Queenstown: Remarakbles Helicopter Tour with Alpine Landing

Imagine soaring high above the shimmering waters of Lake Whakatipu, with the dramatic Remarkables mountain range unfolding beneath you. For just $170 per person and a mere 20-minute flight, this helicopter tour offers an exhilarating taste of Queenstown’s rugged beauty. Led by friendly pilots who add expert commentary, this experience is perfect for those craving breathtaking scenery and a touch of adventure.

What we particularly love about this tour is the up-close view of the Remarkables, a mountain range so strikingly named and so uniquely aligned north-south, it’s a sight that sticks in your mind. Plus, the alpine landing at over 1,500 meters offers a rare chance to step onto snow-dusted peaks (depending on the season). On the flip side, a possible drawback is the short duration—with only 10 minutes in the air according to some reviews, you might find yourself wishing for a longer experience. However, this quick flight is a fantastic introduction for first-timers or those with tight schedules. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Queenstown’s grandeur without overcommitting.

This tour would appeal most to photographers, thrill-seekers, or romantic couples planning a proposal. The chance to photograph epic mountain vistas from above, land on snowy or alpine terrain, and enjoy a personalized aerial experience makes it a memorable highlight of any trip.

Key Points

• Unbeatable Views: See Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu, and The Remarkables from a perspective only accessible by helicopter
• Alpine Landing: Land over 1,500 meters high, often in snow during winter, for spectacular photos and a unique experience
• Short & Sweet: 20-minute adventure, ideal as an intro to helicopter tours or for those with limited time
• Inclusive Amenities: Inflight commentary and optional hotel pickup and dropoff add convenience
• Great for Photos & Special Occasions: Perfect for capturing memories or even popping the question in a stunning setting
• Mixed Reviews on Duration: Some travelers wish for longer flight time, as the flight itself can feel brief

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When we think about helicopter tours, often it’s about the views—mountains, lakes, and the thrill of flying. This Queenstown experience delivers on that front with a 20-minute scenic flight that packs in a lot of visual drama. The journey begins with a pickup (if you choose the optional transfer), whisking you from your hotel to the helicopter base, where a friendly crew welcomes you.

Boarding the helicopter is straightforward, with seating arranged to ensure safety and balance—seats are assigned based on weight, so don’t fret if you don’t get your preferred spot. Once airborne, your pilot offers commentary, pointing out notable landmarks like the winding Kawarau and Shotover rivers. We loved the way the pilot’s insights made the landscape come alive, helping us understand what we were seeing.

The highlight of the flight is the aerial view of The Remarkables. These mountains are a photographer’s dream—jagged peaks, snow caps (in winter), and the sheer scale of the landscape leave you breathless. If weather conditions are clear, you might even land in the snow, a magical experience that makes for fantastic photos and memories. One reviewer mentioned that their pilot, James, took photos of them on the mountain, adding a personal touch to an already special outing.

The alpine landing is the key feature here. Over 1,500 meters above sea level, you step onto terrain that feels truly remote. For many, this moment is the pinnacle—standing amid towering peaks, possibly with snow underfoot, and taking in views that stretch for miles. Whether it’s winter or summer, the scenery is undeniably impressive.

Back in the helicopter, the return flight offers more vistas of Queenstown’s lakes and mountains, with some passengers commenting that the views, even with partial cloud cover, exceeded expectations. Our review and others’ reviews show that weather can impact the experience—clear skies enhance the scenery, but even when cloudy, the dramatic landscape still impresses.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes the 20-minute scenic flight, the alpine landing, and inflight commentary from the pilot. Optional hotel pickup and dropoff makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Queenstown. The only thing not included is food, so plan ahead if you want a snack or meal before or after the flight.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, a considerate feature for travelers with mobility needs.

Practical Considerations

A few important details: seating is assigned based on weight for safety reasons, and there are minimum passenger numbers required to confirm the flight. The shared experience means you’ll be flying with a small group of 6 to 9 passengers, which can feel intimate but also means you might be sharing the experience with strangers.

Weather conditions are a key factor—flights are dependent on conditions and may be rescheduled or routes adjusted for safety. It’s good to keep this in mind, especially during unpredictable seasons.

Weight restrictions are in place, so you’ll need to provide accurate weights at booking. This is standard for helicopter operations but worth noting if you’re close to the limit.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer from Australia expressed mild disappointment about the duration, noting that the flight was only about 10 minutes in the air, which felt short compared to other helicopter rides they’ve experienced. However, others found it to be “the highlight of their trip”, praising the knowledgeable pilot James, and describing the experience as “magical”.

Another traveler from New Zealand shared that cloud cover threatened to spoil the view, but the pilot’s reassurance and the landing’s scenic beauty proved them wrong. Many appreciated the personalized touches, such as photos taken by the pilot during the mountain landing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Analyzing Value for Money

At $170, this tour offers a glimpse of Queenstown’s stunning landscape from a perspective that’s otherwise inaccessible. While some wish for longer flight time, the spectacular views and alpine landing provide a good value, especially considering the unique photographic opportunities and the chance to stand amid the mountains. For those wanting a light, memorable adventure without a huge time commitment, this is a good pick.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a quick, visually stunning experience that’s manageable within a day, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, couples celebrating a special moment, or anyone eager for a photo opportunity on top of snow-dusted peaks. Keep in mind, if you’re a seasoned helicopter enthusiast seeking a longer or more expansive flight, you might find this experience a bit brief.

The Sum Up

This helicopter tour over Queenstown and The Remarkables offers a beautiful, accessible way to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. The alpine landing adds a unique dimension, turning a scenic flight into a memorable adventure. While the short duration might leave some wishing for more airtime, the stunning vistas, friendly pilots, and easy logistics make it a compelling choice.

It’s best suited for travelers looking for an intimate, picture-worthy experience—whether for a special occasion or a quick taste of adventure. If you’re after breathtaking scenery combined with a dash of thrill, this helicopter trip is worth considering during your stay in Queenstown.

FAQs

• How long is the helicopter flight?
  The flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, though some reviews note the actual airborne time may be closer to 10 minutes.

• What does the experience include?
  It includes one alpine landing, a 20-minute scenic flight, and inflight commentary. Hotel pickup and dropoff are optional.

• Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
  Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm with the provider about specific needs.

• What should I bring?
  Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing (especially in winter), and your camera for photos.

• Can I choose my seat?
  Seating is assigned based on weight and balance for safety reasons, so specific seats cannot be guaranteed.

• What if the weather is bad?
  Flights are weather dependent and may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety. The provider offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

• Is this a shared experience?
  Yes, you’ll be flying with 6 to 9 passengers in the helicopter, which creates a more intimate atmosphere.

This helicopter tour offers a fine balance of adventure, scenery, and convenience. While it may not satisfy those seeking a lengthy aerial exploration, it provides a brief but breathtaking glimpse of Queenstown’s rugged landscapes and alpine peaks. Perfect for a quick adventure that leaves you with unforgettable images and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: