Kaikoura’s helicopter tours showcase New Zealand’s stunning coastline where mountains dramatically meet the sea. Operating daily (weather permitting), these flights range from 20-minute scenic hops to comprehensive 3-hour excursions. The best tours include the Marine Wildlife Experience, which pairs aerial whale watching with expert commentary, and the Mountain Landing Tour, offering pristine alpine views and photo opportunities from remote peaks. For adventurous travelers, the Pilot Experience lets you take the controls alongside a certified instructor – a rare treat in the tourism industry. Budget-conscious visitors should consider the basic Coastal Explorer flight, delivering excellent value with mountain and ocean views in just 30 minutes. Let’s explore the top helicopter tours in Kaikoura…
Good To Know
- Kaikoura’s deep-sea canyon offers a one-hour luxury helicopter flight with views of Huttons Shearwater bird colonies and marine mammals.
- Thrill seekers can pilot a helicopter with a licensed instructor during a private trial flight, earning a completion certificate.
- Combine a helicopter tour with a gin tasting experience at the Mt Fyffe Distillery for a unique aerial and local spirits experience.
- The Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour provides a 90-minute aerial adventure over the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges, observing the effects of the 2016 earthquake.
- The Marine Biologist Helicopter Tour offers a 5-person excursion led by an expert, including a crayfish lunch and wheelchair accessibility.
Short Kaikōura Helicopter Tour – Kaikoura
What’s the Short Kaikōura Helicopter Tour – Kaikoura?
It’s a one-hour luxury helicopter flight that offers breathtaking views over Kaikoura’s deep-sea canyon and Huttons Shearwater bird colonies. Passengers can spot sperm whales and other marine mammals from the air, and there’s a potential landing in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges for spectacular vistas.
The knowledgeable pilots provide live commentary on the local wildlife and geography. With a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, this tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Passengers are weighed before departure, and it’s recommended to wear covered shoes, bring a warm jacket, camera, and any necessary medication.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Short Kaikōura Helicopter Tour – Kaikoura Review
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Private Helicopter Trial Flight in Kaikōura
The Private Helicopter Trial Flight in Kaikōura offers adventurous travelers a thrilling chance to pilot a helicopter under the guidance of a licensed instructor.
Priced from $328.94 per person, this 5-star rated experience takes place in the stunning coastal town of Kaikōura, New Zealand.
Participants will be equipped with a headset for clear communication and receive professional assistance with take-off, hovering, and landing.
Upon completion, they’ll receive a certificate commemorating their achievement.
With pickup and drop-off at a centrally located meeting point, this private tour is perfect for those seeking an unforgettable aerial adventure.
Booking policies allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the flight, providing added flexibility.
Read our full review: Private Helicopter Trial Flight in Kaikōura Review
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Helicopter Tour With Mt Fyffe Distillery
This Helicopter Gin Tasting Tour in Kaikoura, New Zealand offers a unique and exclusive aerial experience for adventurous adults.
On this private tour, you’ll soar over the stunning Kaikoura landscape before landing at the Mt Fyffe Distillery for a gin tasting and snacks.
The 2-hour experience includes a complimentary 375ml bottle of gin to take home.
The tour departs and returns to the meeting point at 623 State Highway 1, and is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers.
At $2,272.68 per person, this tour provides a luxurious and memorable way to explore Kaikoura from the sky while indulging in local spirits.
Read our full review: Helicopter Tour With Mt Fyffe Distillery Review
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Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour
Soar over the stunning Kaikoura landscape on the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour, a 90-minute aerial adventure that takes you high into the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges.
Skirting the Kaikoura Peninsula, you’ll ascend over 8000 feet, standing atop the highest mountain outside the Southern Alps with breathtaking views of the East Coast and Pacific Ocean.
Along the way, you’ll witness the dramatic effects of the 2016 earthquake, including landslides, rock falls, and fault lines.
Enjoy live commentary from knowledgeable pilots and exclusive access to a landing site in the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges, with ample photo opportunities both inside and outside the helicopter.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, this tour can accommodate up to 6 travelers.
Read our full review: Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour Review
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Marine Biologist Helicopter Tour: Whales and Cray Tails
Kaikoura’s Marine Biologist Helicopter Tour: Whales and Cray Tails offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s incredible marine life from the air.
Led by renowned marine biologist Dr. Krista Van Der Linde, this 5-person tour starts at 11:00 am and costs $4,545.35 per person.
Passengers will be outfitted with life jackets and headsets, and a delectable crayfish lunch is included.
The tour departs from and returns to the meeting point at 617 State Highway 1, with shuttle service available upon request.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as service animals, make this tour inclusive.
With a 5.0 rating from one review, this is an unforgettable opportunity to explore Kaikoura’s marine wonders from a unique aerial perspective.
Read our full review: Marine Biologist Helicopter Tour: Whales and Cray Tails Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year for Helicopter Tours?
The best time for helicopter tours depends on the traveler’s interests. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Ultimately, the optimal time reflects each visitor’s desired experiences and preferences.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can typically bring their own food and drinks on helicopter tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommend against it to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for the Flights?
Most helicopter tour operators have age and weight restrictions to ensure the safety of passengers. Typically, there are minimum age requirements and maximum weight limits. Passengers should check with the specific tour company for their policies before booking.
How Far in Advance Should I Book My Helicopter Tour?
To get the best deal and availability, it’s recommended to book helicopter tours well in advance, typically 2-3 weeks prior to the desired date. This allows for flexibility in scheduling and ensures the preferred tour is secured.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, many helicopter tour companies allow customers to customize the itinerary based on their preferences. This provides a personalized experience and allows them to focus on the sights and activities they’re most interested in.
The Sum Up
Kaikoura offers a range of thrilling helicopter tours that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty. From short scenic flights to more comprehensive experiences that include distilleries and wildlife encounters, visitors can choose the adventure that best suits their interests and budget. Whether it’s a quick sightseeing trip or a personalized tour, these helicopter excursions provide an unparalleled perspective of Kaikoura’s breathtaking landscapes.