Our 6 Favorite Kaikoura Helicopter Flights & Tours

Kaikoura is a standout destination for helicopter tours because of its dramatic coastline, rugged mountain ranges, and rich marine life. Whether you want to see whales breaching far below, soar over snow-capped peaks, or land on remote hilltops, this small town offers some of New Zealand’s most memorable aerial adventures. One reason we love these experiences is their ability to combine wildlife viewing with breathtaking scenery—imagine spotting a pod of whales from the air or landing atop a mountain for panoramic views. For instance, the 45-Minute Whale Watching Ocean Safari offers a longer, more relaxed flight to increase your chances of whale sightings and coastal photography.

Many tours also include unique landings, like remote mountain peaks or secluded hilltops, that allow you to step outside the helicopter and soak in the environment. These trips are ideal for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture the landscape from a new perspective. With options ranging from quick scenic flights to multi-hour private adventures, there’s a helicopter experience in Kaikoura for nearly every type of traveler.

Quick Overview

This guide features a variety of helicopter tours in Kaikoura, including whale watching, mountain sightseeing, and even a gin tasting flight. They range from 45-minute scenic rides to 3-hour private explorations. To help you choose, I’ve included detailed descriptions and insights on what makes each tour special, with links to the experiences for easy booking. Now, let’s dive into what each one offers.

1. Kaikoura Whale Watching – 45 Minute Ocean Safari

At number 1, this 45-minute whale watching helicopter tour offers a fantastic balance of wildlife viewing and scenic landings. It’s rated a perfect 5.0 based on 39 reviews, which says a lot about its quality. The flight takes you over the Kaikoura Canyon, a prime spot for spotting Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, and Blue whales, depending on the season. The extended flight gives ample time for whale sightings and stunning coastal views.

One highlight is the landing at a remote site accessible only by helicopter—think of it as the VIP treatment for wildlife fans and photographers. You’ll also see Dusky dolphins and fur seals along the shoreline, adding to the marine spectacle. The tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, with the aerial whale viewing being the main focus. Many reviewers mention how close they felt to these gentle giants, even from above. The scenic landings atop coastal hills provide panoramic views of the mountains and ocean, making this a layered experience.

Bottom Line: For a comprehensive wildlife and scenery experience, this tour offers excellent value at $511.97 per person. Its longer duration and exclusive landings make it ideal for serious nature enthusiasts or those wanting a bigger dose of marine life.

2. Kaikoura: 1-Hour Whale Watching Helicopter Tour

This 1-hour whale watching helicopter flight is a perfect choice for travelers wanting a slightly longer, more detailed view of Kaikoura’s marine wonders. Rated a flawless 5/5 with 9 reviews, it offers a comprehensive aerial experience that includes landings on mountain peaks. You’ll take off from Kaikoura Airport and soar over the Seaward Kaikoura Range, with the chance to land on Mt Fyffe—an excellent spot for panoramic photos.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of whale sightings and mountain landings, providing a sense of scale and diversity not found on shorter flights. The guide provides insights into Kaikoura’s marine environment and local geography, enriching your understanding of the landscape below. During the flight, you’ll see whales from tip to tail, an experience that’s both awe-inspiring and educational. Some flights even include snow landings if traveling in winter, adding a layer of adventure.

Bottom Line: For around $511.97 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded aerial adventure with a focus on marine wildlife and mountain vistas. It’s best suited for those who want a longer, more immersive experience with a touch of mountain exploration.

3. Kaikōura: 45-Minute Whale Watching Helicopter Tour

The 45-minute whale watching helicopter tour is perfect if you want a shorter, punchy experience focused on marine life. It’s rated a perfect 5/5 with 8 reviews, emphasizing its quality and popularity. The flight is designed to give you a bird’s-eye view of the whales and coastal scenery, with a scenic landing in the mountains to add a special touch.

What sets this tour apart is the emphasis on a quick, high-impact whale encounter paired with dramatic mountain views. You’ll fly along the coast, spotting pods of whales swimming in the Pacific, with great photo opportunities of snow-capped mountains if in season. The landing provides a chance to step out in a secluded spot and take in the majestic scenery from a quiet vantage point.

Bottom Line: For those short on time but wanting a memorable whale and mountain experience, this 45-minute flight gives you the essentials at a competitive price, with the chance to see whales from above and land on a mountain for a spectacular view.

4. Helicopter Gin Tasting Tour in the Mountains Kaikoura

This heli-Gin tour is a one-of-a-kind experience combining scenic flight with a private gin tasting. At about $2,694.14 for around 90 minutes, it’s a premium adventure with up to five passengers. The tour whisks you over the Peninsula and Seaward Kaikōura ranges, culminating in a landing on Mt Fyffe, where you meet Justine Schroder, owner of Mt Fyffe Distillery.

What makes this tour stand out is its exclusive combination of stunning mountain views and a personal introduction to New Zealand’s craftsmanship—sampling Mt Fyffe Gin right at its mountain source. The pilot shares insights about the landscape during the flight, making it as educational as it is scenic. The experience is perfect for travelers who want to indulge in local flavors and enjoy a scenic flight that’s more intimate and luxurious.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a unique, private experience that combines scenic beauty with a taste of local spirits, this helicopter and gin tasting tour offers an unforgettable day in Kaikoura.

5. Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour

Rated at 5.0 based on 1 review, the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour is a 90-minute journey into New Zealand’s rugged interior. It climbs over 8,000-foot peaks in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, offering views of the highest mountains outside the Southern Alps. The tour departs from Kaikoura and takes you over the rugged coastline, inland mountains, and even remote stations like Puhi Peaks, home to Hutton’s Shearwater colonies.

This experience is especially appealing to those interested in mountain landscapes and geology. The pilot discusses the effects of the 2016 earthquake and the geological features of the region, adding an educational layer. The landings in the high country are perfect for photography and soaking in the vast, unspoiled scenery.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a longer, more adventurous flight with stunning mountain panoramas and geological insights, this tour offers excellent value at $495.84 per person.

6. Marine Biologist Whale Watching Helicopter Tour Kaikoura

This private Marine Biologist whale watch is a three-hour, up to 5-person tour at $4,806.85 per person. It’s the most exclusive, collaborating with a local marine mammal biologist from the Kaikoura Marine Mammal Foundation. The flight departs from Peketā and explores the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, with the biologist sharing in-depth knowledge about whales and marine life.

What makes this tour truly special is the personalized approach—questions are encouraged, and you get to learn directly from a marine expert. It’s ideal for serious wildlife enthusiasts who want a scientific perspective combined with aerial views of whales and crayfish in their natural habitat. The tour includes a close look at whale behavior, and the biologist can answer detailed questions about marine mammals.

Bottom Line: This tour is for those passionate about marine biology and willing to invest in a rare, educational experience. Its high price reflects the personalized, expert-led nature.

How to Choose Your Helicopter Adventure

When deciding between these helicopter tours in Kaikoura, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend airborne. If marine wildlife is your main goal, the 45-minute Ocean Safari and 45-minute whale tour are excellent options. Want a mix of whales and mountains? The 1-hour flight provides a longer, more comprehensive experience. For luxury and a taste of local spirits, the gin tasting is unbeatable.

Those interested in geology or mountain landscapes should check out the Grand Alpine Tour. For the ultimate in marine education, the Marine Biologist Whale Watching Tour offers an unmatched deep dive into marine ecology.

Booking early is highly recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and experience.

Final Thoughts

Kaikoura offers a diverse set of helicopter experiences, from quick whale sightings and mountain landings to private luxury and educational tours. For most travelers, the 45-minute whale safari hits a sweet spot of value and adventure. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast with a larger budget, the Marine Biologist tour offers a truly special experience. Meanwhile, those craving extraordinary mountain views will appreciate the Grand Alpine tour.

No matter which you choose, booking well in advance will help ensure your spot in the New Zealand skies. These tours elevate your Kaikoura visit from memorable to unforgettable, offering perspectives you simply can’t get on the ground.