Private Champagne Picnic on a Peak with Helicopter Ride

Experience the Ultimate Scenic Adventure: Private Champagne Picnic with a Helicopter Ride in Queenstown

Imagine soaring over Lake Wakatipu and landing on a quiet alpine plateau with panoramic views of the Southern Alps—all topped off with a gourmet picnic of local cheeses, meats, fresh fruit, and sparkling wine. This experience, priced at $855.56 per person, typically lasts between 1 hour and 3.5 hours, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a memorable adventure. The tour is offered by Over the Top Limited and includes round-trip transportation from Queenstown (if booked with pickup), a scenic helicopter flight, and a luxurious picnic in a secluded mountain setting.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of flying with the serenity of a picnic in the mountains—a rare mix that appeals equally to adventure seekers and those looking for a peaceful escape. The personalized experience, with only up to 6 travelers per helicopter, ensures an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the professional narration via personal headsets adds a layer of storytelling that keeps you engaged as you take in the view.

One potential consideration is weather dependency—since this is an outdoor activity at high altitudes, poor weather can cause cancellations. However, the flexible rescheduling and full refund policy help mitigate this. This tour suits romantic couples, families, or groups celebrating milestones who appreciate spectacular scenery paired with gourmet food in a private setting.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Small-group, personalized helicopter tour with a gourmet picnic.
• Unmatched Views: Panoramic 180-degree vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps.
• Convenience: Pickup, drop-off, and free parking included.
• Gourmet Picnic: Local cheeses, meats, salads, fresh fruit, and sparkling wine.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Romantic, family, or group celebrations.
• Weather Sensitive: Cancellations possible if conditions aren’t suitable.

A Deep Dive into the Helicopter Picnic Experience

When we picture a heli-picnic, the images of soaring through the sky followed by a relaxing feast in the mountains seem almost too good to be true. This tour truly delivers on that fantasy, especially for those who want to combine adventure and indulgence in one seamless package.

The Scenic Helicopter Flight

Your adventure begins at 10 Tex Smith Lane in Frankton, where you’ll meet your pilot for the day—Ben, as a delighted reviewer mentioned. The helicopter ride over Lake Wakatipu is nothing short of breathtaking. As you lift off, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the basin and beyond, with the Southern Alps providing a stunning backdrop. The helicopter’s windows are large, giving ample opportunity to photograph the rugged terrain, shimmering water, and distant mountain peaks.

The narration through personal headsets enriches the experience, with the pilot sharing stories and pointing out notable sights. With a maximum of just six travelers, the flight feels intimate rather than touristy.

Landing on Cecil Peak

The highlight of this journey is the landing on a secluded mountain plateau on Cecil Peak, where few people get to go. This spot offers 180-degree views over Queenstown and the Wakatipu Basin, making it one of the most photogenic locations in New Zealand. As one reviewer put it, “The mountain top views were stunning,” and you can expect to spend around 30 to 45 minutes here to relax, take pictures, and prepare for your picnic.

The Gourmet Picnic

Once you’re on the mountain, you’ll settle onto your picnic rug amid the silence and grandeur of the mountains. The hamper includes local cheeses, meats, salads, and fresh fruit, complemented by a beverage selection of champagne, beer, water, and soft drinks. According to reviews, everything from the food to the drinks is thoughtfully curated, and the champagne is especially appreciated in this setting.

Guests often mention how delicious the food is, with one reviewer noting the “delicious platter” and another calling the experience “really special”. The picnic setup is well-equipped with chairs and a rug, making it comfortable to relax and soak in the views.

Returning to Queenstown

After your picnic, you’ll reboard the helicopter for the return flight, with more chances to marvel at the scenery. Depending on weather conditions, the entire experience lasts between 1 and 3.5 hours, providing plenty of time for photos, relaxation, and enjoying the tranquility of the mountains.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Personal Touch

The small group size and private helicopter ensure an intimate experience that feels personalized. As Ruby said, “Pick up & drop off included which is so convenient,” making it easy to get to and from the tour without fuss.

The Views and Food

The combination of stunning scenery and a gourmet picnic basket elevates this beyond a simple helicopter ride. You’re not just flying over beautiful landscapes; you’re landing in a quiet mountain haven to enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal with champagne in hand. As Glen noted, it was a “really special” way to celebrate his wife’s 60th birthday.

Practical Details and Considerations

While this experience offers tremendous value and unforgettable memories, there are some factors to keep in mind. Because it’s a weather-dependent activity, cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable—usually with a full refund or a chance to reschedule. Travelers should be prepared with comfortable shoes and warm layers, as the mountain altitude can be cooler and the terrain uneven.

Since it’s limited to six travelers, booking well in advance (about 11 days ahead on average) is wise to secure your preferred date. The price of around $855 per person might seem steep, but when you consider the private helicopter, gourmet picnic, and breathtaking scenery, it offers substantial value—especially for a special celebration.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for those celebrating milestones—like birthdays or anniversaries—but also for anyone who wants a unique perspective on Queenstown’s stunning landscape. It’s perfect for romantic couples seeking a memorable, intimate experience, or families and friends looking for a special adventure that combines luxury and nature. The small group size and personalized service make it suitable for travelers who appreciate attention to detail and comfort.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, if you choose the package that offers pickup, it’s included. The meeting point is at 10 Tex Smith Lane in Frankton.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 to 3.5 hours, depending on weather conditions and the specific itinerary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because there will be walking on uneven terrain. Bringing a warm layer is also advisable, as mountain temperatures can be cooler.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather may lead to cancellation with the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.

What’s included in the picnic?
The hamper contains cheeses, meats, salads, and fresh fruit, along with a selection of beverages including champagne, beer, water, and soft drinks.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and while the experience isn’t explicitly limited to adults, the tranquil setting and scenic nature make it suitable for families with older children.

Final Thoughts

The Private Champagne Picnic on a Peak with Helicopter Ride in Queenstown offers an extraordinary way to see some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. It’s a blend of adventure, luxury, and serenity that’s perfect for celebrating special moments or simply adding a memorable highlight to your trip. The small group size and personalized experience make it feel exclusive, while the included gourmet food and drinks elevate the journey to a truly indulgent level.

While the price isn’t accessible for everyone, the combination of stunning views, delicious food, and personal touch provides a high level of value for travelers seeking something unique and memorable. If you’re looking for a way to combine scenic splendor with a gourmet picnic in one seamless tour, this experience is hard to beat—especially with the chance to land on a mountain plateau and enjoy the tranquility of New Zealand’s wilderness.

Feel free to consider this experience if you want a special day out that combines adventure and indulgence in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories, enjoy top-notch food and drink, and see Queenstown from a truly unique perspective.