What if you could combine a scenic helicopter tour with a visit to New Zealand’s only Tequila farm? That’s exactly what this experience offers—an eye-opening flight over the Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay, topped off with an intimate tour and tasting at Kiwi Spirit Distillery. For around $2,535 per group of up to six, you’ll spend approximately two and a half hours exploring some of the most beautiful scenery while sampling innovative spirits crafted from local ingredients.
One of the first things we love about this experience is the combination of spectacular aerial views and an authentic distillery visit. The flight over Abel Tasman offers sweeping vistas of golden beaches and lush coastlines that are uniquely New Zealand. Then, landing in Golden Bay allows you to step into a family-run distillery that creates spirits from homegrown Blue Agave, a true rarity outside Mexico. Plus, the personalized nature of the tour, with just your group, makes it feel more like visiting a friend’s private farm than a commercial operation.
A point to consider is that this tour involves a helicopter ride, which might not suit travelers with a fear of flying or those who prefer ground-based activities. However, if aerial views and a sense of adventure appeal to you, this is a memorable way to see the landscape. This experience suits those who enjoy unique, small-group adventures combined with gourmet tastings and a touch of travel excitement—perfect for travelers looking for a blend of scenery, culture, and craftsmanship.
Key Points
- Unique Experience: The only Tequila farm in New Zealand, crafted from Blue Agave.
- Scenic Flight: Over Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay, offering breathtaking views.
- Customized Private Tour: Small group, personalized experience, ideal for intimate exploration.
- Authentic Tasting: Sample boutique spirits in a friendly, family-owned distillery.
- Value for Money: Combines scenic flight, cultural insight, and premium spirits for a comprehensive experience.
- Weather Dependency: The helicopter ride requires clear weather; cancellations are possible but flexible.
The Scenic Flight Over Abel Tasman and Golden Bay
The tour begins with a 30-minute flight that takes you over Abel Tasman National Park, revered for its golden beaches and natural landscapes. As we soared above, we loved the way this aerial perspective revealed the scale and beauty of the park—long stretches of golden sand, shimmering water, and lush greenery. This is the kind of view that leaves you in awe, and it’s a fantastic way to appreciate New Zealand’s coastal grandeur without a long hike.
The flight then continues toward Golden Bay, offering panoramic vistas that are unforgettable. These views make the whole experience worth every penny, especially if you’re a fan of photography or just want to see the big picture of this stunning part of the world.
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Landing and Visiting Kiwi Spirit Distillery
Once landed in Golden Bay, the adventure shifts from sky to ground. The Kiwi Spirit Distillery is family owned, and their passion for quality shines through in the spirits they produce. The distillery specializes in handcrafted boutique spirits, notably their 100% Blue Agave Tequilana, a rare find in New Zealand. That’s right—this is the only Tequila farm in the country, making it a must-visit for spirit enthusiasts.
The tour lasts around two hours, during which you’ll be entertained in the tasting room and get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process. A highlight is sampling their spirits, which are made from local ingredients, showcasing the farm-to-bottle philosophy. The spirits are described as boutique, meaning they’re crafted with care and attention to detail. One review notes that “Michelle is knowledgeable and helpful,” making the tasting experience both educational and enjoyable.
The Authenticity of the Experience
What sets this apart from typical distillery visits is the family-owned atmosphere and the focus on quality. Because the distillery operates on a small scale, the spirits are boutique products rather than mass-produced brands. This gives you the chance to taste something genuinely different—an authentic New Zealand twist on Tequila made from Blue Agave plants grown right there.
You’ll also find that the tasting is well-paced and friendly. With most travelers able to participate, including children (if accompanied by an adult), it’s an experience that feels accessible and inclusive. The distillery’s dedication to quality over quantity ensures that each spirit you sample has been crafted with care, making it a worthwhile stop for those who appreciate craftsmanship and local flavors.
Practical Details and Logistics
The tour departs from Nelson Airport, located at 8 Dakota Street, early in the day, with flexible hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The pickup service simplifies logistics, and the private nature of the tour means you won’t be part of a large group—just your friends or family.
The total price of approximately $2,535 includes the helicopter flight, landings, and a guided distillery tour with tastings. Given the inclusiveness and the memorable combination of scenery and spirits, many travelers might find this experience offers great value—especially for those looking for something beyond the typical sightseeing trip.
Note that weather plays a role in whether the helicopter can fly. If poor conditions cancel the flight, the provider offers a full refund or an alternative date, which provides peace of mind.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventurous spirits—literally and figuratively. It’s ideal for travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime view of Abel Tasman and Golden Bay, combined with a taste of local craftsmanship. Couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or families with older children will all find something to love.
It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy small-group tours and are interested in trying unique spirits. However, those with a fear of flying or mobility issues might want to weigh the helicopter component carefully.
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Final Thoughts
This helicopter and distillery tour offers a rare glimpse into New Zealand’s natural beauty and inventive spirit-making. The chance to fly over some of the country’s most iconic coastlines and then taste boutique spirits made from local Blue Agave makes for a truly memorable day.
For travelers seeking an active, scenic, and flavorful experience that combines adventure with authentic craftsmanship, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a perfect combination of spectacular views, personalized service, and regional pride, making it well worth considering for your Nelson or Golden Bay visit.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult. The overall physical activity level is easy, but the helicopter ride might be less suitable for very young children or those with fears of flying.
How long does the entire experience last? The flight is approximately 30 minutes, and the distillery tour and tasting take about 2 hours, for a total of around 2.5 hours.
What should I wear? It’s recommended to wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes, especially since you’ll be on a helicopter and walking around the distillery.
Are meals or snacks included? The tour focuses on spirits tasting, and while no meals are included, the tasting room sometimes offers food options to complement the spirits.
What is the cost of the tour? The total price is about $2,534.97 per group of up to six people, which covers the helicopter flight, landings, and distillery visit.
Is the helicopter ride weather-dependent? Yes, flights are subject to weather conditions. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.
Is pickup provided? Yes, pickup from Nelson Airport is offered, making logistics easier.
What kind of spirits will I taste? You’ll sample boutique spirits made locally at Kiwi Spirit Distillery, including their signature Blue Agave Tequila, among other unique offerings.
Can I buy spirits at the distillery? While not explicitly mentioned, many boutique distilleries sell their spirits, so you might have the opportunity to purchase some to take home.
How do I book this experience? Reservations can be made easily through the provider’s booking platform, and confirmation is immediate upon booking.
This combination of spectacular scenery and exclusive spirits makes for a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the essence of Nelson’s adventurous spirit and local craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, this tour offers a memorable way to see and taste some of New Zealand’s most unique offerings.