Queenstown by Air

There’s no doubting that Queenstown is one of the world’s most beautiful locations. The problem is, it’s such a stunningly diverse region that you’ll have trouble seeing all of the breathtaking scenery you want to see – unless , of course, you decide to pack up your life and move here (and many do!). Because of this, we recommend that while you’re visiting this iconic city, you try one of the options that allow you to see all of Queenstown from one location – the air!

Whether you’d like to experience the thrill of hang gliding, a comfortable helicopter flight, an unforgettable hot air ballooning adventure, a paragliding or parasailing experience, or even an adrenaline-fuelled skydiving experience, you’ll be able to see Queenstown from a new, unique angle, taking in more of those scenic views you’re longing to see. For the ultimate in comfort, a helicopter, aeroplane or hot air balloon flight is probably the best choice, allowing you to see more of Queenstown and surrounds in the shortest amount of time. There are a variety of helicopter, aeroplane and hot air balloon flight options available, and these include:

Helicopter Flight - The Remarkables

This short but sweet 20-minute flight will take you over the majestic mountain range of the Remarkables, including the amazing lake Wakatipu. In winter, you’ll even get to experience a snow landing!

Helicopter Flight - Alpine Snow Landing

Want to see the snow but couldn’t be bothered hiking up a great big glacier to do so? No worries – this 30-minute heli flight will take you across unbelievably gorgeous scenery and land you on Cecil Peak, where you can hop out and play in the snow. Awe-inspiring alpine views of Lake Wakatipu will make your day a great one.

Helicopter Flight - Glacier Landing

For 50 minutes, you’ll hover over the spectacular Southern Alps, with phenomenal views of Mount Aspiring. You’ll land on a glacier and have a chance to kick around in the pristine white snow – a truly unique experience.

Helicopter Flight - Milford & Alps

For an amazing one and a half hours, you’ll experience the truly magical views of the infamous Milford Sound. Admire the majesty of Mitre Peak as it juts out of the deep fiords. See the snow-capped beauty of this amazing area and you’ll never forget to appreciate nature again!

Milford Sound Overflight

This two-hour trip takes you over the incomparable Milford Sound in an aeroplane. There’s really nothing like seeing this superb location from the air and a plane flight gives you total comfort and convenience so you can relax and take in the impressive views.

Hot Air Balloons - Sunrise

If you’d like to experience the scenery from the air, but don’t want to be distracted by the sound or speed of a helicopter or aeroplane, then a hot air balloon flight might be more your thing. With nothing between you and the scenery but the fresh, cool mountain air, you’ll witness the glory of the first rays of light warming the mountains, rivers and lakes in the valleys between Queenstown and Arrowtown. You’ll see some Lord of the Ring sites and finish your ballooning adventure with a champagne breakfast. It doesn’t get any better than this