Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour

Introduction

Imagine soaring above a rugged, snow-capped mountain range, the crisp air filling your lungs as you gaze down at one of New Zealand’s most stunning glacier-filled valleys. That’s precisely what the Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour offers—a unique blend of adrenaline, awe-inspiring scenery, and a touch of luxury with a gourmet picnic.

This experience has garnered praise for its breathtaking views of Mt Earnslaw, the delicious locally made picnic, and the aerial vistas over the Whakatipu basin. We particularly love the opportunity to get close to a hanging glacier, the quality of the meal, and the chance for some unforgettable photos.

That said, a possible consideration is the relatively short duration—just 1.5 hours—which might leave some wanting more time to soak it all in. This tour is ideal for those seeking an adventurous and scenic day out—perfect for romantic getaways, special celebrations, or anyone eager to see one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes from above.

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Good To Know

• Stunning views of Mt Earnslaw Glacier and the surrounding waterfalls.
• Exclusive helicopter access to the Earnslaw Burn valley.
• A gourmet picnic served beneath a hanging glacier, with local wines.
• Flexible booking options including free cancellation and pay later.
• Live English-speaking guides ensure an informative experience.
• Wheelchair accessible for greater inclusivity.

The Experience in Detail

The Scenic Flight

The journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight operated by Heliworks Queenstown, a provider rated 4.8 out of 5 for quality and service. The helicopter ride lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a manageable yet impactful adventure.

From the moment you lift off, the views are mesmerizing. The helicopter heads toward the Earnslaw Burn, a location famous for its dramatic waterfalls, hanging glaciers, and rugged mountain terrain. Reviewers often mention the crisp, fresh mountain air and the unparalleled clarity of the views, which truly make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

The Earnslaw Burn and the Hanging Glacier

Once in the burn, you’ll hover above this rugged valley that has featured in films like Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The hanging glacier above you is an impressive spectacle—its icy majesty contrasting sharply with the grey rock and lush greenery below.

Guests consistently comment on the “dazzling” glacier and the “serene waterfalls” that seem to tumble endlessly down the mountainsides. Even in winter, the location remains stunning, although the waterfalls are less vigorous due to snow coverage. The extra snow only enhances the winter landscape, creating a fairytale scene.

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The Gourmet Picnic

After soaking in the views, the helicopter lands at a designated spot for a delicious locally made picnic. The setup is quite special—you’re surrounded by mountain peaks and the sound of waterfalls while enjoying a meal that feels both luxurious and authentic.

Guests have praised the quality of the food, describing it as generous and thoughtfully prepared. The picnic includes local wines, which elevate the experience—perfect for a romantic outing or celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary. The ample time to explore the area, run around, and take photos adds a relaxed vibe to the adventure.

The Return Flight and Basin Views

As the helicopter departs from the picnic spot, you’ll get sweeping aerial views over the Whakatipu basin, with its shimmering lake and surrounding mountains. This section offers a fantastic opportunity to capture panoramic shots and appreciate the scale of the landscape.

Reviewers mention that the flight back feels just as spectacular as the outbound trip, with the mountains and waterfalls providing a constant visual feast. The small group size and professional guides help keep the experience intimate and informative.

Practical Details and Tips

How to Book and Costs

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, adding flexibility for travelers. You can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan without immediate financial commitment.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking around and exploring.
• Warm clothing, especially in cooler months or winter, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
• A camera to capture the stunning scenery, waterfalls, and glacier.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus for inclusivity. Passengers are asked to provide their weights at booking for safety and aircraft balance reasons—an important detail to note for planning.

The Best Time to Go

While the scenery is impressive year-round, spring and summer (September to March) feature more waterfalls in full flow. Winter months (June to August) tend to have less water but more snow coverage, adding a different charm to the landscape.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At approximately 1.5 hours, this helicopter adventure packs a lot of visual punch—getting you close to glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks that are otherwise inaccessible. The inclusion of a luxurious picnic with local wines transforms it from a simple sightseeing flight into a memorable, multi-sensory experience.

Compared to other scenic options like fly-cruise combinations or jet boat rides, this tour provides a more personalized, intimate encounter with one of New Zealand’s most iconic valleys. The guided commentary enriches your understanding of the landscape’s geological and cultural significance.

Who Is It Best Suited For?

This is an ideal experience for romantics, adventure lovers, and nature enthusiasts. It’s perfect for celebrating special milestones, such as anniversaries or honeymoons, thanks to its combination of luxury and adventure. It also caters well to those wanting a unique, awe-inspiring perspective on the South Island’s rugged beauty.

Final Thoughts

The Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour offers a compelling mix of spectacular scenery, gourmet food, and aerial adventure. It’s a chance to feel like you’re on top of the world, surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most iconic sights, all in a relatively short timeframe.

The well-rated operator, thoughtful inclusions, and focus on in-flight comfort make this a high-value addition to anyone’s South Island itinerary. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour delivers a luxurious and breathtaking experience you’ll remember for years.

For those who crave up-close mountain majesty with a touch of fine dining, this helicopter trip is hard to beat. Just remember to bring your camera and a warm layer—you’ll want to savor every moment of this scenic flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including the flight, landing, picnic, and return.

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, it is. Winter offers a different kind of beauty with extra snow coverage, though waterfalls are less vigorous. The tour still operates and provides stunning views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the experience.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.

What is included in the picnic?
A locally made picnic with quality food and local wines, set against a spectacular mountain backdrop.

To sum it up, the Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and outstanding scenery. It’s suitable for anyone looking to tick off a bucket-list experience while enjoying a touch of elegance in one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a memorable day in nature, this tour is sure to deliver extraordinary memories.

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