Rakaia Glaciers

If you’re looking for a spectacular way to see some of New Zealand’s most remote and awe-inspiring scenery, a helicopter tour over the Rakaia Glaciers is hard to beat. Starting from Christchurch, this approximately three-hour experience whisks you over the Canterbury Plains, braided rivers, and rugged mountain ranges before touching down near glacial lakes and mountain summits that are otherwise nearly impossible to access. The cost is around $2,470 per person, which may seem steep, but the experience offers a rare opportunity for breathtaking vistas and quiet moments amidst untouched wilderness.

What makes this tour stand out are two key features: first, the flight duration of over two hours, which gives you ample time to soak in the views, and second, the visit to rarely seen glaciers like Lyell and Ramsay, which few travelers ever get to witness firsthand. That said, if you’re not a fan of flying or have medical conditions that limit mobility, this might not be ideal. But for those who love nature, adventure, and photography, this helicopter flight offers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on New Zealand’s dramatic landscape.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers with an appreciation for natural beauty and those wanting to see big, wild, and remote scenery without hiking or camping. It’s also suited for anyone eager to tick off a helicopter experience and see parts of New Zealand that few visitors will ever see.

Key Points

• Incredible Scenic Views: Over Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, and glaciers.
• Unique Access: Visit rarely accessible glaciers like Lyell and Ramsay.
• Comprehensive Experience: The flight lasts over two hours, with multiple iconic sights along the way.
• Authentic Wilderness: Enjoy lunch in an untouched outdoor setting with panoramic mountain views.
• Weather Dependency: The experience relies on clear weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor.
• Private Tour Feel: Only your group participates, making it more personalized.

Exploring the Rakaia Glaciers Helicopter Tour: An In-Depth Review

What to Expect Before You Fly

Your adventure begins at Christchurch Helicopters’ base at Christchurch Airport, where you’ll meet your pilot and guide. The check-in process is straightforward, and most travelers find the whole operation smooth and professional. The tour is billed as a private experience, so you’ll be flying with your own group, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and personalization.

Pricing at approximately $2,470 per person reflects the exclusivity and the high value of this scenic flight. Keep in mind that this includes around two hours and 12 minutes of flight time, so you’re not just getting a quick jaunt but a well-paced aerial tour.

The Flight Itinerary: From Plains to Glaciers

The Canterbury Plains and Waimakariri River

We take off over the flat, gridded Canterbury Plains, which look like a giant patchwork quilt from above. These fertile lands are the breadbasket of the region, but seen from the air, their geometric patterns give way to the untamed beauty of the Waimakariri River, a braided river system with countless channels weaving through rocky beds. Watching this river from above provides a clear sense of how nature’s waterways carve through the landscape.

The Craigieburn Basin and Castle Hill

Next, our pilot hints at the Craigieburn Basin, a dramatic bowl-shaped depression often used as a film set, thanks to its stark, rugged scenery. We then fly past Castle Hill, a famous rock formation popular with climbers and photographers. The curious limestone stacks rise sharply from the landscape, giving a surreal, almost alien look that’s immediately memorable. These stops turn the scenic flight into a visual adventure, making you appreciate the geological forces shaping this part of New Zealand.

Lake Pearson and the Southern Alps

As we head toward the Southern Alps’ main divide, the scenery becomes even more impressive. The glistening Lake Pearson reflects the surrounding mountains, and you’ll notice the stark contrast between the turquoise waters and dark, jagged peaks. The pilot expertly guides the helicopter to offer unobstructed views, and you’ll want to have your camera ready for these iconic sights.

Rakaia, Lyell, and Ramsay Glaciers

The highlight is flying over the Rakaia River, a mighty waterway that shapes the landscape. From here, the helicopter descends toward the rarely visited Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers. These glaciers are inaccessible by road or foot, making their visit a truly special experience. Upon landing, you’re greeted with 360-degree views of razor-sharp mountain peaks and turquoise glacier lakes. It’s a moment of true wilderness, far from the busy world, where silence is punctuated only by the wind and the distant crack of ice.

The Lunch Break in an Outdoor Amphitheatre

One of the standout parts of this tour is enjoying lunch outdoors in this pristine setting. With no one else around, you can truly savor the silence and majesty of the mountains. It’s a simple but memorable experience—dining amid glaciers and towering peaks—that adds a sense of adventure and authenticity not found in typical sightseeing.

Return Flight and Overflight of Lake Coleridge

As you leave the glaciers, the flight ascends over Lake Coleridge, one of New Zealand’s first hydroelectric stations. The views of the lake’s deep blue waters and surrounding mountains offer a peaceful ending to the aerial journey. The return over the Canterbury Plains completes this scenic loop, leaving you with a head full of stunning images.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Many reviewers describe the views as “breathtaking” and “beyond expectations”. One noted, “We loved the way the helicopter swooped over the sharp peaks and turquoise lakes—absolutely stunning.” Others appreciated the quiet, untouched beauty of the glaciers, emphasizing how inaccessible areas like Lyell and Ramsay are only reachable by small aircraft.

Though the flight is lengthy, some mention that the time flies by, thanks to the variety of scenery. However, weather can be unpredictable, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, so flexibility is key. Plus, the high price tag is justified by the exclusivity and quality of the experience, especially if you’re after unique views and remote wilderness.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book well in advance as spots tend to fill quickly.
• Dress in layers; mountain air can be chilly even in summer.
• Bring a good camera with plenty of memory—these sights demand to be captured.
• Be prepared for possible cancellations due to weather, especially if you visit during the winter months when snow might obscure views.
• If you have medical conditions, check with the operator since the flight length and altitude may not suit everyone.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter journey is best suited for adventurers, photography enthusiasts, and nature lovers eager to see remote glaciers and mountain scenery from a new perspective. It’s also a great choice if you appreciate luxury and exclusivity but want an experience rooted in authentic natural beauty. While the price may seem steep, the value lies in access and views that are simply not available elsewhere.

If you want a high-end, unforgettable day that combines scenic beauty with a sense of discovery, this tour is a superb choice. It’s especially appealing for those who love mountain landscapes, glaciers, and untouched wilderness.

FAQ

Is the helicopter tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but due to the length and altitude of the flight, those with serious medical conditions might want to consult a doctor first.

How long is the flight?
The flight itself lasts approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes, giving plenty of time to see multiple sights from above.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Christchurch Helicopters’ base at Christchurch Airport and returns there after the flight.

What are the weather considerations?
This experience is weather-dependent. Poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so flexibility is recommended.

Can I see snow during the tour?
Snow is not guaranteed, especially during summer months (November to February). Visibility depends on current conditions.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private tour, with only your group participating, which makes for a more personalized experience.

How much does this tour cost?
Pricing is about $2,470.17 per person, reflecting the exclusivity and high-quality experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch is enjoyed outdoors amid the glaciers, but the tour fee does not include food; it’s usually a simple outdoor meal.

What kind of views will I see?
You’ll see the Canterbury Plains, braided Waimakariri River, Craigieburn Basin, Castle Hill, Lake Pearson, the Southern Alps, Rakaia River, Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers, and Lake Coleridge.

Is there any group discount?
The description mentions group discounts, so it’s worth checking with the operator if you’re traveling in a group.

The Rakaia Glaciers helicopter tour offers an extraordinary chance to witness New Zealand’s most remote and rugged scenery from a bird’s-eye view. It’s a luxury experience that combines adventure with serenity, perfect for travelers seeking something truly special. The views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and turquoise lakes are unforgettable, especially when experienced from the quiet comfort of a helicopter.

While the price tag might seem high, the exclusivity, panoramic vistas, and access to otherwise unreachable landscapes make it a worthwhile splurge for those who cherish natural beauty and adventure. Whether you’re a photographer, a wilderness lover, or a thrill-seeker, this journey will leave you with memories—and images—that last a lifetime.

If your goal is to see the wild, untouched side of New Zealand in a way few others do, this tour is an excellent choice. Prepare for breathtaking scenery and a true sense of discovery above one of the most stunning regions in the world.