Queenstown Helicopter Tour | 1hr Earnslaw Burn & Waterfalls

Imagine soaring high above rugged South Island landscapes for an hour, witnessing some of the most extraordinary scenery New Zealand has to offer. For $492 per person, this helicopter adventure combines scenic flightseeing with an exclusive landing in the remote Earnslaw Burn. Led by a knowledgeable local pilot, you’ll cruise over Skippers Canyon, explore a glacier-fed valley, and take in panoramic views of towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.

What we especially love about this tour is how it offers that elusive blend of adventure and tranquility. First, the flight takes you over historic gold mining landscapes, which adds a layer of local history to the experience. Then, the exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn feels like stepping into a movie set—minus the Hollywood crew, just you and the wild. And depending on the season, you’ll be greeted by either frozen blue glaciers or lush waterfalls, making each trip uniquely magical.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—cloud cover or wind can lead to rescheduling. Also, since this is a shared experience, you’ll be flying with 6 to 9 others, which can be a bonus or a drawback depending on your preference for intimacy. Nonetheless, this tour suits those craving a truly remote and photogenic spot that’s otherwise inaccessible.

This adventure is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to tick a major highlight off their New Zealand itinerary. If you seek an authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends scenic views with a touch of adventure, this one’s for you.

Key Points

Exclusive access to Earnslaw Burn, only available through Heliworks Queenstown
Stunning seasonal scenery: glaciers in winter, waterfalls in summer
Beautiful flight over Skippers Canyon and historic gold mining sites
20-minute landing in a remote alpine valley surrounded by peaks and glaciers
Expert commentary from experienced local pilots
Flexible options with hotel pickup and dropoff available

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Queenstown Helicopter Experience

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The Scenic Flight: A Tour in the Sky

Our journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight that offers a bird’s-eye view of Queenstown’s rugged landscape. The helicopter, accommodating 6 to 9 passengers, is designed for both comfort and safety, with seats arranged to ensure proper weight distribution. As you lift off, you’ll see the famous Skippers Canyon, a rugged historic gold-mining area whose steep gorges and winding river make for a dramatic aerial spectacle.

Flying over these ancient landscapes, you’ll notice the contrast between the craggy schist slopes and patches of lush greenery. The pilot’s commentary enriches the ride, pointing out notable features and sharing stories about the area’s history. The flight then descends into the Earnslaw Burn, an untouched valley that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a fantasy novel.

Landing at Earnslaw Burn: An Unmatched Perspective

The exclusive 20-minute landing at Earnslaw Burn is the highlight of this tour. Only Heliworks Queenstown has permission to land here, which means you get to step onto this remote alpine valley—a place few travelers will ever see in person. Surrounded by towering peaks, with a glacier spill feeding into waterfalls below, this spot feels like being on top of the world.

A constant theme in reviews is how spectacular this location is. One traveler described it as “a scene straight out of a movie,” emphasizing the drama of the hanging glacier and the cascading waterfalls, especially in the warmer months when meltwater streams down the cliffs. In winter, the snow transforms the glacier into something even more imposing and blue, creating a totally different, but equally stunning, atmosphere.

Seasonal Variability: Waterfalls or Glaciers?

Depending on the time of year, your experience here will vary. During warmer months (roughly December through May), you’ll see multiple waterfalls—meltwater tumbling down the valley walls. Several reviews highlight the beauty and movement of these waterfalls, making for excellent photo opportunities.

In contrast, winter (June to August) brings snowfall and a more glacier-centric view. The glacier deepens in color, revealing intense blue tones that thrill photographers and nature lovers alike. One guest noted, “Seeing the glacier close-up with its icy blue hues made me feel like I was in a different world.”

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Flight Over Gold Mining and Historic Landmarks

Before reaching the viewing point, the flight over Skippers Canyon and historic gold mining relics provides context about the region’s past. This adds an educational layer to your scenic experience, making it more meaningful than just beautiful views. The canyon’s rugged walls and the remnants of old mining towns help you appreciate how difficult life was in these remote spots.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration: 1 hour total, including the flight and land time
Price: $492 per person, which can seem steep but considering the exclusive landing and the remote location, many find it worthwhile
Included: A 60-minute helicopter ride, 20-minute exclusive landing, commentary, and optional hotel pickup/dropoff
Not included: Food, so plan to eat before or after
Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the experience is suitable for most travelers in good health
Weather: All flights depend on weather conditions, and safety is paramount. Routes may change, or flights reschedule if conditions aren’t ideal
Group size: 6-9 passengers, which keeps the experience relatively intimate but also lively

What We Heard from Travelers

Many who took this tour loved the unique perspective it provided. One review mentioned, “The helicopter was comfortable, and the pilot was friendly and informative. Sitting in the front seat gave us the best views.” Others appreciated the privacy of the landing—a rare opportunity to explore a pristine wilderness area.

A consistent theme among reviews is how memorable the landscape is. One traveler said, “The glacier was so close I could see the deep blue ice cracks, which was breathtaking.” Another appreciated how the instructor’s stories about historic gold mining added depth to the experience.

Value Considerations

While $492 might seem high at first glance, consider what’s included: a private landing in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular spots, panoramic views that cannot be accessed by road, and a flight over historic landmarks. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—something that justifies the price for the unmatched scenery and exclusivity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to step into a remote wilderness and see glaciers and waterfalls up close. It’s especially suited for photographers, nature lovers, and those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a thrilling adventure in stunning surroundings.

If you’re comfortable with shared helicopter rides and understand that weather could impact your plans, this tour offers a rare opportunity to connect with one of New Zealand’s most beautiful landscapes in an unforgettable way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The total experience lasts about one hour, including the scenic flight and the 20-minute landing at Earnslaw Burn.

What is included in the price?
You get a 60-minute helicopter flight, exclusive landing in the Earnslaw Burn, aerial views of Skippers Canyon and gold mining relics, and commentary from the pilot. Optional hotel pickup and dropoff are available.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. The views are spectacular, and you’ll want to capture this once-in-a-lifetime scenery, especially the glacier’s icy blue hues and waterfalls.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most in good health. However, it is weather-dependent, and flights may be rescheduled for safety reasons.

Does the experience vary by season?
Yes. In summer, you’ll see waterfalls fed by melting ice, while winter offers stunning icy blue glaciers and snow-covered peaks.

What about group size?
The helicopter accommodates 6 to 9 passengers, offering a balance of shared adventure and personal space.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Accurate individual weights are required at booking; significant discrepancies may affect seating or incur additional charges.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown helicopter tour offers a remarkable window into some of New Zealand’s most dramatic natural features. The exclusive landing in Earnslaw Burn allows you to experience a landscape many only see in photos or films, and the flexible seasonal views ensure there’s always something striking to behold.

It’s a worthy splurge for travelers who want a personal, memorable adventure in the mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast eager to capture blue ice or simply seeking a thrilling, scenic escape that you’ll remember for years, this tour fits the bill.

While the cost is on the higher side, the combination of seclusion, spectacular scenery, and the thrill of flying over rugged terrain makes it a valuable addition to a South Island itinerary—especially if you’re craving an experience that’s as close to flying in a movie as you can get.

Ready to elevate your Queenstown adventure? This helicopter ride promises to be one of those stories you’ll love retelling, with images that will stay with you long after your trip ends.