Discover the stunning waters of Marlborough Sounds with a unique tour focused on sustainable pearl farming and local culture. An immersive experience combining nature, history, and delicious tasting opportunities.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with minimal physical activity involved
Wildlife
History
Arapawa Island has a rich history of Māori settlement and later European exploration, contributing to its cultural significance.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes sustainable practices, ensuring the preservation of local marine ecosystems for future generations.
Helicopters Nelson
Discover the stunning waters of Marlborough Sounds with a unique tour focused on sustainable pearl farming and local culture. An immersive experience combining nature, history, and delicious tasting opportunities.
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.
Base Location
Nelson, Nelson
Operating from Nelson in the South Island
Tours Offered
36
Range of scenic and luxury flights
Shortest Flight
10 min
Nelson City Scenic family spin
Key Destinations
Marlborough Sounds, Kahurangi
Iconic landscapes and national parks
Reserve a scenic spin, luxury lodge transfer or guided heli-adventure — check availability and book your trip from Nelson now.
Dress in layers
Bring layered clothing to stay comfortable as weather can change quickly.
Bring sun protection
Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against sun exposure during the boat tour.
Stay hydrated
Carry water to keep yourself refreshed, especially during warmer days.
Book in advance
Reserve your spot early, as tours tend to fill up quickly in peak seasons.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during outdoor activities.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Offers protection from the sun while on deck.
summer
Waterproof camera or phone case
Keeps your camera or phone dry while capturing scenic moments.
Comfortable footwear
Suitable for boat decks and walking around scenic spots.