Christchurch , New Zealand

Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour

Active

(21 reviews)

20m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sit back and relax aboard a helicopter over Ōtautahi Christchurch, New Zealand’s newest city—a place where resilience meets regeneration. Years after the earthquakes, Christchurch thrives as a vibrant, evolving city that still honors its Garden City roots. From above, see Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens, and Deans Bush / Pūtaringamotu—green jewels in the city’s heart. Below, bold new precincts mix with restored heritage buildings. Gaze at laneways, central bars, the Margaret Mahy Playground, and the iconic Town Hall. The cultural core pulses with life—home to The Court Theatre, The Piano, and Isaac Theatre Royal. Te Kaha, the new One New Zealand Stadium, gleams—future home of concerts, world-class rugby, and Crusader victories. To the east, the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor transforms the Red Zone into an urban sanctuary. Beyond, fly over the Port Hills to Banks Peninsula: Diamond Harbour, Lyttelton Port, Sumner, and Pegasus Bay—where nature, culture, past, and future connect.

Available options

Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour

What's included

Live commentary from pilot

A fantastic aerial view of Christchurch City and harbour

Detailed itinerary

After a safety briefing, Depart from our helibase at Christchurch International Airport by helicopter to view Otautahi, Christchurch from the air.

Stop 2 Pass by

An aerial view of the many green spaces of Ōtautahi, Christchurch. Such as: Dean Bush, The Red Zone and Hagley Park. Within Hagley Park is the Christchurch Botanical Gardens. A 21 hectare park with more than 10 different gardens framed by mature trees and expansive lawns, which are mostly contained within a loop of the Avon River.

Christchurch Cathedral is the focal point of Cathedral Square in the heart of Otautahi, Christchurch. This place of Anglican worship, which was badly damaged in the 2011 earthquake. View down on the repair work being done to restore this city landmark.

Stop 4 Pass by

Look down on the red zone of Christchurch, once filled with homes prior to the earthquakes and now a holistic project to connect people, river and land, now known as the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor project

Look down on Lyttelton Harbour / Whakaraupō, one of two major inlets of Banks Peninsula. A harbour formed by an ancient volcano that has been flooded by the sea. A busy port for the city of Christchurch.

View the beauty of the Diamond Harbour

View Quail Island from the air. Canterbury's largest island in the diamond Harbour

Stop 8 Pass by

View the Port Hills, a range of hills in Canterbury, named because they lie between the city of Christchurch and the sea port at Lyttelton. They are an eroded remnant of the Lyttelton volcano.

Awaroa/Godley Head. Magnificent coastal military defence sites built during World War Two.

Sumner beach is a coastal seaside suburb that is a popular spot for surfing and swimming and sea fishing

From Waimairi to Southshore, the New Brighton beaches are just one of the many of Pegasus Bay.
The New Brighton pier is the longest in Australasia, an icon of the Canterbury region.

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No Child prices

Infant age is 0 to 2 years old are free and must be seated on the lap of a fare paying adult

Customers in wheelchairs will need to be able to lift themselves in the helicopter or have a care person to help them. A fare will be require if care person must travel with.

Trip is weather dependent

We require a minimum number of fares for flights to depart. Flight will be cancelled if minimum number of fares is not reached.

Pilot will decide on seating of passengers in the helicopter. Pilot must operate helicopter within the weight and balance requirements of the aircraft

You must reconfirm you booking 24 hours prior to departure to check weather conditions

Passengers will be weighed on check in, we will ask on booking for your estimated weight

weight limitations apply

Important notes

Check in at our reception at Garden City Helicopters

About Christchurch

Christchurch is known for its English heritage, vibrant arts scene, and extensive parks and gardens. The city is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the South Island, including the Southern Alps and Kaikoura's coastal wonders.

Top Attractions

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

A beautiful 30-hectare garden located in the city center, featuring a diverse range of plants, a duck pond, and a conservatory.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (conservatory entry is NZD 10 for adults, NZD 5 for children)

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu

The largest public art gallery in New Zealand, showcasing a diverse collection of New Zealand and international art.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (some special exhibitions may have an entry fee)

Quake City

An interactive museum dedicated to the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, providing a unique insight into the events and their impact on the city.

Historical 1 hour NZD 25 for adults, NZD 10 for children (under 13 free)

Lyttelton

A charming port town with a rich history, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and beautiful coastal views.

Historical Half day Free to explore, some attractions may have entry fees

Akaroa

A picturesque French-inspired settlement located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its beautiful harbor, wildlife, and historic charm.

Nature Full day Free to explore, some attractions and tours may have entry fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Whitebait Fritters

A traditional New Zealand dish made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and flour, then fried in a patty form.

Snack Contains fish and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians or those with fish allergies

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and crunchy honeycomb pieces.

Dessert Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies

Lamb Rack

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Whale watching Dolphin encounters Hot springs Spa treatments Beach relaxation

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this time.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Christchurch is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, which may present some challenges and hazards.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour operators
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Christchurch International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By bus

Christchurch Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro bus network is the primary mode of public transport in Christchurch. Buses are frequent and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Free Ride

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central City Riccarton Sumner Lyttelton

Day trips

Arthur's Pass National Park

130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day

A stunning national park in the Southern Alps, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.

Kaikoura

180 km (112 miles) from Christchurch • Full day

A coastal town known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities, including whale watching, dolphin encounters, and hiking.

Hanmer Springs

130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day

A popular hot spring and spa town, offering a range of relaxation and outdoor activities, including hot pools, hiking, and mountain biking.

Festivals

Christchurch Arts Festival • Every two years in August Christchurch International Jazz Festival • Annually in November Lyttelton Arts Festival • Annually in November

Pro tips

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful and relaxing experience, especially during spring and summer
Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting the Christchurch Art Gallery, Ōtautahi Creative Spaces, and other local galleries and studios
Take a day trip to Arthur's Pass National Park, Kaikoura, or Hanmer Springs for a taste of the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities available in the surrounding region
Try local foods and dishes, such as whitebait fritters, hokey pokey ice cream, and lamb rack, as well as the city's thriving coffee culture
Be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, and follow local safety guidelines and warnings