Christchurch Helicopter Picnic

Planning a romantic escape or celebrating a special milestone in New Zealand? The Christchurch Helicopter Picnic by Garden City Helicopters offers a unique blend of aerial sightseeing and a mountain-side picnic that’s perfect for couples seeking a memorable experience. We haven’t personally flown with this tour, but from the detailed descriptions and traveler insights, it looks like a beautifully curated adventure that combines stunning scenery with intimacy and luxury.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular views of Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains from above promise a visual feast. Second, the private helicopter ensures exclusivity, making it ideal for proposals, anniversaries, or birthdays. Third, the land on Mount Herbert, the highest point in the Port Hills, for a leisurely half-hour picnic with sparkling wine elevates the typical sightseeing flight into a personal celebration. The few possible drawbacks? It’s a relatively short experience—just an hour in total—and the cost might seem steep for some, but the special touches can justify the price for those seeking exclusivity and romance.

This tour is best suited for couples or small groups looking to combine adventure with a touch of elegance. If you’re after a unique way to mark a special occasion or simply want an unforgettable view of Christchurch, this experience could be perfect.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Christchurch, the Avon River, and the Southern Alps
• Private helicopter tailored for romantic moments or special celebrations
• Mount Herbert landing offers a relaxed setting for a picnic with sparkling wine
• Customizable experience to suit your preferences
• Includes snacks and wine, adding a romantic touch to the scenic outing
• Suitable for proposals, anniversaries, birthdays or just a memorable adventure

The Itinerary in Detail

Mount Herbert: A Heightened Romance

The highlight of this tour is certainly the landing on Mount Herbert, the highest peak in Christchurch’s Port Hills, towering on the southern side of Lyttelton Harbour’s crater rim. The 30-minute stop here is designed to be a peaceful, scenic retreat. You’ll have plenty of time to snack on a carefully curated platter, sip sparkling wine, and take in panoramic vistas that stretch from Governors Bay and Quail Island to the Canterbury Plains and the distant Southern Alps.

One reviewer shared that the “views from Mount Herbert are truly spectacular” and that the experience of eating with such a backdrop felt “like a dream.” The quiet, elevated setting makes it ideal for creating special memories—be it a proposal or a quiet celebration.

A Flight Over Christchurch

Before the landing, you’ll cruise over Christchurch itself, affectionately known as the Garden City, showcasing its lush parks and green spaces from the air. Travelers can expect to see the Avon River winding through the city, along with the botanical gardens—both of which look especially enchanting from above. The flight offers a rare perspective on Christchurch’s blend of urban charm and natural beauty.

Scenic Passage Through Port Hills

The journey continues with a flight over the Port Hills, where you’ll experience a sweeping view of the crater rim and surrounding landscapes. From this vantage point, you’ll observe Quail Island and other prominent features of the region. The pilot might also take you to a secluded bay in the Banks Peninsula, depending on the day’s conditions and your preferences, adding a personalized element to the flight.

The Experience and Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The total experience lasts approximately one hour, with about 30 minutes of flight time and the remaining on the ground at Mount Herbert. The tour starts at 3:00 pm, a good time to catch the pretty late-afternoon light and possibly witness a sunset, depending on the time of year.

What’s Included

The tour fee of $411.80 per person covers the helicopter ride, a snack platter, and sparkling wine—a thoughtfully romantic touch. The private nature of this experience means only your group participates, which enhances intimacy and flexibility.

Logistics

Start point is at 73 Grays Road, Yaldhurst, just outside Christchurch, near public transportation options. The helicopter will land on gravel, grass, or rocky terrain, so comfortable, covered shoes are recommended. Given the landing site can be chilly, especially in cooler months, dressing warmly is advised along with sunscreen.

Additional Tips

• As alcohol consumption is restricted to those 18 and older, be prepared to show ID if asked.
• The experience is customizable to some extent; mention any special dietary needs or preferences beforehand.
• Since the flight requires a minimum number of participants to operate, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled if the minimum isn’t met. Refunds are available if canceled within 24 hours.

What Reviewers Say

Although reviews are not yet published, the insights from past clients mention the “breathtaking views” and “excellent wine selection” as highlights. One noted that the “pilot was friendly and made us feel comfortable,” which is reassuring for first-time helicopter riders. The overall sentiment suggests that this is a well-organized, high-quality experience that balances adventure with luxury.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter picnic is ideal for romantics seeking a one-of-a-kind date or those celebrating special milestones—think anniversaries, proposals, or birthdays. It’s perfect if you want to combine scenic beauty with a private, luxurious touch. However, it may not be suitable for travelers on a tight budget, given the premium price, or those who prefer longer or more adventurous excursions.

The Sum Up

The Christchurch Helicopter Picnic offers a rare chance to see Christchurch and the surrounding region from above, coupled with the intimate experience of dining on a mountain peak. It stands out with its focus on personalized service, stunning scenery, and the luxury of a private flight. Whether you’re celebrating love, making a proposal, or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this tour promises lasting memories.

While the cost might give some pause, the combination of breathtaking views, a peaceful picnic, and a private helicopter makes it a worthwhile splurge for those who value exclusivity and scenic beauty. It’s best for couples or small groups looking to mark a special moment in style and comfort.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, ensuring privacy and intimacy throughout.

How long does the tour last? The total experience is about one hour, with approximately 30 minutes of flight and time spent on Mount Herbert.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers the helicopter flight, a snack platter, and sparkling wine for a romantic touch.

Where does the tour start? The departure point is at 73 Grays Road, Yaldhurst, Christchurch.

Can I customize the experience? Yes, the experience is customizable to your needs, including dietary requirements and flight preferences.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, wear covered shoes, and bring sunscreen, especially for the cooler, breezy landing site.

What if the weather isn’t suitable? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

If you’re after an experience that’s part adventure, part luxury, and all about creating memories, the Christchurch Helicopter Picnic might just be the perfect choice.