Queenstown: Remarakbles Helicopter Tour with Alpine Landing

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing Queenstown from above, this helicopter tour promises a taste of high-altitude adventure combined with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery New Zealand has to offer. It’s a quick, 20-minute jaunt, but one that packs in eye-popping views and an unforgettable landing on top of The Remarkables. We’re here to give you an honest look at what makes this experience special — and what to watch out for.

Three things we love: The chance to get up close with The Remarkables, the stunning photo opportunities, and the friendly, knowledgeable pilots guiding the way. The incredible views of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown from above definitely steal the show. On the flip side, a possible snag is the flight duration — some might find 10 minutes in the air feels a bit quick for the price. Still, this tour is perfect for first-timers or anyone craving a striking aerial snapshot of New Zealand’s iconic landscape.

This experience is best suited for travelers craving a quick, scenic thrill with a dash of adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment, looking for a unique way to see Queenstown, or simply want a memorable story to tell, this helicopter trip offers a compact but stunning escape into the mountains.

Key Points

• Spectacular Mountain Views: Get up close with The Remarkables for photo-worthy scenery.
• Breathtaking Aerial Perspective: See Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and surrounding rivers from the sky.
• Alpine Landing: Reach 1,500 metres for a memorable mountain top experience.
• Includes Inflight Commentary: Learn from knowledgeable pilots about the landscape.
• Optional Hotel Pickup/Dropoff: Convenient transportation options.
• Weather-Dependent: Flight routes and landing spots may change due to conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This helicopter ride is a short but sweet adventure that offers a fresh perspective on Queenstown’s striking landscape. The journey begins with a pickup — if you choose the optional transport — and a quick check-in at the helipad. Once aboard, you’re greeted by friendly crew and a pilot who’s eager to share insights as you take off.

The first thing you’ll notice is how much more dramatic Queenstown looks from above. Lake Wakatipu winds its way through the mountains, and the town itself feels small and charming from this vantage point. The pilot will point out key landmarks, rivers, and mountain ranges, making the flight both scenic and educational.

The Flight Itself: A 20-Minute Snapshot

The actual flying time is around 10 minutes, but that’s enough to see a decent chunk of this rugged landscape. Expect to fly over the winding Shotover and Kawarau rivers, which are known for their adventure activities but look even more stunning from the air. From here, you’ll ascend towards The Remarkables — a mountain range renowned for its dramatic peaks and alpine scenery.

The Remarkables Alpine Landing

The highlight is the landing on top of The Remarkables, at over 1,500 metres above sea level. Should weather cooperate (and conditions are generally good, but it’s weather-dependent), you’ll step out onto the mountain’s summit. Some reviews mention the possibility of landing in snow during winter, adding a magical touch to the experience.

Once on the mountain, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the views, snap photos, and maybe even get a few tips from your pilot about the surrounding geography. The sense of being on top of a mountain, with panoramic vistas in every direction, is genuinely unforgettable.

What You’ll See and Experience

Expect a variety of sights during your short flight. The pilot’s commentary adds context to the scenery, highlighting the area’s geological features and notable landmarks. The views of Queenstown’s compact town center, nestled beside the shimmering Lake Wakatipu, are postcard-perfect.

As you ascend, the landscape becomes more dramatic with rugged peaks, snow-capped during winter, and the winding rivers below. The Remarkables range itself is an awe-inspiring sight, with jagged peaks that earned their name.

Photographers will love the opportunity to capture the alpine landscapes from extraordinary angles. The helicopter’s vantage point offers unique perspectives that are hard to replicate from the ground.

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Authenticity and Special Moments

One advantage is the opportunity for personalized moments. Several reviews mention pilots like James, who took time to take photos of guests on the mountain, making the experience feel more intimate and special. It’s a perfect chance for a proposal or wedding photos, given the breathtaking backdrop.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking

The tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, with most flights conducted in the morning or afternoon. The actual flying time in the air is around 10 minutes, but the entire experience, including preparation and landing, takes slightly longer.

Pricing is $170 per person, which some might consider on the higher side for a 10-minute scenic flight. However, when you factor in the alpine landing, the stunning views, and the personalized commentary, many find that it offers great value for such an iconic experience.

The experience includes: – A scenic helicopter flight, – One alpine landing, – Inflight commentary from your pilot, – Optional hotel pickup and dropoff. Food is not included, so plan to eat before or after your adventure.

Group size is typically 6 to 9 passengers, making it a shared experience but still intimate enough for good views and interaction. Seating is assigned based on weight and balance, so specific seats can’t be guaranteed.

Weather and Safety

Since the flight is weather-dependent, cancellations or route adjustments are possible. Safety is a priority, and the airline will reschedule if conditions aren’t suitable. It’s worth noting that the experience is suitable for wheelchair users, and the provider offers flexibility for different needs.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What travelers love: The knowledgeable pilots, like James, who make guests comfortable and even help with photos. The stunning scenery from both the air and the mountain top leaves a lasting impression. Many mention that even with cloud cover, the views still exceeded expectations.

What could be better: The flight duration may feel a bit brief for some, especially given the price. One reviewer noted that they only spent about 10 minutes in the air, so if you’re after a longer ride, this might not be the best fit. Also, the landing spot’s accessibility is weather-dependent, so flexibility is key.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter and mountain landing combo is ideal for those who want a quick but impactful helicopter experience. It suits first-timers, adventure lovers, and those celebrating special occasions. It’s perfect if you want a photo-rich adventure with minimal time commitment, but perhaps not the best choice if you’re after a longer flight or multiple landings.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown helicopter tour offers a beautiful quick escape into New Zealand’s mountainous landscape. The spectacular views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and The Remarkables from above, combined with the thrill of landing atop a mountain, make it a truly memorable experience.

While the short flight duration and price might make some travelers pause, the personalized touches, excellent pilot commentary, and stunning scenery justify the experience for many. It’s especially suited to those looking for an iconic photo opportunity or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Ultimately, this tour delivers a high-value glimpse into Queenstown’s natural beauty — perfect for travelers craving a scenic highlight that’s easy to fit into a busy itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire experience last?
The total experience lasts about 20 minutes, including prep, flying, and landing.

What is the flight duration in the air?
Expect approximately 10 minutes of actual flying time.

Can I choose my seat on the helicopter?
Seating is assigned based on weight and balance, so specific seats aren’t guaranteed.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup and dropoff are optional and available if you select that package.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially if landing in winter snow.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the provider states the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Will I see snow during the flight?
If flying in winter, there’s a chance to land in snow, adding to the magic.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Flights are weather-dependent; the operator may reschedule or adjust routes for safety.

Is food included?
No, food isn’t included, so plan accordingly before or after your flight.

Whether you’re after a quick shot of adventure or an incredible photo opportunity, this helicopter trip over Queenstown and The Remarkables offers a memorable way to see New Zealand’s stunning landscapes from above. Just be ready for a brief but intensely scenic ride that captures some of the best mountain views the South Island has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: