From Nelson: Helicopter Ride to Golden Bay Tequila Farm

Imagine soaring above New Zealand’s stunning South Island coastline, with a private helicopter lifting you from Nelson Airport to the peaceful shores of Golden Bay. For around $2,431 per group (up to six people), this 2.5-hour experience blends breathtaking scenic flight, luxurious landings, and an exclusive visit to the country’s only tequila farm. It’s a rare chance to combine the thrill of flying with a personal tour and tastings of gin, whiskey, and tequila — all in one seamless adventure.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things: first, the spectacular views of Abel Tasman National Park and the coastline, and second, the personalized experience with a private tour and dedicated guide. We loved the way the pilot kept us engaged with lively commentary about landmarks as we cruised the skies. Also, landing at a private heli-pad at Kiwi Spirit Distillery feels like being whisked into a secret world of spirits, far from crowded tourist sites.

A possible consideration is the price point — at over two thousand dollars, this isn’t your everyday outing. It’s best suited for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking an ultra-exclusive experience. Also, children under 18 aren’t permitted, so it’s more a grown-up treat than a family adventure. Overall, if you’re craving a mix of adventure, luxury, and authentic tastings, this tour offers an unforgettable way to see and taste New Zealand.

Key Points

Spectacular Aerial Views: Fly over Abel Tasman National Park and the golden coastline.
Exclusive Landing: Land at a private heli-pad at Kiwi Spirit Distillery.
Unique Experience: The only tequila farm in New Zealand, with guided tastings.
Personal Touch: Private group with personalized commentary and tours.
Scenic Return Flight: Follow the coastline back to Nelson for more stunning scenery.
Optional Extras: Food platters and additional tastings available for purchase.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Helicopter Ride from Nelson to Golden Bay

We start our adventure at Nelson Airport, where a private helicopter awaits. The experience begins with a brief safety briefing and the comfort of your headsets, allowing you to chat with your pilot throughout the flight. From here, the journey is as much about the views as it is about the destination.

Fly over the coast — the golden sands stretch endlessly, contrasted by the vibrant blues and greens of the water. The pilot points out familiar landmarks, making the flight engaging even for those not used to flying. As we glided past Abel Tasman National Park, we couldn’t help but marvel at the dense native bush and rugged coastline. One reviewer noted, “It’s a view you can’t get from the ground,” and we couldn’t agree more.

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The Landing at Kiwi Spirit Distillery and the Tequila Farm

Touching down at the private heli-pad, the experience shifts from aerial to land-based adventure. The Kiwi Spirit team greets you and escorts you to the on-site tasting room, which feels like a cozy secret hideaway. This is where the tour truly shines — being in a dedicated space for tasting and learning, away from noisy crowds.

This is New Zealand’s only tequila farm, and the guided tour of the distillery reveals the process behind making their spirits. The guide shares insights into the ingredients, distillation methods, and what makes their tequila unique. It’s a rare insight into a craft that’s more commonly associated with Mexico, making it a distinctive feature of this tour.

Tastings include gin and whiskey, with the option to purchase bottles directly on-site. The onsite cocktail master entertains with clever mixes, turning tasting into a fun, social event. One guest appreciated the “friendly, knowledgeable staff and quality spirits,” which elevated the entire experience.

The Scenic Return Flight and Final Views

After your tasting and guided tour, you’ll board the helicopter for the return journey. Following the coastline back to Nelson, this flight offers a fresh perspective on the landscape. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery during the return, with some saying their favorite part was just “sharing the sky with friends and soaking in the incredible views.”

The entire tour, including flights, tastings, and guided visits, provides a seamless blend of adventure, luxury, and authentic experiences — a thoughtful way to see New Zealand from both the air and the ground.

Price and Value Analysis

At $2,431 for up to six people, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, when you break down the experience, the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for a personalized, private flight, exclusive landings, and guided tastings — all of which would be much more costly if booked separately. The uniqueness of visiting New Zealand’s only tequila farm and the intimate nature of the experience make it a high-end, memorable option for special occasions or those seeking something truly different.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for couples, groups of friends, or families celebrating a milestone who want a luxury experience combined with spectacular scenery. It’s also perfect for spirits enthusiasts eager to explore a hidden corner of New Zealand’s craft scene. If you enjoy private, tailor-made experiences that blend adventure with culture and tasting, you’ll find this tour worth every cent.

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Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour from Nelson to Golden Bay offers a rare combination: aerial views of iconic landscapes, the exclusivity of a private land landing, and a guided tasting of spirits in a serene setting. It’s a high-cost adventure, but one that delivers memorable moments and a sense of discovery that’s hard to match.

Whether you’re celebrating a special event, craving a unique perspective on New Zealand’s natural beauty, or simply want to indulge in some of the best spirits the country has to offer, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s an authentic, luxurious experience that provides more than just a flight — it offers a story to remember.

FAQs

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, including the helicopter flight, landings, and tastings.

What is the price per group?
It’s $2,431 for up to six people, making it a shared luxury experience.

Can children participate?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 18 years.

What’s included in the price?
You get headsets for communication, entrance to Kiwi Spirit Distillery with tastings, and a private guided tour of the tequila farm.

What should I organize beforehand?
Optional extras like a grazing platter need to be organized prior to the flight.

Is this tour available in the morning and afternoon?
Yes, it’s typically available in both time slots, depending on the day.

What makes this experience unique?
It’s the only tequila farm in New Zealand, combined with exclusive helicopter landings and scenic flights.

Is this a good value?
While pricey, the private, personalized nature and exclusive access make it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions.

This helicopter ride to Golden Bay and the tequila farm offers an impeccable blend of adventure, luxury, and authentic Kiwi spirit. It’s perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing — they want an experience. If you’re ready to combine sky-high views with a taste of New Zealand’s craft spirits, this is one tour you’ll remember long after the helicopter has landed.

You can check availability for your dates here: