Scenic Helicopter Flight, Mountain Landing & Wine Tour Queenstown

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Experience Queenstown’s vineyards from above with a scenic helicopter tour, mountain landing, and wine tastings at top wineries, all in one unforgettable day.

Introduction

Queenstown’s reputation as New Zealand’s adventure capital often overshadows its equally impressive wine scene. The Scenic Helicopter Flight, Mountain Landing & Wine Tour from Altitude Tours offers a refreshing blend of aerial views, mountain serenity, and top-tier wine tasting — all in one comfortably paced 6-hour experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the spectacular helicopter ride offers panoramic vistas of the vineyards and surrounding mountains that are impossible to appreciate from the ground. Second, the mountain landing on a scenic peak with a glass of sparkling wine in hand creates a truly memorable moment. Lastly, the four winery visits, including a tour of New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave, promise an immersive wine adventure with rich stories and tasting highlights.

One consideration? The tour is quite activity-packed, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of physical comfort and an appreciation for both scenic beauty and wine. This experience particularly appeals to travelers who love distinctive views combined with tasting some of New Zealand’s best wines — especially Pinot Noir lovers. If you’re after a luxurious, half-day adventure that combines sightseeing, gourmet wine, and a bit of thrill, this tour could be just your cup of (sparkling) tea.

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Key Points

Stunning aerial views of the Gibbston wine region from a helicopter
Exclusive mountain landing with a glass of bubbles for a memorable photo op
Comprehensive wine tastings across four renowned wineries with guided tours
Access to New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave for an underground wine experience
Flexible lunch options at Kinross Winery, allowing personal choice and budget control
All-inclusive transport and pickup in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle
Ideal for those wanting a luxe mix of adventure, scenery, and wine

The Itinerary Breakdown

Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Queenstown and Gibbston

The tour kicks off with a 30 to 40-minute helicopter ride. From your Queenstown accommodation, you’ll be whisked away in a helicopter that offers breathtaking views of the vine-covered landscape below. This isn’t just a quick flight; it’s a chance to see the wine region from a perspective that most visitors never experience. The highlight? Landing on a mountain peak for a sparkling wine toast — a moment that turns sightseeing into a celebration.

Travelers have noted that the helicopter flight provides fantastic panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. One reviewer remarked, “The views from the helicopter were well worth the price, and the mountain landing made it a truly special experience.” The aerial aspect of this tour really elevates the overall experience, making it feel more like a luxury adventure than just a standard wine tour.

Gibbston Valley Winery: A Historic Icon

Your first winery stop is Gibbston Valley — one of the founding wineries of the region. Here, a guided tour takes you beneath the winery to explore New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This subterranean space is both fascinating and atmospheric, providing a glimpse into the scale and dedication behind New Zealand’s wine production.

Expect to taste some world-famous wines, including their signature Pinot Noir, which many visitors praise for its quality and complexity. The guided tour offers insights into the winemaking process, and the underground setting adds a layer of authenticity. One guest mentioned, “Walking through the cave and then tasting the wines in such a unique setting was a highlight.”

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Kinross Winery: A Tasting and Lunch Stop

Next, the tour heads to Kinross Winery, where a varied tasting experience awaits. Here, the host showcases wines from multiple labels, including smaller boutique producers, offering a broader perspective on the region’s diversity. The delicious wine selection combined with the stories behind each label makes this stop both educational and enjoyable.

After the tastings, you’ll have about an hour and a half to enjoy lunch. Kinross offers a varied menu with pizzas, small bites, and mains — all ordered and paid for directly on the day. This flexibility is appreciated by many, as it allows you to choose what best suits your taste and budget.

Mt Rosa Wines: Boutique Experience

Your journey continues at Mt Rosa Wines, a small, owner-operated winery perched just below Nevis Bluff. The scenic location and newly built cellar door create an elegant backdrop for tasting their single-label wines. The host will guide you through varieties, and many mention the notable mulled wine as a customer favorite, perfect for adding a cozy touch to the day.

Travelers have appreciated the intimate setting here, noting that “Mt Rosa felt more personal and relaxed, and the wines were outstanding.” The boutique nature of this stop allows for a more curated tasting experience, ideal for those wanting to delve deeper into smaller producers’ craftsmanship.

The Church Cellar Door and Mt Edward Wines

The final stop is at The Church Tasting Room, a picturesque converted church with sweeping grounds. This venue is the tasting room for Mt Edward Wines, a family-run operation. Here, you’ll sample a selection of Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chardonnay, and Chenin from small vineyard plots.

Guests have enjoyed the serene atmosphere and the chance to sample limited-batch wines from dedicated growers. One review described it as “a peaceful and scenic way to end the day, with wines that truly showcase the region’s potential.”

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Tour Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with a maximum of 14 travelers. This relatively small group ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and engage with guides.

Transportation and Pick-up

Guests are picked up from their Queenstown accommodations in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, providing comfort and style from start to finish. The convenience of hotel pickup means you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking, especially after a few tastings.

Cost and Value

At $455.21 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price: scenic flights, multiple winery visits, guided cave tour, and VIP transport. While lunch isn’t included, the flexibility to choose your own meal at Kinross allows you to tailor the experience to your preferences and budget.

What’s Not Included

Lunch at Kinross is at your expense, giving you the freedom to select from their menu, whether you prefer a quick snack or a full meal. This might seem like a minor extra, but it allows for personal choice and flexibility.

Weather and Cancellation

Good weather is essential for this experience, especially for the helicopter ride. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour is also refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

While no official ratings are available yet, previous comments reveal a high regard for guides and staff, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Reviewers mention that guides like “the wine-certified guide” are very engaging, making complex wine stories accessible and interesting. The helicopter pilot also received praise for their professionalism and the spectacular views provided during the flight.

Some guests appreciated the balance of activities, noting that the tour isn’t rushed and gives ample time to relax and enjoy each stop. The scenic mountain landing and underground cave tour are frequently highlighted as standout moments that make this tour feel truly special.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous wine lovers who want a taste of everything—spectacular scenery, boutique wines, and a touch of luxury. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and refined tasting in a small-group setting. Be prepared for a full, engaging day, and bring your camera to capture the incredible views and moments.

This tour isn’t suitable for children or those under 18, due to alcohol regulations. It’s also best suited for travelers comfortable with a moderate pace of activity as it includes walking and some time on your feet.

The Sum Up

The Queenstown Helicopter Wine Tour combines the thrill of aerial sightseeing with the sophistication of wine tasting, all set amidst some of New Zealand’s most scenic landscapes. The mountain landing with a bubbly creates a memorable highlight, while the four carefully curated winery visits deepen your appreciation for the region’s viticulture.

This experience offers excellent value for those wanting a luxurious, multi-sensory day out without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas ensure that every moment is both enjoyable and enriching. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to see Queenstown from a new perspective, this tour is tailored to provide an unforgettable day.

For travelers craving a mix of adventure, elegance, and authentic local flavors, this helicopter wine tour hits the right notes. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to add a touch of thrill and sophistication to their Queenstown trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes convenient hotel pickup from your Queenstown accommodation, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The helicopter flight lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes, offering ample time to enjoy the incredible views of the vineyards and mountains.

Can I choose my lunch at Kinross Winery?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, which allows you to order directly at Kinross from their menu, giving you flexibility based on your taste and budget.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18 years old. The tour isn’t suitable for children under this age.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the helicopter flight, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While wine tastings are a core part of the tour, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenery, guided cave tour, and the mountain landing, but keep in mind that the tasting experiences are designed primarily for wine enthusiasts.

How is the transport arranged?
Guests are transported in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Experience Queenstown from a new perspective—scenic, sophisticated, and thoroughly enjoyable. This tour offers a delightful mix of adventure and taste, perfect for creating memories in New Zealand’s renowned wine country.