9 Fantastic Helicopter Flights & Tours In Christchurch

Christchurch offers more than just its resilient architecture and lush parks — it’s a city where helicopter flights turn the skyline and surrounding landscapes into a personal playground. Whether you want to get a bird’s-eye view of the city’s rebuilding efforts, soar over the Southern Alps, or combine a scenic helicopter flight with a jet boat ride, this city provides some of New Zealand’s most memorable airborne experiences.

One of our favorites is the YouFly Trial Flight — a true hands-on experience where you actually get to fly a helicopter with an instructor guiding your every move. It’s a chance to tick off “flying a helicopter” from your bucket list while enjoying live commentary and safety reassurance. For those who prefer a more relaxed scenic tour, the Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight offers a beautiful overview of Christchurch’s recovery and highlights like Hagley Park and Lyttelton Harbour.

If you’re after epic scenery, the Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter tour takes you over the Southern Alps and the famous LOTR filming locations, making it a dream for adventurers and film fans alike. And if you’re pressed for time but want a mix of adrenaline and sightseeing, the Christchurch Heli-Jet combines a scenic helicopter ride with an exhilarating jet boat experience in the braided rivers of Canterbury.

Below, you’ll find the full list of the nine best helicopter tours in Christchurch, each with its unique appeal and adventure level. Whether you’re looking for a quick city flight or a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Aoraki Mount Cook, there’s something here for every thrill-seeker and scenery lover.

1. YouFly Trial Flight – Fly a helicopter

At number 1 on our list is the YouFly Trial Flight, which puts you in the pilot’s seat — literally. For around $219, you get a full hour of helicopter fun starting at Christchurch Airport. The experience begins with a thorough safety briefing, and the helicopter is fitted with dual controls, so you’ll be guided step-by-step through takeoff, hover, and landing.

What makes this tour stand out is its hands-on approach: you’re encouraged to take the controls and experience what it feels like to fly under the watchful eye of a qualified instructor. The 30-minute flight takes you over Christchurch’s colorful neighborhoods, with live commentary that explains the city’s recent rebuilding efforts and natural beauty. Many reviews mention how the instructor makes the experience accessible, even for first-timers. One delighted traveler said, “I could really fly by myself,” which speaks to the engaging nature of this adventure.

This tour is ideal for anyone curious about aviation or looking for a memorable, beginner-friendly experience. It’s perfect for those who want the thrill of flying with the reassurance of expert guidance.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for adventure lovers who want to try flying a helicopter in a safe, fun environment.

2. Christchurch: Helicopter Trial Flight

Next up is the Christchurch: Helicopter Trial Flight, rated a perfect 5/5 by reviewers and offering a similar experience of taking control of a helicopter with a qualified instructor. This one-hour flight makes an excellent “life experience” gift or a first taste of helicopter flying for those unsure about committing to a longer tour. The focus here is on excitement — you get to be at the controls for part of the flight, guided by a professional.

The flight’s uniqueness lies in its straightforward, no-nonsense approach: it’s about feeling what it’s like to operate a helicopter while enjoying stunning views of Christchurch and the surrounding landscape. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the staff and how much fun it is to be trusted with the controls.

Best suited for thrill-seekers who want a quick, immersive flying experience, this tour delivers a lot of value in a concise package. It’s also a perfect option if you’re short on time but craving something special.

Bottom Line: For those wanting to get a taste of helicopter piloting without a long commitment, this trial flight hits the mark.

3. Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight

For a shorter but equally impressive experience, the Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight offers a quick overview of the city and its surroundings. You’ll soar over Christchurch’s iconic landmarks, like Hagley Park, the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, and the damaged Christchurch Cathedral, with commentary from a local pilot.

This flight is perfect for those who want a snapshot of Christchurch’s recent transformation from disaster zones to vibrant cityscape. During the 20-minute ride, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the port of Lyttelton and the Banks Peninsula, making it ideal for photographers and history buffs alike. Many reviewers praise the pilot’s insightful commentary and the chance to see Christchurch from above in a compact, affordable package.

This tour suits travelers with limited time or those new to helicopter rides who want to dip their toes into aerial sightseeing. The limited passenger size ensures an intimate experience, and options for different departure times give flexibility.

Bottom Line: A great quick fix for panoramic city views with a knowledgeable pilot.

4. Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour

At number 4, the Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour offers a 20-minute journey over Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. Departing from Christchurch International Airport, this flight showcases some of the most iconic sights, including the ruins of ChristChurch Cathedral, the port of Lyttelton, and the Sumner and Redcliffe suburbs.

Rated 4.5/5 with 21 reviews, it’s praised for its informative pilot commentary and the views of Christchurch’s recovery and growth after the 2010–2011 earthquakes. You’ll also fly over the redeveloped areas like the Red Zone, which has been turned into a river and park corridor. The small group size (only four passengers) guarantees a personal experience.

Photographers will love the opportunity to capture panoramic views of the city, mountains, and coastlines. The flight’s value is high given the comprehensive coverage of Christchurch’s landmarks and the scenic landscapes of Banks Peninsula.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an immersive, detailed aerial overview of Christchurch and its surroundings.

5. Christchurch Heli-Jet – Helicopter and Jet Boat

For combination adventure, the Christchurch Heli-Jet delivers an exhilarating mix of scenery and speed. During this 1.5-hour tour, you’ll first soar over Canterbury’s countryside in a helicopter, then zip through the braided Waimakariri River in a jet boat.

Rated a perfect 5/5, this tour is perfect for families or groups looking for a high-energy experience. It’s a great value, covering both scenic flight and action in one trip, saving time while maximizing fun. The jet boat driver is experienced, and many reviewers comment on how professional and well-organized everything is. The scenic part takes you over farmland and rivers, offering plenty of photo opportunities, while the jet boat offers a wild ride with spins and high-speed fun.

Best suited for those wanting a full adrenaline package with a scenic twist. It’s also good for travelers who want to tick two major New Zealand experiences off their list in one go.

Bottom Line: A perfect combo for thrill-seekers short on time but craving both flying and fast-paced adventure.

6. Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter tour

If you’re after a true bucket-list experience, the Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter tour is an epic 3-hour journey. It’s priced at nearly $2,000 per person but offers unparalleled views of New Zealand’s highest peak and surrounding glaciers.

Starting from Christchurch, the flight takes you over the Canterbury Plains before entering the Southern Alps. You’ll see Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo, and the glacial valleys that inspired many movies and landscape artists. The highlight is landing on remote spots like Liebig Dome or the Tasman Glacier, where you can step out for photos or just marvel at the scale of nature. The pilot provides live commentary, and some tours even include a stop at Mount Cook itself, weather permitting.

This tour is best suited for serious scenery lovers and experienced travelers who want to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The high price reflects the exclusivity and spectacular views, especially suitable for special occasions or those with a flexible schedule.

Bottom Line: The ultimate in scenic helicopter touring, for those who want to see the dramatic peaks and glaciers of New Zealand.

7. Christchurch Helicopter Flights

With a straightforward 35-minute flight, Christchurch Helicopter Flights offers a relaxed but comprehensive aerial tour. Rated 5/5 based on one review, this experience provides a scenic overview of Christchurch and its immediate surroundings. After a safety briefing, you’ll take off from Christchurch International Airport, flying over key landmarks including Hagley Park, the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, and the damaged cathedral.

The pilot shares detailed insights about the city’s recovery, the port of Lyttelton, and the surrounding hills. The small group size enhances the intimacy of this experience, and it’s a perfect introduction for first-time helicopter riders. The flight is priced competitively at just over $200 per person, offering excellent value for a personalized tour with professional commentary.

Ideal for travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive perspective on Christchurch’s evolution and natural beauty, this tour balances affordability with quality.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a compact, insightful aerial tour of Christchurch in a small-group setting.

8. Christchurch to Akaroa with Garden City Helicopters

If a scenic day trip appeals, the Christchurch to Akaroa helicopter tour offers a 2-3 hour journey to this charming French-influenced seaside town. Flying over extinct volcanoes and rugged coastline, you’ll arrive in Akaroa for two hours of exploration. This tour is ideal for those looking to combine beautiful scenery with a leisurely walk through a historic village.

Once on the ground, you can explore shops, cafes, or take a nature walk along the harbor. Returning by helicopter, you’ll enjoy aerial views of the area’s volcanic features and sparkling waters. The experience is especially suited for travelers who want a blend of scenery and culture, with the convenience of a direct flight from Christchurch.

Rated 5/5, the tour’s appeal lies in its stunning views and the opportunity to see a quintessential New Zealand coastal village in a relaxed timeframe.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a scenic, cultural day trip with hassle-free logistics.

9. Christchurch Helicopter Picnic

Finally, the Christchurch Helicopter Picnic is a romantic option designed for couples. This private helicopter flight lands atop Mount Herbert, offering sweeping views of the Canterbury landscape. You’ll enjoy a picnic with sparkling wine while soaking in the scenery, making it perfect for proposals or anniversaries.

The flight lasts about 30 minutes, with the landing at Mount Herbert giving you plenty of time for snacks and photos. The experience is customizable, and the inclusion of wine and local treats adds a special touch. The reviews are still pending, but with the emphasis on privacy and scenic beauty, it’s a great choice for a special occasion.

This tour is best for couples or those celebrating milestones who value intimacy and a scenic setting. It’s a luxurious, memorable way to combine scenery and romance.

Bottom Line: The top pick for romantic getaways and memorable celebrations in Christchurch.

How to Choose Your Helicopter Adventure

When selecting a helicopter tour in Christchurch, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re eager to learn and try flying yourself, the YouFly Trial Flight offers a unique hands-on experience. For stunning landscapes and iconic views, the Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter is unmatched but requires a larger time and budget commitment.

Travelers short on time might opt for the city overview flights like the 20-minute city tour. If you want a mix of adventure and scenery, the Heli-Jet pairing provides a high-energy combo. For something truly special, consider the helicopter picnic or the Akaroa day trip for a blend of scenery, culture, and romance.

Booking early is advised, especially for peak seasons and popular slots. Weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility with your schedule can help ensure you get the best views.

Final Thoughts

Whether you crave the thrill of controlling a helicopter, want panoramic views of Christchurch and the surrounding mountains, or are looking to combine scenery with adventure, Christchurch has options to suit every desire. The YouFly Trial Flight and Christchurch City Flights are perfect for beginners and those short on time, while the Aoraki Mount Cook tour is ideal for serious landscape lovers. For a romantic twist, the helicopter picnic promises a memorable experience.

Booking early and choosing the right tour for your interests will ensure you make the most of Christchurch’s spectacular scenery from above. Whatever your choice, the skies over Christchurch are ready to welcome you to an unforgettable adventure.