer to Ratanui Lodge, your gateway to Golden Bay’s rugged coastline and Abel Tasman’s pristine wilderness. Discover why this helicopter trip is an elevated start to extraordinary New Zealand adventures.
Take to the skies with Helicopters Nelson for a scenic transfer to Ratanui Lodge, your gateway to Golden Bay’s rugged coastline and Abel Tasman’s pristine wilderness. Discover why this helicopter trip is an elevated start to extraordinary New Zealand adventures.
Book with Helicopters Nelson
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Helicopters Nelson · Nelson, Nelson
Golden Bay’s Ratanui Lodge offers a distinctive gateway to New Zealand’s celebrated Abel Tasman region, combining boutique lodge comfort with unmatched aerial access provided by Helicopters Nelson. This 30-minute scenic helicopter transfer from Nelson Airport sweeps you over the dramatic Abel Tasman coastline, granting breathtaking bird’s-eye views of sculpted granite cliffs, turquoise bays, and the iconic golden beaches that define this picturesque stretch of the South Island.
Pohara Beach, adjacent to Ratanui Lodge, is an inviting base for visitors seeking both adventure and calm. The lodge's proximity to Abel Tasman National Park, one of New Zealand’s most treasured reserves, means that journeys on foot or by kayak start mere minutes from this cozy retreat. With its heli-pad just steps away, Helicopters Nelson offers seamless arrivals and departures, transforming what might be a long road trip into a short, spectacular flight. Guests step off the chopper with coastal panoramas still fresh in mind, ready to indulge in handcrafted meals and unwind in warm, welcoming surroundings.
This trip is notable not only for convenience but for its ability to connect travelers quickly to Golden Bay’s natural wonders. The flight path unveils unique natural landscapes including ancient coastal forest, clear estuaries, and marine habitats teeming with wildlife such as fur seals and native birds. The transfer’s flexibility allows travelers to synchronize flight times with local hikes, beach excursions, or culinary moments at the lodge.
Helicopters Nelson, based out of Nelson Airport, is an integral part of the region’s outdoor adventure scene, elevating accessibility while emphasizing safety and personalized service. Whether you’re a time-conscious adventurer or someone seeking a peaceful escape into nature’s grandeur, this helicopter experience melds efficiency with awe-inspiring views—a standout way to enter the heart of Golden Bay.
easy.
30 minutes.
No specific fitness requirements; suitable for most travelers comfortable with short flights.
Yes, Ratanui Lodge accommodation must be secured prior to confirming your helicopter transfer.
Standard luggage limits apply; please contact Helicopters Nelson if you have oversized or excess baggage.
In case of poor weather, your flight will be replaced with a private road transfer and any fare difference will be refunded.
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, offering incredible aerial views along the way.
Yes, return flights to Nelson Airport are available but must be booked separately.
No, meals and refreshments are not included in the helicopter transfer service.
Golden Bay and Abel Tasman National Park are part of Te Tau Ihu iwi’s traditional rohe, with rich Maori heritage connected to coastal and forest lands.
Abel Tasman National Park is actively managed to protect native species and coastal ecosystems, with visitor programs encouraging low-impact outdoor recreation.
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