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Soar over Fiordland’s famed lakes and land on granite peaks with Southern Lakes Explorer. Discover why this helicopter tour offers a unique view of New Zealand’s wildest landscapes.
Soar over Fiordland’s famed lakes and land on granite peaks with Southern Lakes Explorer. Discover why this helicopter tour offers a unique view of New Zealand’s wildest landscapes.
Book with Southern Lakes Helicopters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
110 ratings
Operated by Southern Lakes Helicopters · Te Anau, Southland
Experience Fiordland like never before aboard the Southern Lakes Explorer, a breathtaking 1 hour 20-minute helicopter flight that sweeps over two of New Zealand’s most spectacular lakes—Te Anau and Manapouri. Set in Southland’s rugged wilderness, this aerial journey offers a rare vantage point to drink in vast, pristine waters framed by towering mountain ranges that sparked the imagination of Middle-earth creators. From the vantage above, the lacy contours of the shoreline and dense native forests reveal an ancient landscape that feels both wild and timeless.
The highlight of the flight is a scenic landing at Mt Titiroa, a remote granite outcrop renowned for its striking white rock formations sculpted by wind and weather over millennia. This unique geology stands in stark contrast to the deep greens and blues surrounding it, creating an almost otherworldly scene. On foot here, the silence of the wilderness envelops you, broken only by the crunch of boots on rock—a reminder of the vast solitude of Fiordland National Park, established in 1952 and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Southern Lakes Explorer is more than just a tour; it’s an invitation to witness a dramatic natural theater from the sky, appreciating the scale and raw beauty of one of New Zealand’s most revered outdoor locations. Te Anau serves as the gateway town for adventurers, providing comfortable accommodations and facilities close to the landing zone. Travelers seeking a mix of awe-inspiring landscapes and effortless access will find this helicopter experience a perfect complement to Fiordland’s extensive hiking and boating options.
Operated with expert pilots skilled in safe mountain flying, the trip offers opportunities to photograph the vast wilderness and spot native wildlife like kea birds and falcons soaring below. The flights run year-round, adapting to seasonal light conditions—from crisp, clear winter skies to the lush vibrancy of summer. For outdoor enthusiasts and photographers wanting to capture New Zealand’s dramatic south, Southern Lakes Explorer delivers an unforgettable perspective on one of the planet’s most remarkable natural playgrounds.
easy.
1 hour 20 minutes.
No special fitness required; suitable for most travelers comfortable with flights.
Yes, for safety and balance, the operator has a weight limit that will be communicated during booking.
The helicopter can accommodate some mobility aids, but it’s best to inform the operator directly to arrange assistance.
You’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund if the weather prevents safe flying.
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult and meet any age or weight requirements.
Private charters may be available; check with the operator for pricing and availability.
Yes, the itinerary includes a scenic landing at Mt Titiroa to explore the granite formations briefly.
Fiordland National Park, established in 1952, preserves some of New Zealand's most pristine wilderness and inspired parts of the Lord of the Rings films.
Operators follow strict environmental guidelines to minimize noise and disturbance to wildlife during flights.
Southern Lakes Helicopters operates from Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in Canterbury, New Zealand. The company offers a range of helicopter experiences that include scenic flights, transfers, heli-hikes and alpine landings. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Southern Lakes Helicopters lists multiple trips such as Scenic Te Anau, Mountain Magic, Fiordland Heli-Hike, Twin Lakes Heli Jet, The Works, Tasman Glacier Explorer, Aoraki Panorama, Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate and Southern Lakes Explorer. Service options also include transfer and combined packages named in the trip list, for example A20 Transfer + 50 minute Scenic Flight, A20 Transfer + 40 minute Scenic Flight, A2O Transfer + 30 minute Scenic Flight and A20 Transfer + 50 minute Scenic Flight. The Alps To Ocean Bike Transfers and A2O Transfer + 30 minute Scenic Flight connect mountain flights with cycling starts along the Alps to Ocean route. Fiordland-focused experiences in the offering include Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Doubtful Sound, Doubtful Sound & Milford Sound and History Of Fiordland. Trip design ranges from short scenic circuits to longer explorer routes such as Tasman Glacier Explorer and Fiordland Heli-Hike. Several listed trips reference alpine landings and high country access. Travelers can review the specific itineraries and availability on The Adventure Collective listing. Southern Lakes Helicopters' published trip names and locations make it straightforward for visitors planning flights around Aoraki/Mt Cook and the wider Fiordland and Southern Lakes regions. Detailed booking information, schedules and seasonal availability appear alongside each trip listing on the feature page for prospective visitors worldwide.
Book with Southern Lakes Helicopters