Experience the ultimate New Zealand fjord adventure combining helicopter flight and boat cruise in Milford Sound, near Queenstown—an unforgettable journey through rugged wilderness and towering peaks.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking
Wildlife
History
Milford Sound was first charted by Europeans in the 19th century and has been a vital part of New Zealand’s fjord system ever since.
Conservation
The area is protected by strict environmental regulations to preserve its pristine condition, with ongoing efforts to minimize ecological impact.
The Helicopter Line - Queenstown
Experience the ultimate New Zealand fjord adventure combining helicopter flight and boat cruise in Milford Sound, near Queenstown—an unforgettable journey through rugged wilderness and towering peaks.
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.
Dress for changing weather
Bring layers and waterproof gear as weather conditions can shift quickly in fjordland.
Book in advance
Secure your spot early, especially during peak season when tours fill quickly.
Bring your camera
Capture stunning vistas from both the helicopter and boat sections of the trip.
Arrive early
Get to the departure point ahead of time for a smooth start to your adventure.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry during rain showers and splashing from waterfalls.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Camera with zoom lens
Essential for capturing the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
Sunglasses and hat
Protects your eyes from glare during heli- and boat trips.
summer
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust for weather changes in the variable mountain climate.
spring|summer|fall|winter