Scenic Helicopter Flights with The Helicopter Line - Queenstown
Difficulty
easy
Duration
20 minutes flight, 1 hour total including check-in
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Overview
Soar over Lake Whakatipu and the Whakatipu Basin with The Helicopter Line - Queenstown’s panoramic helicopter flight. This 20-minute adventure offers unrivaled aerial views and a peaceful alpine landing surrounded by the Southern Alps.
Queenstown Panorama
For all ages! • 20-minute total trip duration including alpine landing.
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About This Adventure
Experience the stunning beauty of Queenstown from above, soaring over the Whakatipu Basin. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Whakatipu and Glenorchy, followed by a serene alpine landing surrounded by majestic mountaintops and expansive grasslands. This unforgettable adventure combines thrilling flight with tranquil landscapes.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown, where you can soak in panoramic views and a serene alpine landing.
Highlights
- Fly above Queenstown over the Whakatipu Basin and capture the stunning panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu and Glenorchy.
- Experience a serene and remote alpine landing with views of mountaintops, the glacially formed shores and sweeping high country grasslands.
Duration
20-minute total trip duration including alpine landing.
Please allow approximately 1 hour for check-in, safety briefing and your flight.
About
Soar above Queenstown to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. Experience a serene alpine landing with vistas of majestic mountaintops, glacier carved shores, and expansive high-country grasslands.
What's included
- Scenic helicopter flight.
- Alpine landing (possible snow landing in winter).
- Hotel pickup and drop off.
- Informative pilot commentary.
More Info
Get ready! Here’s what you should know
Departure Locations Departs and returns from The Helicopter Line Base, Lucas Place, Queenstown, New Zealand.
Departure Times and check in Please call 0800 500 575 (freephone within NZ) or 0064 3 442 3034 (international mobiles), 24 hours prior to departure to reconfirm your booking.
1 hour prior to departure, please call 0800 500 575 for the final weather check.
Check-in closes 30 minutes prior to departure time.
Weather Your flight is subject to favourable weather conditions; if cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
We recommend booking your flights early in your trip with flexibility for weather changes. We don’t want you to miss out.
What to bring
- Warm clothing.
- Sturdy covered shoes.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Your phone/camera, and a sense of adventure.
Additional information
Flights, landings and routes may vary due to weather and the pilot’s discretion. Flight times are approximate and include your landing.
Minimum passenger numbers apply for flights. Bookings will be coordinated to achieve this where possible.
Prices include concession fees contributing toward conservation and sustainability management.
Drones, iPads and selfie sticks are not allowed on board for safety.
Adventure Tips
Book early and plan for weather
Flights depend on favorable weather; book early with some flexibility to avoid cancellations.
Dress warmly with layers
Temperatures can drop significantly at altitude, especially during alpine landings—layer up to stay comfortable.
Secure your camera gear
Use straps and avoid large loose accessories to keep your camera safe during flight.
Arrive early for check-in
Allow at least one hour before your scheduled flight for safety briefings and preparation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Keas (alpine parrots)
- Red deer occasionally spotted in remote valleys
History
Queenstown’s landscape was heavily shaped by the last Ice Age, leaving behind glacial lakes and rugged peaks that define the region today.
Conservation
The Helicopter Line contributes concession fees towards local conservation initiatives to minimize environmental impact and preserve Otago’s unique ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm layers
To stay comfortable during cold alpine landings and fluctuating temperatures.
fall specific
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Necessary for safe boarding and landing on uneven terrain.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off lakes and snow.
summer specific
Camera with strap
To capture stunning aerial views while keeping your gear secure in flight.