Heliworks Queenstown Helicopters

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Heliworks Queenstown Helicopters

Doubtful Sound Discovery

 

Doubtful Sound Helicopter Tour

Doubtful Sound stands out as one of Fiordland’s most secluded gems. With its still waters and towering cliffs, it offers a quieter, more peaceful experience compared to Milford. Its remote location makes it difficult to reach, which is exactly why it feels so special.

The journey begins in Queenstown. From there, the helicopter lifts off and heads south. First, you cross over Lake Whakatipu. Next, the Mavora Lakes glide beneath you. As you enter Fiordland National Park, the scenery gradually grows wilder. Alpine lakes appear nestled between ridgelines, and forested valleys stretch towards the coast.

Before long, Doubtful Sound comes into view. Deep Fiord waters are framed by steep cliffs and thick native bush. Wildlife often makes an appearance. You may spot seals resting on rocks or pods of dolphins playing nearby. In the air, Kea, Kererū, and hawks sometimes soar above.

Then, the flight turns inland to reveal a hidden valley called Campbell’s Kingdom. This untouched spot features a crystal-clear glacial lake at its centre and a waterfall tumbling down the mountainside. It feels quiet and completely wild.

On the return trip to Queenstown, even more spectacular views unfold. Lake Manapouri appears in the distance. Finally, the helicopter lands high in the mountains, overlooking the Whakatipu Basin. It’s a peaceful and unforgettable end to an extraordinary day exploring Fiordland.

For those who want to experience even more, this flight can be upgraded to include Milford Sound. This combined journey offers two of Fiordland’s most iconic locations in one incredible flight — perfect for anyone wanting to see it all from above.

Why Fly to Doubtful Sound with Heliworks?

  • Discover one of New Zealand’s most remote and scenic Fiords
  • Enjoy two unique landing locations including Campbell’s Kingdom
  • Spot dolphins, seals, and native birdlife from the air
  • Explore Fiordland without the crowds of Milford Sound
  • Take in unforgettable views across lakes, valleys, and alpine peaks

 


2.75 hour experience


2 Scenic Landings


Waterfalls


Mountains


Lakes

This experience is only available as a private charter. We have private charter rates available for our Squirrel helicopters, our twin-engine Squirrels and our 9-seater BK.

Find out more about our fleet.

Squirrel (up to 6 passengers): $11,575 per helicopter

H130 (up to 6 passengers): $14,555 per helicopter

BK117 (up to 9 passengers): $23,540 per helicopter

Prices are valid from 1 April 2026 - 30 September 2027. On our shared departures, you may be in a helicopter with up to 9 people.

We offer complimentary return transport from downtown Queenstown, near the Athol Street bus stop. Please make sure to book this in addition to your flight experience. If you are self-driving, we are based in Frankton and we have plenty of parking available.

  • Wear comfortable covered shoes
  • Bring along or wear warm clothing, including a jacket
  • Remember to bring your camera, sunscreen and sunglasses

Bookings
• We recommend booking in advance via our online booking calendar.
• For the purpose of aircraft weight and balance and in accordance with the Civil Aviation Authority rules and regulations, we require all passenger weights at the time of booking. Once we have received and reviewed this information we will be able to confirm the booking.
• Our booking system will ask for your credit card details, which are securely stored to confirm your booking, however we will not charge your card until the day of your booking.
• Please note a surcharge will be incurred for credit and contactless payments.

Your flight
• You will need to contact us one hour prior to your departure time for a weather check.
• Flights depart on demand and are subject to availability.
• Flights depart from our Heliworks Queenstown base in Frankton.
• Advertised times away, flight and landing times are approximate and can be subject to weather conditions. On occasion, flight paths and landing locations may change at the pilot’s discretion.

Pricing
• Our prices change annually from 1 October. Please select your preferred date of travel on our booking system or view the pricing section to view pricing schedules.
• Prices are in NZ currency and include Goods and Services Tax.
• We reserve the right to change prices at any time without further notice. However, if we have confirmed an advance booking the quoted price will not be altered.

Payments
• We accept EFTPOS, Visa, Mastercard and cash. Please note a surcharge will be incurred for credit and contactless payments.

Cancellations
• Any cancellations made within 24 hours of departure will incur a 50% cancellation fee. If passengers ‘no-show’ for a flight, 100% of the fare will apply. If we cannot operate due to weather and as a result, passengers are unable to fly, no cancellation fees will apply.

 

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