Milford and Fiordland Highlights Tour by Helicopter from Queenstown

Queenstown , New Zealand

Milford and Fiordland Highlights Tour by Helicopter from Queenstown

Active

(17 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

View alpine lakes, rivers, forests, glacial valleys, and ice capped mountains from above with this 2-2.5 hour helicopter tour. Fly over the fiord and enjoy landing on a remote west coast beach and an alpine glacier!

Available options

Private Squirrel AS350

Exclusive in the Squirrel helicopter

Share With Others

Book per seat on a shared helicopter

Private Eurocopter EC130B4

Exclusive in the Eurocopter Helicopter

What's included

Complimentary Pickup and Drop-off

Shared or private helicopter options available

Glacier and West Coast Beach landing with helicopter shut down to experience complete serenity of the surrounds

Scenic Helicopter tour

Complimentary car parking

Live commentary in English from your knowledgeable pilot

Luxury and pristine range of helicopters within the fleet

Applicable National park, landing and facility fees

Dramatically stunning views in the Fiordland National Park

Amazing opportunity to capture the most photographic scenery in New Zealand

Detailed itinerary

Departure lounge

Over The Top’s Milford Highlights excursion combines all the aspects of Milford Sound, the West Coast and the surrounding Southern Alps glacier areas. You helicopter will lift off from Queenstown and fly you high over the snow-capped Southern Alps to the stunningly beautiful Milford Sound. Sit back and enjoy the view as you fly down Milford Sound giving you a birds-eye view of the waterfalls and rainforests below. Continue through to the mouth of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea and head north to land on a remote West Coast beach. Take a stroll on this uninhabited beach before lifting again to step out into an alpine environment – a stark contrast to the coast just moments before. At each landing site, the helicopter is fully shut down so you can enjoy the quiet serenity of this pristine environment. Take your time to explore and photograph this magical place.

What's not included

Food and Beverage - options available to pre purchase

Gratuities

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Pricing is based either per person or per helicopter at one rate

Maximum 6 – 9 passengers per helicopter

Subject to favourable weather conditions. If we are unable to fly due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative flight or full refund

Minimum passenger numbers apply for Shared flights

There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements on shared flights. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will be walking in uneven terrain

A warm layer is recommended to bring with you or wear

You will be contacted either the day prior or the day of your booking to confirm based on weather conditions

What to bring – a warm layer, sunglasses, camera & a smile

Meeting point

Blue Hanger at the end of Tex Smith Lane

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

About Queenstown

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Queenstown Garden

Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb

New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.

Main Course Contains meat

Green-Lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Pavlova

Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Bungee jumping Skydiving Jet boating Hiking Mountain biking Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic cruises

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Queenstown Bus Interchange

Getting around

Public transport

Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Queenstown Frankton Arrowtown

Day trips

Milford Sound

120 km from Queenstown • Full day

Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.

Glenorchy

45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day

Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.

Wanaka

65 km from Queenstown • Full day

Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Festivals

Queenstown Winter Festival • June Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.