There is no shortage of ways to explore the adventure capital of the world, but if you want to see the area (including the famous Milford Sound) in all its glory, you need to take to the skies with a Queenstown Helicopter Tour.
While Queenstown is undeniably beautiful from the ground, viewing its jagged peaks, deep glacial lakes, and hidden valleys from a helicopter offers a perspective that simply cannot be matched. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of an alpine snow landing, celebrating a romantic milestone, or wanting to witness the majesty of Milford Sound, booking a Queenstown helicopter flight is the ultimate bucket-list experience.
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about flying with Heliworks Queenstown, the top destinations to choose from, and how to prepare for your unforgettable Queenstown Helicopter Tour.
Not all scenic flights are created equal. At Heliworks, we pride ourselves on providing a luxury, front-row seat to the extraordinary. Our experienced local pilots know the deep south like the back of their hands, sharing stories, history, and geological insights as you soar over breathtaking terrain.
But our biggest point of difference? Exclusivity. We are the only helicopter operator with exclusive landing rights at the spectacular Earnslaw Burn. When you fly with us, you are guaranteed access to remote alpine environments that no other company can offer.
Choosing the right flight depends on how much time you have and what you want to see. Here are our most popular helicopter experiences.
If you want an experience that feels like stepping into another world, the Earnslaw Burn is it. Towering waterfalls cascade down 1,000-metre-high granite cliffs, fed by a massive hanging glacier looming above. Famous for being a filming location in The Hobbit, this hidden valley is only accessible by a strenuous multi-day hike, or a comfortable flight with Heliworks, tag on Milford Sound to make it even more memorable. Because we hold the exclusive landing rights here, you will enjoy this cinematic landscape in complete, uninterrupted peace.
You haven’t truly seen New Zealand until you’ve seen Fiordland. Often described as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” a Milford Sound helicopter flight saves you the 8-hour round-trip drive from Queenstown. On our premium Fiordland’s Finest tour, you’ll cross into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park (external link to the Department of Conservation), flying past the iconic Mitre Peak, the massive 580-metre Sutherland Falls, and touching down on remote glaciers. Book your Milford Sound Helicopter Tour today!
Want to touch the snow, even in the middle of summer? Our Glacier Express flights operate year-round, taking you deep into the mountains to land on ancient, brilliant-blue glacial ice.
If you are visiting between late autumn and early spring, our dedicated epic snow landings offer 30 minutes of pure winter magic. We’ll touch down on a pristine, untouched alpine ridgeline where you can step out, take breathtaking photos, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Book your Glacier Helicopter Tour today!
If you have a packed itinerary, or are making the drive our to Milford Sound instead, but still want that elevated wow-factor by flying in a helicopter, our 20-minute Remarkables Scenic flight or our 45-minute Queenstown Essential tour are perfect. These flights offer incredible aerial views of the Shotover River, Skippers Canyon, and Lake Whakatipu, complete with an alpine landing to capture the moment.
To ensure you have the best possible experience, here are a few insider tips:
Looking to propose? Planning a mountain-top elopement? Or simply want to surprise a loved one with a luxury picnic?
Helicopters aren’t just for sightseeing; they are the ultimate venue. From bespoke weddings and elopements on Cecil Peak to our Paradise Picnic private charters, our team can help you plan an unforgettable, tailor-made experience. We work closely with local photographers and planners to ensure your special moment goes off without a hitch.
Seeing Queenstown from the sky is a memory that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Whether you are looking for a quick scenic dash to the Remarkables or a comprehensive journey deep into Fiordland, Heliworks is here to take you further than anyone else. Book your Queenstown Helicopter Tour with Heliworks today!
Explore all of our scenic options on our website, or contact our friendly reservations team today to book your adventure. Let’s head to the skies!
SCENIC FLIGHTS
DESTINATIONS
COMMERCIAL
WEDDINGS
GROUPS & EVENTS
ABOUT US
CONTACT
Email: info@heliworks.co.nz
Freephone: 0800 464 354
Phone: +64 3 441 4011
HANGAR LOCATION
64 Grant Road, Frankton
Queenstown, New Zealand
© 2026 Action Helicopters Ltd
Website by Webstudio
