20-Minute Remarkables Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

Experience the Majesty of Queenstown from the Air on a 20-Minute Helicopter Tour of the Remarkables

Imagine soaring high above the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, where rugged mountain peaks, shimmering lakes, and expansive vistas unfold beneath your feet. For those seeking a quick yet unforgettable taste of Queenstown’s natural beauty, the 20-minute Remarkables Helicopter Tour offers a chance to see the region from a perspective that’s both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. Priced at around $169.53 per person, this tour packs in remarkable scenery, a mountain landing, and the comfort of hotel pickup, making it a fantastic highlight of any Queenstown trip.

What we love about this experience are two key features: first, the spectacular aerial views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains, which are truly postcard-perfect; and second, the Remarkables mountain landing, giving you a chance to step onto a mountain spur at 5,000 feet — a rare opportunity to stand on top of the world. That said, a potential consideration is the limited flight duration—20 minutes might feel brief if you’re eager to soak in every detail, but it’s enough to create a lasting memory. This tour is ideal for travelers who want an intense, scenic thrill without a long commitment, especially those who appreciate photography and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Fly over Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps, with panoramic vistas that are hard to beat.
• Mountain Landing: Experience a 10-minute stop on a Remarkables spur, perfect for photos and taking in the snow-capped surroundings.
• Expert Pilot: Tour reviews highlight knowledgeable guides like Jack, who make the flight safe and engaging.
• Convenient & Comfortable: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, and modern helicopters ensure a smooth ride.
• Great Value: At just 20 minutes, this tour offers impressive scenery at a reasonable price considering the exclusivity of a helicopter experience.
• Authentic Experience: The landing and aerial narration make this tour feel personal and immersive.

A Closer Look at the Remarkables Helicopter Tour

What’s Included in the Tour

This tour begins with hotel pickup from centrally located Queenstown accommodations, which is a real perk considering how easy it makes joining the experience. Once at the helicopter base, you’ll check in and get comfortable in the modern Airbus Squirrel helicopter, renowned for its reliability and quiet operation. You’ll be provided with headsets so you can clearly hear your pilot’s commentary — a feature that makes a big difference in understanding the landscape and learning about what you’re seeing.

The flight itself lasts approximately 20 minutes, during which you’ll traverse some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery. The highlight is the landing on a spur overlooking Queenstown, Coronet Peak, and Cecil Peak. With a 10-minute stop, you’ll have ample time to take photos, marvel at the snow-covered peaks, and appreciate the panoramic views that stretch across the Wakatipu basin.

The Itinerary and Scenic Highlights

The tour kicks off with a scenic takeoff from Frankton, ascending over the town and Lake Wakatipu. As the helicopter gains altitude, the views become increasingly spectacular, revealing a rugged landscape of jagged peaks and pristine lakes.

The main attraction is the landing on the Remarkables spur, where you’ll be at roughly 5,000 feet. From this vantage point, you’ll see Queenstown, the surrounding peaks, and in the distance, the snow-dusted summit of Coronet Peak. Many reviews praise this stop, with one stating, “the stop at the top of the mountain was a great bonus,” and another mentioning the “amazing scenery” that rivaled the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.

After your time on the mountain, you’ll reboard the helicopter and complete your scenic return flight, flying over the lake and the dramatic mountain range once more before returning to the base. The total experience lasts about 20 minutes, a perfect window to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Pilot and Safety

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the pilots, with names like Jack standing out as particularly experienced and knowledgeable. Reviewers note that the pilots made their first helicopter flight feel safe and smooth, even at the altitude and during the mountain landing. This level of confidence and clarity from the pilot can turn what might be an adrenaline-inducing experience into a relaxed and enjoyable one.

The helicopter is described as modern and comfortable, with headsets for narration, which many travelers find helps deepen the experience—knowing what you’re flying over makes the views even more meaningful.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour appeals to a broad range of visitors. Photographers will love the opportunity to capture the expansive scenery and mountain vistas from a unique perspective. Families and first-time heli travelers will appreciate the expert guidance and safety measures in place, as well as the chance to step onto a mountain spur. Nature lovers will find the combination of aerial views and mountain landings an unbeatable way to appreciate Queenstown’s rugged beauty.

Those on a tight schedule will find the 20-minute duration perfect, offering a quick but highly memorable adventure. And because the tour is designed to be accessible, most travelers can participate, with only a few requirements around weight and age (children must be accompanied by adults).

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Flight Path

Your adventure begins after a convenient hotel pickup, usually from a centrally located Queenstown hotel, making it easy to join without extra fuss. You’ll be transported to the helicopter base at 35 Lucas Place, Frankton, where you’ll check in and get ready for takeoff.

Once airborne, the helicopter ascends smoothly, giving you your first panoramic glimpses of Lake Wakatipu, with its shimmering waters surrounded by mountains. The flight path takes you over some of the most iconic sights of the region: the rugged Southern Alps, the sprawling Coronet Peak ski area, and the lush Cecil Peak.

The Mountain Landing

The star of this experience is the Remarkables mountain spur, where you’ll have about 10 minutes to step outside the helicopter and soak in the 360-degree views. This is a rare opportunity, as landings on mountain tops are generally limited and weather-dependent. Many travelers comment that this stop is the highlight, with breathtaking snow-capped scenery and perfect photo ops. One reviewer notes, “This is probably one of the best things I have ever done in my life,” and another mentions that “standing on top of a mountain” is an unforgettable experience.

Return and Reflection

After your mountain stop, you’ll reboard for the return flight, which offers new perspectives on Queenstown, the lake, and the surrounding peaks. The helicopter descends back to the base for your transfer back to your hotel, completing your scenic adventure.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The reviews paint a vivid picture of a well-executed tour, with high praise for both the scenery and the professionalism of the staff. Summer_C raves about Jack, the pilot, noting he made her family feel safe and confident during their first heli flight. Nicole_Z declares “Super cool experience! Would do again,” highlighting the mountain stop as a major plus.

Many comment on the value for money, emphasizing that for just 20 minutes, the experience feels immersive and worthwhile. Katie_P, who celebrated her son’s 10th birthday, called it “one of the best things I have ever done,” and Eric_S shared how the snow landing was a trip highlight.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Booking and Confirmation: You’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, and the tour operates with a minimum and maximum group size—up to 6 travelers—which keeps things intimate and manageable.
• Pricing and Value: At around $169.53, the tour offers a compelling mix of scenery, a mountain landing, and expert narration—considered excellent value given the exclusivity of helicopter flights.
• Weather and Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
• Weight Limit: Passengers must supply accurate weights, with a maximum of 265 lbs per person — a standard safety measure for helicopter balance.
• Child Policy: Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it accessible for families with kids.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you crave a quick, scenic escape with spectacular views and the thrill of standing atop a mountain, this helicopter tour is a winner. It’s perfect for first-time heli travelers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add a touch of adventure to their Queenstown visit. It’s also a great choice for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, given the memorable mountain landing and panoramic vistas.

However, if you’re someone who prefers prolonged scenic experiences or hiking, this short flight might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for travelers who want a high-impact, photo-worthy adventure without a lot of time commitment.

The Sum Up

The 20-minute Remarkables Helicopter Tour offers an outstanding way to see Queenstown’s rugged beauty from above. With a knowledgeable pilot guiding you over Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables range, and a mountain landing, it provides a perfect mix of comfort, adventure, and awe-inspiring scenery. The experience is especially well-suited for those eager to capture incredible photos or to enjoy a memorable highlight during their trip.

While the flight duration is brief, many reviews emphasize that the quality of the views and the landing experience more than make up for it. The inclusion of hotel pickup and a professional crew enhances the value, making it an accessible and reliable choice for travelers.

If you’re after a powerful visual experience that leaves you with a sense of accomplishment and a camera full of stunning shots, this tour is well worth the cost. It’s ideal for families, first-time helicopter riders, and anyone wanting to see New Zealand’s alpine grandeur from a truly unique vantage point.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The helicopter flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, including the mountain landing and return flight.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to join from most centrally located Queenstown accommodations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Specific age restrictions aren’t listed, but it’s designed to be family-friendly.

What is the maximum weight per passenger?
Passengers should supply accurate weights, with a maximum of 265 lbs (120 kg) per person, to ensure safe aircraft balance.

What is the weather policy?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I buy photos from the tour?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase, although they are not included in the standard price.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $169.53 per person, which provides a short but immersive scenic experience with a mountain landing.

This helicopter tour in Queenstown balances thrill, scenery, and convenience to create a memorable highlight of your New Zealand journey. Whether it’s your first time in a helicopter or you’re seeking a quick but breathtaking adventure, it’s a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.