Kaikoura Helicopters Helijet

Discover Kaikoura Helicopters Helijet: A Bird’s Eye View of Coastal New Zealand

Imagine soaring over dramatic cliffs, the roaring waves below, and dolphins playing in the water — all within a couple of hours. That’s exactly what Kaikoura Helicopters Helijet offers. Starting from their conveniently located beachfront helipads, you’ll take off on a 40-minute helicopter flight that showcases the rugged coastline, the Hurunui River gorge, and the endless expanse of the South Pacific. For about $568 per person, this experience combines adventure, stunning scenery, and a dash of adrenaline, making it a memorable highlight for anyone craving an authentic Kiwi adventure.

What we love most about this tour is how intimate the experience feels—with a maximum of just six travelers, you’re not lost in a crowd. Plus, the combination of a scenic helicopter flight with a jet boat ride allows you to see Kaikoura from two spectacular angles: sky-high and water-level. On the downside, the cost might be a stretch for some travelers, but when you weigh that against the unique views and memorable moments, it’s a solid value. This tour suits those who love nature, photography, and a bit of thrill—perfect for couples, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a special way to see Kaikoura’s rugged coast.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenery: Fly along the coast, over the Hurunui River gorge, and see Kaikoura from above.
• Unique Combo: Enjoy both a scenic helicopter flight and a jet boat experience in one tour.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 6 travelers, you get personalized attention and better photo opportunities.
• Authentic Experience: The tour is designed for genuine, unfiltered views of New Zealand’s coastline and rivers.
• Weather Dependent: Flights are subject to weather conditions; clear skies make for better photos.
• Advance Bookings: Book approximately 84 days in advance for the best chance of securing your preferred date.

The Complete Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Central Beachfront Helipad

Your adventure begins at the 16 West End helipad in Kaikoura — a convenient, scenic spot right on the beach. As you prepare to take off, you’ll notice the minimal but well-organized facilities, and you’ll get a quick briefing about safety and the flight path. Expect to be weighed before departure, as all passengers are carefully loaded based on weight and balance, ensuring a safe and smooth flight.

The Helicopter Flight: A Coastal Panorama

Once airborne, you’ll immediately understand why helicopter tours are a favorite for visual enthusiasts. The 40-minute flight sweeps along the coastline, giving you a bird’s eye view of the dramatic South Pacific Ocean meeting rugged cliffs and rolling green hills. The pilot, who always wears a headset for communication, will point out notable features like the Hurunui River mouth, the expansive coastline, and perhaps even dolphins or whales if they’re near the surface (though not guaranteed).

We loved how the experience combined the thrill of flight with the beauty of scenery, making every photo opportunity special. The helicopter’s large windows and open views make it easy to capture the landscape with your camera or phone. Plus, the pilot’s commentary adds context, helping you understand what you’re seeing.

The Hurunui River Jet Boat Ride

After the helicopter, you’ll head to Energy Jet NZ, owned and operated by Tim Loughnan, a fifth-generation sheep and beef farmer. The 30-minute jet boat trip takes you up the stunning Hurunui River gorge. This part of the tour offers a high-speed, adrenaline-fueled ride through narrow, rocky passages with stunning vistas of lush greenery and rushing waters.

Traveling upstream, you’ll get a different perspective of the landscape—closer to nature, more dynamic, and perfect for action photos. The jet boat is expertly navigated, making sure everyone feels safe but also gets a dose of excitement. These rides are popular among travelers who enjoy a sense of adventure mixed with awe-inspiring scenery.

Returning Flight and Final Views

After the jet boat experience, you’ll reboard the helicopter for the return journey, flying north along the Hurunui River mouth and the coast back to Kaikoura. This return leg offers one last chance to soak in the panoramic views, which many describe as “stunning” — a term that truly captures the experience. Expect to see the coastline, river estuaries, and perhaps seabirds soaring below.

Authentic, Balanced Adventure

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded view of Kaikoura’s natural beauty, combining aerial vistas with water-level excitement. The small group size ensures the experience remains intimate and personalized, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

Practicalities and Considerations

While the tour is remarkable, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Weather Sensitivity: Flights depend heavily on weather; cloudy or rainy days might result in cancellations or rescheduling. The tour provider is flexible, offering to rebook or transfer to other bases if needed.
• Physical Requirements: Most travelers can participate, but all passengers are weighed beforehand, with a limit of 265 lbs per person.
• Preparation: Wearing covered shoes and bringing a warm jacket is recommended, especially since it can get breezy at altitude. Don’t forget your camera and sunglasses.
• Booking: Due to high demand (average bookings are made 84 days in advance), securing a spot requires planning ahead.
• Duration: Expect about 2 hours total, including check-in, the jet boat ride, and the helicopter flight.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviews highlight the stunning views as the standout feature. One happy traveler exclaimed, “This was a wonderful experience for me seeing the water underground me and seeing dolphins. This was so cool, my sister and I were with my grandparents. I rate 10/10.” It’s clear that the tour provides memorable moments for families and solo travelers alike, especially those who love cameras and nature.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-minded travelers, photography buffs, and nature lovers. If you want more than just a scenic drive or boat ride and are interested in experiencing the coast from both the air and water, this tour offers unbeatable value. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a unique perspective of Kaikoura’s stunning coastline, this helicopter plus jet boat combo delivers. The opportunity to see dolphins, whales (potentially), and the rugged coast from above and below makes it a standout experience. While the price may seem high, the quality of views, the thrill of the jet boat, and the small-group setting create an experience worth considering.

If you’re visiting Kaikoura and want a memorable, visually spectacular adventure — this tour is a top contender. It blends natural beauty with adventure, making for a well-rounded and impressive day out.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including check-in, the jet boat ride, and the helicopter flight.

Where do the helicopter flights depart from?
Flights leave from the centrally located beachfront helipads at 16 West End, Kaikoura.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but passengers are weighed beforehand, and weather conditions can affect availability. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I wear?
Comfortable covered shoes and a warm jacket are recommended because it can be breezy, especially at altitude.

Can I see marine life during the tour?
While not guaranteed, some travelers report seeing dolphins or whales from the helicopter.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent. If conditions prevent flying, you’ll be offered a rebooking or a full refund.

Is there group discount available?
Yes, group discounts are offered, and you’ll share the experience with a small group of up to 6 travelers.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 84 days ahead is recommended, as this tour is popular and fills quickly.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, photographer, or simply someone wanting to see Kaikoura from a breathtaking perspective, this combo tour offers a compelling mix of scenery and thrill. Prepare for an adventure that’s as visually stunning as it is unique — a day in New Zealand you’ll remember for years to come.