Wellington is a city that begs to be seen from above. Its compact size, dramatic coastline, lush green hills, and iconic landmarks make it an ideal candidate for helicopter tours. Whether you want a quick overview of the city’s top sights or a longer excursion over the South Coast and Marlborough Sounds, Wellington offers options for every taste and budget. One of our favorites is the Scenic Wellington Helicopter Flight, which offers a quick yet stunning glimpse of Wellington’s most famous landmarks. The sense of flying over Parliament, the Museum of New Zealand, and forests surrounding the city is unforgettable — and at just around $108 per person, it’s a perfect intro to helicopter adventures.
For those wanting to combine scenic views with a taste of local culture and nature, the Wellington South Coast Discovery Helicopter Flight stands out. Covering a broader area in about 40 minutes, it includes sightings of seal colonies, rugged shores, and the lush outskirts of Wellington. If a shorter, 15-minute harbor flight appeals, the Wellington Harbour Helicopter Flight offers a quick but comprehensive aerial overview of Wellington’s harbor and nearby islands. For a touch of luxury, the Bay of Many Coves Heli-lunch provides an extraordinary dining experience in Marlborough Sounds, accessible only by helicopter and boat.
Below, we detail each of these top Wellington helicopter tours, so you can decide which one best suits your interests, schedule, and budget.
- 1. Scenic Wellington Helicopter Flight
- 2. Wellington South Coast Discovery Helicopter Flight
- 3. Wellington Helicopters Scenic Harbour Flight
- 4. Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough Sounds – Heli-lunch from Wellington
- 5. 15-Minute Wellington Harbour Helicopter Flight
- How to Choose Your Wellington Helicopter Tour
1. Scenic Wellington Helicopter Flight
At number 1 on our list is the Scenic Wellington Helicopter Flight. For just $108.60 per person, you’ll enjoy about 9 minutes of breathtaking aerial views over Wellington. This short but sweet tour is perfect if you’re pressed for time but want to see the city from a new angle. It departs both morning and afternoon, giving flexibility for your schedule.
The flight covers Wellington’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Museum of New Zealand, Parliament House, and the forests surrounding the city center. You’ll be able to hear the pilot’s commentary clearly through headsets, which enhances the experience and helps you identify what you’re seeing. From the air, the coastline provides an impressive backdrop, offering sweeping views of the rugged South Island terrain and the harbor.
This tour is highly rated, with all 22 reviews giving a perfect 5-star rating. Reviewers mention the clarity of the pilot’s narration, the beautiful weather, and the unforgettable views. It’s ideal for first-time helicopter riders or those wanting a quick, scenic overview of Wellington. With its affordability, this flight offers great value for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect quick introduction to Wellington’s sights, especially if you’re new to helicopter flights or short on time but still want stunning views.
2. Wellington South Coast Discovery Helicopter Flight
Coming in at number 2 is the Wellington South Coast Discovery Helicopter Flight. For around $269, you get approximately 40 minutes of expansive aerial sightseeing — a substantial upgrade over the shorter city tour. This tour is ideal if you want a deeper look at Wellington’s natural environment and cultural highlights.
Departing from Wellington, your helicopter soars over the rugged South Coast, revealing seals at Tongue Point, dramatic cliffs, and the dense coastal forests. As you fly, the pilot provides insightful commentary about the region’s culture, history, and environment through included headsets, making it both a scenic and educational experience. You’ll also see the seal colonies and get excellent photo opportunities of the lush surroundings.
What makes this tour stand out is its coverage. It takes you over areas that are difficult to reach on foot and offers a well-rounded view of Wellington’s outskirts and the coast beyond. Reviewers rave about the comfort of the helicopter, the engaging pilot, and the variety of scenery, with some noting it as “worth every cent.”
Bottom Line: This is a great choice for travelers who want a longer, more immersive aerial experience combining scenic beauty with informative commentary.
3. Wellington Helicopters Scenic Harbour Flight
At number 3, the Wellington Helicopters Scenic Harbour Flight offers a 15-minute journey that explores Wellington Harbour in depth. Priced affordably, this tour is perfect for those who want a quick but comprehensive view of the harbor and nearby landmarks.
During this flight, you’ll see Matiu Somes Island, Cook Strait, and key downtown sights like the Parliament buildings and Te Papa museum. The pilot’s insights add context to the visuals, turning a simple scenic flight into a mini geography lesson. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want a memorable aerial perspective.
The 19 reviews give it a 4.7-star rating, with many highlighting the stunning views and friendly guides. This trip is best suited for curious travelers eager to see Wellington from above without committing a lot of time or money.
Bottom Line: A concise and affordable way to get a bird’s-eye view of Wellington’s harbor and landmarks, ideal for a quick sightseeing boost.
4. Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough Sounds – Heli-lunch from Wellington
Positioned at number 4, the Bay of Many Coves Heli-lunch is the most luxurious tour on our list. For about $661, you get a nearly 3-hour experience that combines a scenic helicopter flight with a gourmet 3-course lunch at the Bay of Many Coves Resort. This resort can only be reached by helicopter or boat, making it an exclusive destination.
The journey begins on Wellington’s waterfront, flying over Cook Strait as you cross from the North to the South Island. The views include the picturesque bays, islands, and the rugged coastline of Marlborough Sounds. Once at the resort, you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh local ingredients, all while soaking in the stunning scenery.
This tour is perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a truly indulgent escape. The reviews emphasize the “beautiful flight” and the “amazing lunch,” with many mentioning the staff’s professionalism and the breathtaking setting. The value is high for those wanting a combination of adventure, luxury, and excellent food.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking to splurge on a private, scenic escape combined with fine dining in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful settings.
5. 15-Minute Wellington Harbour Helicopter Flight
Finally, at number 5 is the 15-Minute Wellington Harbour Helicopter Flight. This quick, affordable flight costs about $186 per person and offers a solid overview of Wellington Harbour and some city landmarks.
This flight is suited for travelers who want a taste of helicopter flying without a big time commitment. Departing from Wellington, you’ll soar over the harbor, with views of Matiu Somes Island, Cook Strait, and Wellington’s skyline. The pilot provides informative commentary about the harbor’s environment, making it both an educational and scenic experience.
With 9 reviews giving it a 4-star rating, this tour is appreciated for its efficient coverage and friendly service. It’s a good choice if you want to maximize your sightseeing time with a short but memorable flight.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those seeking a quick, scenic introduction to Wellington from the air.
How to Choose Your Wellington Helicopter Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your schedule, budget, and what you want most out of the experience. For a quick taste of Wellington, the Scenic Wellington Helicopter Flight offers fantastic value. If you’re after a longer immersion in coastal scenery and wildlife, the South Coast Discovery is ideal. For a luxurious treat, the Bay of Many Coves Heli-lunch makes for a memorable special occasion.
Think about the flight duration, sightseeing highlights, and whether you prefer a quick overview or an extended exploration. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular longer and luxury tours, to secure availability.
Wellington’s helicopter tours range from brief city glimpses to full coastal explorations and indulgent lunches. For first-timers, the Scenic Wellington Helicopter Flight is a fantastic start. For those with more time or special occasions, the Marlborough Sounds Heli-lunch offers an unforgettable experience. Whatever your choice, flying above Wellington provides a perspective that turns a good trip into a truly memorable adventure.