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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20 minutes flight, 1 hour total including check-in
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
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.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown
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.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown operates scenic and charter helicopter experiences based in Queenstown, Otago. The Helicopter Line - Queenstown specialises in aerial tours across Fiordland, the Southern Alps and the lower South Island, offering flights to iconic destinations such as Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, Franz Josef Glacier and Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Services include panoramic flights, private charters, glacier and alpine landings, and a dedicated Heli‑Wine Tour that combines an alpine landing with visits to multiple wineries, a paired lunch and a visit to an underground wine cave.
Signature journeys feature the Milford Sound Explorer Charter with three landings including a glacier and an alpine picnic, multiple Milford Sound overflight options, combined itineraries linking Milford Sound with Franz Josef and Aoraki / Mount Cook, and specialised charters to Sutherland Falls and remote West Coast beaches.
Flight experiences range from short Queenstown Panorama routes and The Grand Circle over iconic local terrain to longer scenic combinations that include glacier and snow landings in Mount Aspiring National Park. The Pilot's Choice service offers flexible alpine landings chosen by the pilot for optimal views.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown focuses on safe, guided sightseeing and tailored charters, presenting a variety of ways to see Fiordland, the Southern Alps and nearby wine regions. Information on each trip is provided in individual trip summaries, and bookings depart from Queenstown, Otago. Departure and booking details appear on individual trip pages; departures leave Queenstown heliports and may vary with seasonal schedules and weather conditions.
Location
Queenstown, Otago
Base for scenic flights and charters
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Range from panoramas to private charters
Special Experience
Heli Wine Tour
Includes winery visits and lunch
Alpine Landings
Multiple locations
Glacier and mountain landings available
Reserve scenic flights, glacier landings, private charters or the Heli‑Wine Tour from Queenstown, Otago — see Milford Sound and the Southern Alps from the air.
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.
Warm layers
To stay comfortable during cold alpine landings and fluctuating temperatures.
fall
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
Camera with strap
To capture stunning aerial views while keeping your gear secure in flight.