Queenstown: Helicopter Flight and Gin Tasting Tour

Queenstown: Helicopter Flight and Gin Tasting Tour
Location: South Island, New Zealand
Country: New Zealand
Rating: 5/5 (based on 3 reviews)
Price: $450 per person
Duration: 6 hours

A Unique Mix of Adventure and Flavor in Queenstown

Imagine soaring over Queenstown’s dramatic landscape, landing atop a mountain for a gin-tasting experience that’s as much about the scenery as the spirits. This tour, offered by Altitude Tours, combines a short helicopter flight, a mountain landing, and visits to three distinctive distilleries — including the famed Cardrona Distillery — for a delightful exploration of local spirits. For $450 per person, you’ll spend about six hours immersed in the beauty and flavors of New Zealand’s South Island.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances adrenaline and relaxation. The helicopter flight offers breathtaking views of Queenstown’s jagged mountains and pristine lakes, while the guided tastings provide insight into the art of distilling. The shared grazing food at the stops adds a social, convivial touch. The tour also boasts a small group setting and a knowledgeable guide, making it feel intimate and well-organized.

One potential consideration is weather dependency — if the helicopter can’t fly, the experience will switch to van transport. And, since the tour is limited to travelers over 18 and pregnant women or those in wheelchairs, it’s not suited for everyone. But if you’re craving a blend of adventure and good spirits in Queenstown, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for adventurers who enjoy a scenic thrill, spirits enthusiasts eager to learn about New Zealand’s gin scene, and travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging day out with plenty of opportunity for photos and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The helicopter provides a panoramic backdrop for your gin tasting on a mountaintop.
• Authentic Experiences: Guided visits to three local distilleries, including a tour of Cardrona Distillery, ensure you learn about the craft.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines sightseeing, tasting, and social grazing food, making the day well-rounded.
• Small Groups: Limited to 14 participants, ensuring more personalized attention and a convivial atmosphere.
• Weather Flexibility: If flying isn’t possible, the alternative transport still keeps the experience on track.
• Good Value: At $450, you get a blend of adventure, education, and tastings that’s hard to beat for the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Queenstown Helicopter and Gin Tour

Starting the Journey
Your day begins with hotel pickup — a smooth, hassle-free start. The 15-minute helicopter flight is a highlight, offering stunning views as you glide over Queenstown’s lakes and peaks. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The helicopter lands on a mountain summit, where you’ll stay for about 25 minutes. Here, you’re treated to a special gin tasting as you gaze out across the scenery.

This part of the tour is especially memorable because it combines awe-inspiring nature with a curated tasting. We loved how the guide pointed out the surrounding mountains and the way the fresh mountain air mingled with the scent of spirits — a combination hard to find elsewhere. The gin tasting on the mountain is designed to be as much about the view as the flavor, making it a unique sensory experience.

En Route and Stops
After the mountain landing, the group boards a comfortable Mercedes van for the rest of the afternoon. The transport is modern, with Wi-Fi, which is handy for sharing photos or catching up on travel plans. The first stop is Cardrona Valley, home to the eponymous distillery. Here, you’ll learn about the distillation process and sample some of New Zealand’s award-winning gins. The guided tour at Cardrona is a key highlight — the guide shares fun stories and facts about the distilling process, making it accessible whether you’re a spirits novice or connoisseur.

Following that, the tour travels to Arrowtown, a charming gold-rush town, where you’ll enjoy more tastings and shared platters. The third location is Arthurs Point, known for its scenic beauty and relaxed vibe. At each stop, you’ll get a gin and tonic or other spirits, along with grazing food that complements the drinks. We appreciated the variety of spirits available, including the option to try vodka, whiskey, or wine, offering a bit of flexibility for different tastes.

Taste and Learn
The tour’s primary focus is education and enjoyment. The hosts and staff are friendly, engaging, and eager to share their knowledge. We liked the way they explained the distillation process, turning what could be a dry lesson into an interesting story. The samples are generous, and the setting — indoors or outdoors, rain or shine — is equally comfortable.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer from Australia called it “fantastic” and highly recommended, emphasizing the great value for money. Others appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the quality of the gins. The small group size makes a difference, allowing everyone to ask questions and share comments comfortably.

Considerations
Weather can impact the helicopter’s flight — if it’s canceled, the organizers will substitute with van transport. While this might slightly change the experience, the overall itinerary remains engaging. The tour is also not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, which is typical for alcohol-related activities and helicopter rides.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This experience is best suited for adventurous spirits who don’t mind a bit of altitude and enjoy learning about local craftsmanship. It’s also perfect if you love stunning landscapes and want a memorable photo-op. If you’re curious about New Zealand’s gin scene or just want a day away from the crowds with a mix of sightseeing and sipping, this tour offers great value.

On top of that, it’s an excellent choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate a more intimate setting. The combination of scenic views, guided tastings, and casual social grazing makes for a relaxed yet engaging day.

Practical Details and Tips

• Transport: Pickup from Queenstown hotels and main bus stops, in a premium Mercedes van with Wi-Fi. Be ready at least 10 minutes early.
• Duration: About 6 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.
• Cost: $450 per person, which includes helicopter flight, mountain gin tasting, three distillery tastings, guided tour, and grazing food.
• Weather: The tour proceeds rain or shine; helicopter flights depend on weather conditions.
• Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and gluten-free options can be accommodated. Other special diets should be communicated in advance.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for children, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.
• Minimum Participants: Four people — if not met, an alternative date or a full refund is offered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
You get the helicopter flight, a mountain gin tasting, tastings at three distilleries, a guided tour of Cardrona Distillery, shared grazing platters, and transport in a luxury Mercedes van with Wi-Fi.

Can I try other spirits besides gin?
Yes, the tour hosts offer options to sample vodka, whiskey, or wine if you prefer something different or want to balance your tasting.

What if the helicopter can’t fly due to weather?
If weather conditions prevent helicopter operation, you’ll be informed and the tour will switch to van transport, ensuring you still enjoy the scenic journey and tastings.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten sensitivities?
Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, and the tour staff will do their best to accommodate other dietary needs if notified in advance.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is for participants 18 and over. It’s not suitable for children.

How big is the group?
Limited to 14 participants, making it a cozy, personal experience with more opportunity for interaction.

What kind of guide will I have?
A live English-speaking guide who is knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories and details about the sights and spirits.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Yes, the schedule is designed to balance sightseeing, tastings, and socializing, with enough time to enjoy each location comfortably.

What should I bring?
Just your passport or ID, and perhaps a camera for those incredible views. Dress appropriately for the weather, as some parts are outdoor.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown helicopter and gin-tasting tour offers an exciting blend of natural beauty, local craftsmanship, and relaxed social fun. The stunning helicopter flight and mountain landing are unforgettable, and the insights into New Zealand’s spirits add depth to the experience. It’s a great way to see more of Queenstown’s landscape while savoring the flavors that make the region special.

Travelers looking for a memorable day with a mix of adventure and education will find much to love here. The tour’s well-organized, friendly, and flexible approach ensures that everyone can enjoy a taste of New Zealand’s best while soaking in some of its most breathtaking scenery.

If you’re a spirits lover, an adventure seeker, or simply in search of a distinctive Queenstown experience, this tour is worth considering. Just be sure to pack your sense of curiosity and appreciation for good company and great views.

You can check availability for your dates here: