Accessibility with Heliworks Queenstown

At Heliworks Queenstown, we are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests. Guided by principles of accessibility and inclusion, we aim to ensure that everyone can participate as independently and safely as possible, with dignity and respect at the forefront of what we do. One of the unique advantages of travelling by helicopter is the ability to access remote, untouched landscapes, making these extraordinary natural experiences more accessible to people of varying physical abilities.

We recognise that accessibility needs vary from person to person. Our team works closely with guests, their families and carers to understand individual requirements and, wherever reasonably possible, remove barriers to participation. We provide clear, upfront information to help you make informed decisions and ensure your experience with us is comfortable and enjoyable.

Our experiences take place in natural alpine environments, which means access may be influenced by terrain, weather, and operational conditions. While we strive to support a wide range of needs, there may be limitations in certain locations or situations.

What We Can Offer:

• Support for guests with a range of mobility needs, including those using wheelchairs or mobility aids
• Assistance from our team when boarding and disembarking the aircraft
• Stepping stools and wheelchairs are available to help with safe and comfortable access upon request.
• The ability to carry select wheelchairs onboard, depending on size and weight, for use at appropriate landing sites

Important Things to Note:

• We operate in remote alpine environments where terrain can be uneven and subject to change due to weather and seasonal conditions
• Not all landing locations are accessible, and in some cases, guests may be unable to disembark the aircraft
• Guests with limited mobility may require a support person to assist with safe boarding and disembarking of the aircraft, as crew are not always able to provide physical lifting assistance
• All guests must be seated in a way that allows clear and unobstructed access to aircraft exits to ensure safe and efficient evacuation if required.
• Accessibility is best supported through advance planning, we strongly encourage guests to share any requirements with us prior to booking so we can recommend the most suitable experience and make appropriate arrangements

Featured Accessible Landing: Earnslaw Burn

Earnslaw Burn is one of our standout landing locations and, where conditions allow, our most accessible alpine experience. Set in a breathtaking glacial valley, this location offers a unique opportunity to step into the landscape while supporting a range of accessibility needs.

In line with accessibility principles that focus on enabling participation and providing clear, inclusive experiences, we work to ensure guests have the information and support they need to feel confident and comfortable throughout their journey.

Why Earnslaw Burn works well for accessibility:

• Spacious, stable landing area – The landing zone provides a relatively wide and flat surface, offering a safer and more comfortable environment for guests to disembark and move around.
• Extended ground time – We allow additional time at this location, giving guests the opportunity to explore, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings at their own pace without feeling rushed.
• Mobility support – Where possible, we can accommodate certain wheelchairs on board and assist with their use on the ground, subject to prior planning and aircraft limitations.
• More manageable terrain – Compared to other alpine landing sites, Earnslaw Burn generally offers more even terrain, making it more suitable for guests with reduced mobility.
• Unmatched scenery – Guests can experience dramatic hanging glaciers, flowing alpine rivers, and towering mountain walls up close — an awe-inspiring setting that combines both accessibility and adventure.

Earnslaw Burn allows us to support a more inclusive experience, giving a wider range of guests the opportunity to safely access and enjoy New Zealand’s alpine environment.

Our team is here to work alongside you, your whānau, or support person to ensure your experience is as comfortable, safe, and enjoyable as possible. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’re always happy to help plan the right experience for you.