The BEST Queenstown HELICOPTER TOURS in New Zealand

A helicopter tour in Queenstown is an unforgettable experience and offers breathtaking aerial perspectives of the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s South Island. This is a once in a lifetime experience and a must-do if your budget allows it while traveling through New Zealand. There are many options for scenic flights in Queenstown with different Queenstown helicopter operators. In this complete guide, you will find an overview of the best Queenstown helicopter tours including reviews, costs and other important things you need to know about helicopter tours in Queenstown. 

Why should you book a Queenstown helicopter tour?

There are many reasons why you might consider booking a helicopter tour in Queenstown. Here are a few:

1. Stunning scenery: Queenstown is known for its stunning natural beauty, and a helicopter tour provides a unique perspective to see it from above. You can take in breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, lakes, and valleys that are difficult to access by other means of transportation.
2. Adventure: Helicopter tours in Queenstown can also provide an adrenaline rush for adventure seekers. You can take part in activities such as heli-hiking, heli-snowmobile and heli-golfing, which offer a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
3. Customization: Many helicopter tour operators in Queenstown offer customized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. This can include personalized itineraries, specialized photography tours, or exclusive tours to remote locations.
4. Convenience: Helicopter tours provide a fast and convenient way to explore the region, especially if you have limited time. You can cover a large area in a short amount of time, without the hassle of traffic or crowds.
5. Safety: Safety is a top priority for helicopter tour operators in Queenstown. All operators are certified by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority and follow strict safety protocols.
6. Memorable experience: A helicopter tour in Queenstown is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience that creates lasting memories. It offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the region and will be a highlight of your trip.

Overall, a helicopter tour in Queenstown offers an exciting and unique way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful scenic flight, there are options to suit a range of interests and preferences.

12 BEST QUEENSTOWN HELICOPTER TOURS

*Please note that the prices are subjected to seasonal pricing

Half-day Helicopter Tour to Milford Sound Including a Glacier Landing

Tour length: approximately 2.5 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

This is without a doubt the best way to see Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park. Including two landings, this half-day Helicopter Tour to Milford Sound shows you the wild fiords of Milford Sound and includes a glacier landing on the remote Mt. Tutoko.

You will get picked up from your accommodation in Queenstown to board the modern Airbus squirrel helicopter for a 2.5-hour aerial adventure. You will first fly towards Fiordland National Park to take in the mesmerizing landscape of granite cliffs and lush waterfalls along the entire length of the fiords.

In Milford Sound, you will land for a short guided nature walk, including views of postcard-perfect Mitre Peak. Then you will continue along the fiords to land on a beach facing the Tasman Sea. Completely away from civilisation you will feel immersed in nature!

Back on board, you’ll fly above snow-capped mountains and river valleys to blue-green icefalls. You will then land on Mt Tutoko glacier, Fiordland’s highest peak, before returning to Queenstown where you will get dropped off at your hotel by shuttle.

Please note: Glacier landings are subject to weather and flight paths, and landings may change at the pilot’s discretion.

Prices start from $758 USD*

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the exact price and availability for this epic Half Day Milford Sound Helicopter tour

Details Half-day Helicopter Tour to Milford Sound

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off which is wheelchair accessible
• Guide
• Helicopter flight

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This tour is wheelchair accessible
• Due to the comfort and weight/balance of the aircraft, passengers must supply accurate weights upon booking
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• Infant seats are available
• Infant rates apply provided they do not occupy a seat (infants aged under three years old sit on an adult’s lap)

More Milford Sound tours

Looking for other Milford Sound tours? Check out these options:

• Include a Milford Sound Cruise with your Helicopter tour, check this Milford Sound Helicopter Flight and Cruise from Queenstown
• All Milford Sound tours

Mt Cook Helicopter Tour and Ultimate Alpine Experience

Tour length: approximately 12 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

This fully guided day trip combines all the key highlights of Mt Cook National Park with a scenic helicopter flight and a ski plane including an alpine snow landing on the Tasman Glacier! 

You will get picked up from your hotel and depart towards Mount Cook National Park while seeing amazing aerial views of the Lindis Pass, Omarama Cliffs and Lake Pukaki along the way. When arrived at Mount Cook Airport you will change the helicopter for a ski plane for the ultimate glacier experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook! This amazing scenic adventure includes an alpine landing on the Tasman Glacier. You will have about 20 minutes to explore this amazing location. When you get back to Mount Cook Airport you will be brought to Mt Cook village where you’ll have 2.5 hours free time to enjoy the Mt Cook walks or one of the extra optional activities.

Prices start from $425 USD*

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the exact price and availability for this epic Mount Cook Helicopter tour including alpine landing

This helicopter tour includes:

• Pick up and drop off from your hotel in Queenstown 
• Ultimate Alpine Experience Scenic Flights & Glacier Landing
• Snacks and bottled water 

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This tour is not wheelchair accessible
• English speaking guides 
• Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately
• Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour

Tour length: 70 minutes | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Whether you’re into Lord of the Rings or not, this Queenstown helicopter tour is a one of a kind! The fictional “Middle Earth” places used in the famous trilogy are obviously breathtaking sceneries, and seeing them from an aerial perspective with the aerial film pilot for the movie series is something really special and unique! 

You will fly over beautiful Queenstown and see the LOTR places including Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien, the Misty Mountains and the Redhorn Pass. You will also see the mountain range from the opening scene of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’ which is truly spectacular. Furthermore this helicopter flight includes two landings from which one is on a glacier. 

Prices start from $570 USD*

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the exact availability and current prices for the Queenstown helicopter Lord of the Rings tour

This helicopter tour includes:

• 2 landings and facility fees
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Queenstown
• 70 minutes of flight time

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This helicopter tour is wheelchair accessible
• Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers must advise of weight at the time of booking
• This tour will have a maximum of 15 participants
• English speaking guides

Watch this video from our Queenstown helicopter tour experience!

Private Champagne Picnic and Helicopter Tour 

Tour length: approximately 3 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

For a truly romantic experience in Queenstown, the private Champagne Picnic on Cecil Peak and Helicopter Tour is the best pick. You will depart from Queenstown and fly over Lake Wakatipu for some incredible views of the Southern Alps. Then you will land on a scenic plateau on Cecil Peak overlooking Queenstown and the Wakatipu Basin. 

Here you will enjoy your champagne picnic including a platter of local meats, cheeses, salad, fruit and a selection of beverages for as long as you desire. The helicopter will return to collect you when you’re ready and provide you with a bird’s-eye view of Queenstown, before heading back to the heli base.

This is the perfect occasion for a romantic experience for couples. But also with a small group of friends or even a mother & daughter birthday trip for example! 

Prices start from $785 USD *

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the exact price and availability for this epic Champagne Picnic Helicopter tour

Details Private Champagne Picnic and Helicopter Tour 

This helicopter tour includes: 

• Gourmet picnic platter including cheeses, meats, salad & fruit from local sources
• Scenic Helicopter tour from Queenstown over Lake Wakatipu
• Beverages including champagne, beer, water & soft drinks
• Picnic rug, chairs

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things: 

• You will be contacted either the day prior or the day of your booking to confirm the helicopter flight based on weather conditions
• A warm layer is recommended to bring with you as it can be chilly in the mountains  
• Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will be walking in uneven terrain
• This tour is subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund
• This tour will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• The experience is not wheelchair accessible
• Tour is offered in English 

Tasman Glacier Heli Hike Tour from Queenstown

Tour length: approximately 6 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Always dreamed about hiking on a glacier? In New Zealand it’s possible! This epic heli hike tour to Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier, is a once in a lifetime experience. First you will fly in a fixed-wing plane from Queenstown to Franz Josef or Tasman Glacier where you will switch to a helicopter. With this helicopter you will fly up to a landing point high on the glacier, where you’ll go hiking on snow and ice. Wearing crampons, you’ll explore caves and see remarkable landscapes inaccessible any other way. Truly an unforgettable way to experience the glaciers and mountains of New Zealand. 

Prices start from $882 USD*

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the exact price and availability for this epic Heli Hike Helicopter tour

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hiking boots and crampons will be provided
• Fixed-wing plane from Queenstown
• Guided heli hike on Frans Josef or Tasman Glacier 
• Air-conditioned vehicle

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• You can head directly to the meeting point which is near public transportation, or request pickup in Queenstown 
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible
• Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

Doubtful Experience Private Helicopter Charter from Queenstown

Tour length: 3,5 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

For an extraordinary helicopter flight look no further than this private helicopter charter to Doubtful Sound including lunch. The fiords of Doubtful Sound are three times longer and ten times larger than Milford Sound and are much more remote. Therefore this private helicopter tour is a one of a kind including gourmet lunch and wine in remote alpine wilderness. Perfect for a romantic experience or special occasion.

You will get picked up from your hotel in Queenstown by your guide and then head to the helicopter base where your 3,5 hour helicopter flight begins. From Queenstown you will fly west over Lake Wakatipu, above the famous Walter Peak Station and onwards to the stunning waters of Lake Manapouri offering views up the Iris burn, home of the Kepler Track. Across the Wilmot Pass, Doubtful Sound appears. Here you will land amongst the beautiful inlets and dramatic views to enjoy a gourmet lunch and wine. On the way back to Queenstown you can enjoy more outstanding scenery from Fiordland National Park. 

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Guide 
• Private Helicopter flight 
• Gourmet lunch & wine

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• The tour is wheelchair friendly  
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

Check here the exact price and availability for this private helicopter charter to Doubtful Sound

45-minute Alpine Scenic Helicopter Flight

Tour length: 45 minutes | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

For the ones short in time this 45 minute alpine helicopter flight is the best option. During this alpine helicopter flight you will see the best of Queenstown surroundings but it doesn’t take hours of your day. It includes not only an epic alpine snow landing, but will also show you breathtaking aerial views of Queenstown, Skippers Canyon and the Wakatipu Basin. The route depends on the day’s snow conditions, but with year round snow on one of the region’s peaks, snow landings will happen for sure. Including hotel pick up and drop off, this wheelchair friendly helicopter tour in a modern 6-seater Airbus heli is a fantastic value for money experience. 

Prices start from $447 USD

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the availability and secure your spot for the 45-Minute Alpine Scenic Flight from Queenstown

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hotel pick up and drop off in Queenstown 
• Alpine Snow landing with helicopter shut down to experience complete serenity of the surrounds
• English speaking pilot
• Headsets to hear the pilot clearly
• Facility fees

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• The helicopter tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This helicopter tour is wheelchair accessible
• Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers must advise of weight at the time of booking
• Minimum passenger numbers apply for shared flights
• This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will be walking in uneven terrain
• A warm layer is recommended to bring with you

6-hour Helicopter Gin Tour 

Tour length: approximately 6 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Gin lovers attention please! In Queenstown you can book the world’s first Heli Gin tour! This heli tour is a gin-tasting experience that includes a mix of tastings, scenery, fun & education. You will begin your tour with a helicopter flight above Queenstown with a landing on top of the Crown Range. Here you will enjoy your first gin & tonic for the day before flying down the Cardrona Valley. 

At the Cardrona Distillery you will learn about the distillation process and of course continue with a private gin tasting. Then you will continue the tour in a premium Mercedes van to go to The Winery in Arrowtown. Here you can select an array of gin paddles & kick back with a shared grazing board. The last stop of this Gin Tour is a tasting at the Gin Garden by Broken Heart in Arthurs Point. You’ll indulge in a guided tasting of their premium gins before heading back to Queenstown in the Van. 

Prices start from $377 USD

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the availability and secure your spot for the Helicopter Gin tour

Details 6-hour Helicopter Gin Tour 

This helicopter tour includes:

• Scenic 15 minute helicopter flight with mountain top landing 
• Gin tastings at three unique locations
• Snacks
• Air-conditioned vehicle

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things: 

• This helicopter tour is not wheelchair accessible
• Minimum drinking age in NZ is 18 years. Bring your passport or NZ drivers license
• If the helicopter partner cancels due to weather, you can choose to start the tour by road and receive a partial refund. Or you’ll be offered a different date including the helicopter flight 
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

50-minute Glacier Explorer Helicopter Tour

Tour length: 50 minutes | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Explore beautiful Mount Aspiring National Park from the air and get up close with a Glacier. This incredible 50 minute Queenstown glacier flight shows you the spectacular scenery of Mt. Aspiring National Park where you can spot turquoise ice formations, hidden alpine lakes and towering mountains before landing on top of the Clarke Glacier. The pilot will then turn off the engine so you can walk around on the glacier in complete silence. Truly a magical glacier experience and a great way to get a new perspective on New Zealand’s stunning scenery. 

Prices start from $433 USD

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the availability and secure your spot for the 50 minute Glacier Explorer Heli tour

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Landing and facility fees
• Headsets to hear the pilot clearly

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• The tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

Golf and Helicopter Flight

Tour length: approximately 90 minutes | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Golf lovers pay attention! Always wanted to take your golf to a higher level? Well, you can do that literally with this Golf & Helicopter flight experience. You will get transported by Heli to play golf at New Zealand’s most picturesque golf hole at 4,500 feet. With 180-degree views overlooking the magnificent Wakatipu Basin and majestic Southern Alps, this is a hole-in-one of a lifetime to experience one of the world’s most unique golf holes.

Prices start from $365 USD

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the availability and secure your spot for the Gold and Helicopter flight Queenstown

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hotel pick up and drop off in Queenstown 
• Scenic helicopter ride to the tee
• Golf balls & Clubs
• Choose from one of four tee boxes
• Pilot & caddy
• Water 

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Heli pick up and drop off from local golf courses are available at additional cost
• Minimum of two players, non playing spectators welcome
• Allow 1.5 hours with 5 balls 
• Subject to favourable weather conditions. If we are unable to fly due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative flight or full refund 
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time 
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund

Pilot’s Choice 20-minute Helicopter Flight

Tour length: 20 minutes | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Short in time but still want to squeeze in a scenic helicopter flight in Queenstown? Then this 20 minute pilot’s choice helicopter flight is for you! The helicopter tour is called the ‘Pilot’s Choice’ for a reason because it flies over some of the pilot’s favorite areas of Queenstown. You will see the stunning views across Lake Wakatipu to the Southern Alps and then make an alpine landing in the Remarkables, a mountain range that dominates the eastern skyline of Queenstown. The tour includes hotel pick up and drop off, so you don’t have to worry about anything, just enjoy! 

Prices start from $162 USD

Make sure to book in advance as these experiences are sold out quickly!

Check here the availability and secure your spot for the 20 minute Pilot’s Choice helicopter ride Queenstown

This helicopter tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop off
• 20 minute scenic helicopter flight with landing in the Remarkables
• English live commentary on board by your pilot 

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• Warm clothing and suitable footwear is recommended due to uneven terrain and cold temperatures. 
• Moderate fitness is required
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

Heli- snowmobiling adventure

Tour length: 2,5 hours | Rating: 5 stars | Check availability and prices here

Experience New Zealand’s only heli-snowmobiling tour from Queenstown! This thrilling 2,5 hour adventure first takes you on a scenic helicopter ride to the remote Garvie Plateau. Access to this exclusive location is only available by scenic helicopter flight, so you won’t see any other people around. You will then hop on your snowmobile to explore the backcountry while enjoying the incredible views of the Southern Alps and Mt. Cook. 

Your highly skilled guide will adapt the snowmobile ride to varying levels of ability, to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety. 

Only available in the winter months from June until September. 

Prices start from $760 USD

Check here the availability and secure your spot for the heli snowmobiling tour from Queenstown

This helicopter tour includes:

• Use of snowmobile and safety equipment
• Landing and facility fees 
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

Key information:

Right before you book you should know the following things:

• This tour will have a maximum of 6 travellers 
• The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time

FAQ’s Queenstown helicopter tours

Is a helicopter tour in Queenstown worth the money?

Whether a helicopter tour in Queenstown is worth the money depends on personal preferences and priorities. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Unique experience: A helicopter tour in Queenstown offers a unique perspective on the stunning New Zealand landscapes that is difficult to replicate through other means of transportation. The experience of flying in a helicopter and landing in remote areas can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that some travelers may consider worth the cost.
2. Price: Helicopter tours in Queenstown can be expensive, and some travelers may not have the budget to justify the cost. It’s important to consider the price of the tour in relation to other activities and experiences that may be available in the area.
3. Duration: Helicopter tours in Queenstown typically range from 20 minutes to several hours, with longer tours being more expensive. Travelers should consider whether the duration of the tour is worth the cost, and whether they would be satisfied with a shorter or longer tour.
4. Alternative activities: Queenstown offers a variety of activities, including hiking, skiing, and boating, which may provide a similar or equally enjoyable experience at a lower cost. Travelers should consider whether there are alternative activities that they would prefer to do instead of a helicopter tour.

In summary, a helicopter tour in Queenstown can be a unique and unforgettable experience, but whether it is worth the money depends on individual preferences and priorities.

What is the best time for a helicopter tour in Queenstown? 

The best time for a helicopter tour in Queenstown depends on the type of experience you are looking for. Here are some factors to consider.

1. Weather: The weather in Queenstown can be unpredictable, with rain and snow possible at any time of the year. Clear, sunny days with good visibility are ideal for helicopter tours, so it’s best to check the weather forecast before booking a tour.
2. Season: Queenstown has distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience. Summer (December-February) is the busiest season and offers long daylight hours and warm temperatures. Autumn (March-May) is a quieter time with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Winter (June-August) offers snow-capped mountains and skiing opportunities, while spring (September-November) offers blooming wildflowers and warmer temperatures.
3. Time of day: The time of day can also impact the experience of a helicopter tour. Early morning and late afternoon tours offer stunning sunrise and sunset views which are perfect for photography. You might also have better chances of clear skies. Midday tours are usually for the Gin, Champagne Picnic and Gold helicopter tours.

Overall, the best time for a helicopter tour in Queenstown depends on personal preferences and priorities, but clear weather and favorable season are the most important factors to consider. It’s also recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

How much does a helicopter tour in Queenstown cost? 

The cost of a helicopter tour in Queenstown can vary depending on the duration of the tour, the location, and the services provided. Here are some estimated costs for helicopter tours in Queenstown:

1. Short Scenic Flights: Short scenic flights typically range from 20 to 40 minutes and cost between NZD 200 to NZD 500 per person.
2. Longer Scenic Flights: Longer scenic flights that last 1 to 2 hours can cost between NZD 900 to NZD 1,500 per person.
3. Glacier Landings: Glacier landing tours that last 2 to 3 hours cost between NZD 1,200 to NZD 1,800 per person.
4. Custom Tours: Custom tours that are tailored to individual preferences and requirements can cost between NZD 2,000 to NZD 4,000 per person or more.

It’s important to note that these prices are estimates and may vary depending on the helicopter company, time of year, and availability. Some helicopter tour operators also offer discounts for group bookings or off-peak season tours.

See here all tours in Queenstown on Get Your Guide

See here all tours in Queenstown on Viator

Must do tours in Queenstown

Queenstown is the heart of adventure activities, wine tours and is a great base to explore some other places in the South Island. Here are some tours I strongly recommend doing while you’re based in Queenstown.

Scenic Helicopter flight from Queenstown

A must do in New Zealand is taking a helicopter flight. With this helicopter tour from Queenstown you will fly 20 minutes so you can see Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The flight includes an alpine landing in the Remarkables and informative commentary from the pilot. Make sure to book in advance to secure your seat, there helicopter flights are super popular!

→ Book here your helicopter tour in Queenstown via Viator

→ Book here your helicopter tour in Queenstown via GetYourGuide

Shotover Canyon extreme Jet Boat ride in Queenstown

This activity is soo cool and I personally can recommend this strongly. If you love a bit of thrill and adrenaline then jet boating is definitely a must do in Queenstown. The very skilled driver skims the Jet Boat with 100km per hour through the narrow canyon  with 360-degree spins now and then. Guaranteed laughs! Make sure to secure your seat for the jet boat a few days in advance as the boats fill up very fast!

→ Book here your Shotover Jet Boat seat via Viator

→ Book here your Shotover Jet Boat seat via GetYourGuide

Wine tour and tasting with lunch

Go on a journey through the verdant valleys and vine-clad foothills rich in gold mining history and visit some incredible boutique wineries. Enjoy a winery lunch consisting of several tasting dishes each perfectly matched by the Chief Winemaker and Head Chef, using estate wines and fresh local produce.

→ Book here your winery tour including tastings and lunch via Viator

→ Book here your winery tour including tastings and lunch via GetYourGuide

Explore Milford Sound National park from Queenstown

If you want to explore the best of Milford Sound from Queenstown then this tour is for you! There are two options to do this tour.
Option one is by coach from Queenstown to the west coast of Fiordland National Park. During this day tour you will stop at several impressive viewpoints and do the Milford Sound cruise.

→ Book here your Full day Milford Sound experience from Queenstown by coach including cruise

Option two is a scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound, including the Milford Sound cruise and a different flight path back to Queenstown. This is the ultimate Milford Sound experience!

→ Book here your Milford Sound experience from Queenstown by airplane including cruise

Where to stay in Queenstown

As with everything in Queenstown, tours, restaurants and accommodations fill up fast. So to find a great place to stay in Queenstown it is highly recommended to book your preferred accommodation (far) in advance to secure your room. You can always cancel your reservation until a certain date, so don’t wait too long with booking your accommodation in Queenstown.

There is a wide variety of options in Queenstown for every budget. From dorm rooms to super luxury hotels and self contained apartments. Here are our top recommendations.

Luxury stay in Queenstown

The Carlin

The Carlin Boutique Hotel is a 5 star accommodation with very luxury suites overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Some of the rooms even have a private hot tub! With a restaurant, free bikes, a fitness centre and bar you can fully immerse yourself in luxury and the incredible views of Queenstown, the lake and surrounding mountains.

→ Book your stay at The Carlin Boutique Hotel in Queenstown here

Mid Luxury stay in Queenstown

Kamana Lakehouse

Just a little bit out of the city centre you will find this stunning lakeview hotel. Each room features contemporary decor, premium beds and an outdoor seating area. Only a selection of rooms include unobstructed lake and mountain views. Their restaurant The Nest offers unique creations and delicious foraged herbs, seeds and wild ingredients. Even if you’re not staying at Kamana Lakehouse it is worth it to try their restaurant!

→ Book here your stay at Kamana Lakehouse Queenstown

Budget stay in Queenstown

Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park

The Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park has studios with private bathrooms and self contained cabins with kitchenette. It is a family friendly property with kids playground and is close to everything you need in town!

→ Book here your stay at Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park

More New Zealand travel guides

I hope you enjoyed this complete guide about the best Queenstown helicopter tours. Make sure to put this incredible and unforgettable experience on your list when you’re staying in Queenstown!

New Zealand’s South Island is full of many more amazing hikes and things to do. So if you’re looking for more inspiration and ideas of best places to visit, then head over to our other New Zealand travel guides.

Franz Josef

The best Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike Tours

Roberts Point Track Franz Josef – All You Need to Know

Franz Josef Glacier Walk – All You Need to Know

15 best walks in Franz Josef – The Ultimate Guide

Hokitika Gorge walk – The Complete Guide

Fox Glacier walk & Walking on Fox Glacier Guide

Queenstown

16 best hikes in Queenstown – The Ultimate Guide

Moke Lake loop track & viewpoint – The Complete Guide

Queenstown Hill walk – The Complete Guide

Ben Lomond hike – The Complete Guide

Bobs Cove nature walk – The Complete Guide

Glenorchy

20 best things to do in Glenorchy – The Ultimate Guide

Glenorchy walkway & lagoon track – The Complete Guide

Earnslaw Burn glacier valley and waterfalls – The Complete Guide

Wanaka

Roys peak track – The Complete Guide

Isthmus peak track – The Complete Guide

Fiordland National Park

20 best things to do in Milford Sound – The Ultimate Guide

Best Milford Sound Cruises – The Complete Guide

Lake Marian track – The Complete Guide

Mirror Lakes New Zealand – The Complete Guide

Key Summit track – The Complete Guide

20 best things to do in Te Anau – The Ultimate Guide