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Milford Sound Scenic Flights with Southern Lakes Helicopters - Te Anau

Milford Sound Scenic Flights with Southern Lakes Helicopters

Te Anaueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for most travelers comfortable with short flights and mild outdoor activity.

Overview

See Milford Sound from a new vantage point with Southern Lakes Helicopters. This 1 hour 45-minute scenic flight offers unforgettable views of Fiordland’s iconic peaks, glacial valleys, and waterfalls—highlighting the rugged grandeur of New Zealand’s most famous fjord.

Te Anau, Southland

Milford Sound

1 hour 45 minutes • World-Famous, it's Truly Spectacular

Other

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About This Adventure

Milford Sound is world-famous for very good reason – it truly is spectacular!

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

About

Our Piopiotahi/Milford Sound Scenic Flight departs from the Te Anau lakefront and showcases breathtaking, bird's-eye views of some of the highest and most-photographed mountains in Fiordland.

We begin by soaring over the shores of Lake Te Anau to our first landing. It’s a great way to get a feel for our grand Fiordland scenery right from the get-go.

Once airborne again, we fly high above the remote Wick Mountains and the rugged landscapes that surround this range. Look out for Lake Iceberg, which does exactly what its name says – grows icebergs!

Soak up the stunning views of Mitre Peak and Piopiotahi/Milford Sound as they unfold below; we circuit the fiord to follow the route of the Milford Track. Soaring over the McKinnon Pass – one of the tougher parts of the Milford – we land at Lake Quill, a hanging lake that is the source of the famous Sutherland Falls.

Milford Sound itself is 15kms long, running from the Tasman Sea to Deep Water Basin Harbour. It was the location for epic scenic shots in The Hobbit Trilogy; carved by glaciers, it really is deserving of every superlative you can think of. Rich in pounamu, it has an ancient Māori history of intrepid journeys here to gather the precious stone.

Returning to Te Anau, the rugged beauty of Fiordland National Park unfolds before your eyes.

  • The second landing is beside Lake Quill; located in a hanging alpine valley that feeds the famous Sutherland Falls
  • Trust us – Milford Sound’s grandeur is best appreciated from the air!

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 for rapidly changing weather

Fiordland weather shifts quickly; bring layers and waterproof outerwear for comfort during landings and flight.

Bring a camera with a clear lens

Scenic flights provide incredible photo opportunities; protect your equipment from condensation and sunlight glare.

Wear closed, sturdy footwear

Although mostly airborne, you'll have brief landings where stable footing is important, especially near Lake Quill.

Prepare for variable seating comfort

Helicopter cabins can be compact; leave bulky items behind for a comfortable flight.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Fiordland crested penguin
  • New Zealand falcon (Kārearea)

History

Milford Sound holds significance in Māori culture as a pounamu (greenstone) gathering site and was extensively charted in the late 19th century.

Conservation

Flight operators adhere to strict environmental protocols to minimize noise and disturbance in this ecologically sensitive World Heritage Area.

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Adventure Hotspots in Te Anau

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layered clothing

Essential

Helps maintain comfort amid cooler mountain temperatures and wind chill.

fall specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Protects eyes from glare off water and snow during flight.

summer specific

Closed-toed shoes

Essential

Provides secure footing during landings at alpine lake sites.

Camera with neck strap

Essential

Captures stunning aerial views while keeping your hands free and safe.