6 Hour’s – Queenstown’s Helicopter Gin Tour

Queenstown’s Helicopter Gin Tour: A Unique Blend of Scenery and Spirits

For those who enjoy a blend of adventure and relaxation, the Queenstown Helicopter Gin Tour offers an experience that’s as memorable as the scenery is stunning. Priced at $469.95 per person, this six-hour escapade takes you from the skies to the distilleries, weaving together breathtaking mountain views and some of New Zealand’s finest gins. The tour is a well-structured mix of flight, tasting, and sightseeing, with highlights including a helicopter ride over the Crown Range, visits to three local distilleries, and stops in charming Arrowtown and Arthurs Point.

What we love about this experience are two specific details: first, the mountaintop gin tasting during the helicopter flight — a rare chance to sip G&T while floating above the Southern Alps. Second, the variety of tastings at each distillery, offering a genuine taste of New Zealand’s vibrant gin scene. The only consideration? The tour’s schedule is quite packed, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full day of indulgence and sightseeing.

This experience is perfect for spirits aficionados, adventure travelers, or anyone seeking a unique way to explore Queenstown’s landscapes and local flavors. If you appreciate combining scenic vistas with local craft, you’ll find this tour a fantastic fit.

Key Points

• Unique combination of helicopter flight and gin tastings
• Visits to three distinct distilleries showcasing New Zealand’s craft spirit scene
• Scenic mountain landing adds a wow factor to the flight experience
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi and air-conditioning
• Authentic tastings and food at each stop, including shared platters and cheese
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Queenstown Helicopter Gin Tour

The Adventure Begins: Scenic Helicopter Flight and Mountain Tasting

The tour kicks off at The Helicopter Line in Queenstown, where you’ll meet your pilot, often a friendly guide named Charlotte in reviews, and board a helicopter for a 20-minute flight. This isn’t just about the flying — it’s about the stunning views of the Southern Alps and the Crown Range, the highest mountain pass in New Zealand. As you soar above snow-capped peaks and shimmering lakes, you’ll get a sense of the grandeur of Queenstown’s landscape.

The highlight here is the mountaintop gin tasting—a limited-edition gin by Limited Gin served during your landing on the mountain. It’s one of those unexpected moments that elevate the tour from a simple sightseeing trip to an experience that your camera and palate will thank you for. We loved the way this combination of scenery and taste creates an unforgettable start to the day.

Exploring the Art of Gin at Cardrona Distillery

Next is the Cardrona Distillery, about an hour and a half away from Queenstown. Here, the focus turns to education and craftsmanship. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a complimentary Gin & Tonic, a nice touch that sets the tone. The staff then take you on a guided tour of the distillery, explaining the history and process behind their signature gins.

What makes this stop special is the hands-on experience — seeing the distillation process, learning about ingredients, and understanding what differentiates New Zealand gins from others. The tasting here is more than just a sip; it’s an opportunity to sample a variety of flavors and appreciate the artistry involved. Reviewers have raved about this stop, with one mentioning that the staff’s knowledge made the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Scenic Drive Through Crown Range and Arrowtown

From Cardrona, you’ll travel by luxury Mercedes van along the Crown Range Road, considered one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. The spectacular views of mountains and valleys are a constant companion. It’s a brief 10-minute ride, but it’s a highlight in itself, giving you a chance to soak in the rugged beauty of the region.

Your next stop is Arrowtown, a charming gold-mining village with a rich history. Here, you’ll sample three New Zealand gins at The Winery, paired with tonic or soda and complemented by shared cheese platters. Review comments highlight the delicious food and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. This is a perfect place to unwind, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy local flavors.

The Final Tasting at the Gin Garden by Broken Heart Spirits

The last stop takes you to Arthurs Point, home to the Gin Garden by Broken Heart Spirits. This is a dedicated gin tasting room where you’ll learn about the brand’s history and the flavor profiles of their multiple gins. It’s a fitting end, providing a more in-depth look at New Zealand’s craft gin scene with knowledgeable staff and a cozy setting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all tastings, a scenic helicopter flight, shared food platters, and WiFi on the bus. You’ll want to have had lunch beforehand since this is an afternoon tour and no lunch is provided. The price covers three distillery visits, multiple tastings, and the helicopter experience, making it quite a value considering the variety and accessibility of experiences.

Practical Considerations

The tour is capped at 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and friendly. The helicopter flight requires knowing your weight in advance for safety. Weather can impact the schedule—if the helicopter can’t fly, you’ll be offered a road-only itinerary with a partial refund. Making sure you’re prepared for that possibility is wise.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Charlotte and Ana, with one saying, “You both made it a memorable experience.” The quality of tastings and the beautiful scenery consistently earn praise, with one reviewer calling it a “total recommend.” The food and gin pairings, especially the cheese platters, are often highlighted as highlights.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic experience that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavors, this is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for spirits lovers, those eager to learn about craft distilling, and anyone who appreciates a unique perspective on Queenstown’s landscapes. The tour’s schedule and price point make it a worthwhile splurge if you want to tick off both scenic and gustatory boxes in one day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling on a tight schedule, you might find the full itinerary somewhat busy. Also, be prepared for possible weather cancellations — weather plays a significant role in helicopter tours, but the tour provider offers flexible options.

This tour offers a wonderful combination of scenic wonder and gin mastery, making it a top-tier activity for those wanting to add a touch of sparkle to their Queenstown adventure.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs approximately six hours, including transport, tastings, and the helicopter experience.

What’s included in the tour cost?
Your payment covers the scenic helicopter flight, tastings at three distilleries, food platters, WiFi on the vehicle, and all scheduled tastings.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport or driver’s license for age verification, and have had lunch before the tour, as no food is included during the day.

What if the helicopter can’t fly due to weather?
If weather cancels the helicopter, you can opt for a road-only version of the tour and receive a partial refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s designed for adults only.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I participate if I’m a solo traveler?
Absolutely. Solo travelers are welcome, and the small group size makes it easy to meet others.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves a helicopter flight and several stops, it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific accessibility questions.

In sum, the Queenstown Helicopter Gin Tour is a well-organized, engaging way to explore the region’s stunning vistas and taste some of the best local gins. Whether you’re an adventurous spirit or a gin enthusiast, this experience offers a memorable blend of scenery, education, and flavor—an ideal choice for a special outing in Queenstown.