Queenstown: Helicopter Flight and Gin Tasting Tour

This Queenstown tour blends the thrill of a scenic helicopter flight with the laid-back enjoyment of tasting some of New Zealand’s finest locally-made spirits. While we haven’t personally strapped in, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this experience offers a fantastic mix of adventure, education, and relaxation — perfect for those wanting to see Queenstown from a new perspective and discover its craft spirits scene.

What makes this tour special? First, the helicopter flight to a mountaintop delivers jaw-dropping views that you’ll cherish long after the flight. Second, the gin tastings at three carefully curated locations showcase award-winning local products. Third, the expert guides and distillery staff add layers of insight and fun that elevate the whole experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the price of $450 per person — while it offers a lot, it’s definitely an investment. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic vistas, enjoy tasting experiences, and are comfortable with small group tours. If you’re after a unique, memorable day in Queenstown that combines scenery with spirits, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

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Key Points

Breathtaking views from a helicopter landing on a mountain top
Three unique gin and spirits tastings with expert guides
Educational insight into the distillation process at Cardrona Distillery
Shared grazing platters and cocktails enhance tasting experiences
Flexible spirit options beyond gin, including vodka and whiskey
Small group size ensures personalized attention and fun

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The Perfect Blend of Scenic Adventure and Spirit Sampling

This tour offers a rare combination: a scenic helicopter flight and the chance to taste some of New Zealand’s best gins. Starting with a 15-minute helicopter ride, you’ll soar over Queenstown’s stunning landscapes before landing atop a mountain. Here, you get roughly 25 minutes to enjoy the surroundings and your special gin tasting while taking in sweeping views of the region. It’s an experience designed to impress both your camera and your palate.

What sets this apart from typical sightseeing or distillery tours is the mountain landing — a truly unique opportunity to stand on a mountaintop with a drink in hand. The helicopter will shut down during this time, allowing you to soak in the scenery, chat with your guide, and enjoy the gin served with a cocktail to kick off the tasting journey.

Following the mountain stop, you’ll travel by road to Cardrona Valley, Arrowtown, and Arthurs Point, each offering a different vibe and atmosphere. Along the way, your guides will sprinkle in stories about the areas, making the journey both scenic and enriching.

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Inside the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Helicopter Flight and Mountain Landing

When you’re picked up from your Queenstown accommodation, the first highlight is the scenic helicopter flight. It’s a quick 15-minute jaunt, so you won’t be spending ages in the air, but the views are guaranteed to be memorable. Expect panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys, which are truly a photographer’s dream.

Landing on the mountain top is the tour’s pièce de résistance. It’s a rare chance to stand on a high-altitude vantage point, with a gorgeous backdrop of Queenstown and the Southern Alps. During this 25-minute stop, you’ll taste a specially selected gin and enjoy the tranquility of your high-altitude perch.

The Distillery and Tasting Rooms

Next, the tour continues with visits to three different locations, each offering a distinctive tasting experience. You’ll start with a gin and tonic at the first tasting spot, then move on to shared platters at two other locations. The Cardrona Distillery is a highlight, offering a guided tour where you’ll learn about the distillation process and the craftsmanship behind their award-winning spirits.

Guests have noted the knowledgeable guides who share stories about the distillation process, adding context that elevates the tasting beyond just sipping. The opportunity to try other spirits like vodka, whiskey, and wine makes it a flexible experience for those wanting variety.

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Food and Drinks

Food is thoughtfully included via shared grazing platters at two of the locations, which help balance out the alcohol and give you a chance to mingle. While extra drinks and cocktails aren’t included, the various tastings, plus the gin cocktails served upon arrival, make for a satisfying flavor journey.

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The Small Group Experience

Limited to 14 participants, the tour feels intimate, allowing for personalized interactions with guides and staff. Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides, like those who entertain and educate throughout the day, making the experience not just about tasting, but also about learning.

Value for Money: Does It Make Sense?

At $450 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with value. You’re paying for a scenic helicopter ride, multiple tastings, guided distillery tours, and comfortable transport in a Mercedes van with Wi-Fi. The inclusion of grazing food and the unique experience of a mountain landing justifies the cost for those seeking something special.

Some reviews mention this as great value for money, especially considering the quality of the gin and the breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure and education without worrying about the logistics or transportation.

How the Experience Comes Together

The tour’s strength lies in its carefully curated stops — each offering something unique, from the mountaintop gin tasting to the distillery insights. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the journey informative and fun, and the small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd.

Expect to feel a sense of exclusivity, especially during the mountain landing, where the limited time and stunning views create a memorable highlight. The mixture of scenic vistas, authentic spirits, and engaging storytelling ensures this tour appeals to a broad range of travelers, whether you’re a gin enthusiast, a scenery lover, or simply after a day full of unique experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous spirits who aren’t afraid of a quick helicopter ride and enjoy tasting local products. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for an unforgettable day in Queenstown. If you’re interested in learning about spirits and want a more interactive experience than just visiting a distillery, this combines education and entertainment well.

If you’re after value for money, a small-group vibe, and spectacular views with a side of spirits, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should note the helicopter component and limited accessibility.

The Sum Up

This Queenstown helicopter and gin tasting tour is a thoughtfully crafted experience that combines spectacular scenery, local craftsmanship, and personalized guides. It’s a high-value option for those wanting to see Queenstown from above and taste New Zealand’s innovative spirits, all in one day.

The mountain landing and small-group format make it feel exclusive, while the educational aspect at the distillery adds depth to the tasting. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate adventure with a sophisticated touch and want lasting memories of Queenstown’s natural beauty and vibrant craft scene.

While it demands a bit of a budget, the combination of scenery, learning, and authentic local flavors makes it a worthwhile splurge for a special day out. Perfect for those who want a fun, memorable, and scenic experience that’s truly one of a kind.

FAQ

Is the helicopter ride weather-dependent?
Yes, if weather conditions cancel the helicopter, the tour provider will contact you to switch to van transport, ensuring you still get the full experience.

How long does the entire tour last?
The entire experience runs about 6 hours, including pickup, the helicopter ride, tastings, and transport between spots.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian and gluten-free options can be accommodated, and the tour team will do their best to meet other dietary needs.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for identification. It’s also wise to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing since some parts of the tour are outdoors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the helicopter component and outdoor activities.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the helicopter flight, mountain gin tasting, guided distillery tour, three tastings at different locations, shared grazing food, and transport in a luxury Mercedes van with Wi-Fi.

Can I try spirits other than gin?
Yes, you’re welcome to try other spirits like vodka and whiskey at the tastings, offering a broader experience of New Zealand’s spirits scene.

How many people are in each group?
Tours are limited to 14 participants, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for engaging with guides and fellow travelers.