Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Kaikoura, New Zealand, the Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour beckons adventure seekers to embark on an extraordinary journey through time and nature.
As the blades of the helicopter slice through the air, passengers are transported to a world where majestic mountain ranges and sweeping coastal vistas collide.
But this tour is more than just a scenic joyride; it is a window into the aftermath of a powerful earthquake that forever altered the landscape, leaving behind a tapestry of landslides, rock falls, and fault lines.
With the promise of live commentary from experienced pilots and the opportunity to capture stunning photographs, this helicopter tour offers a tantalizing glimpse into the untamed beauty of Kaikoura and leaves visitors yearning for more.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In Kaikoura.
Good To Know
- The Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour offers stunning views and an unforgettable adventure experience.
- The tour includes live commentary from knowledgeable pilots, providing information about the history, geology, and wildlife of Kaikoura.
- Participants have the opportunity to spot marine wildlife and witness the aftermath of the 2016 earthquake.
- The tour takes place in the summer months, offering more stable weather conditions and clearer, more stunning views, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour offers a thrilling and breathtaking experience. It allows you to explore the stunning Kaikōura Peninsula and soar over the majestic Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. This tour promises to provide you with unparalleled scenic views.
As you skirt the Kaikōura Peninsula, you will be treated to magnificent views. Then, as you climb over 8000 feet into the rugged mountain ranges, you will reach the highest peak outside of the Southern Alps. From there, you will have a stunning view of the East Coast of the South Island and the vast Pacific Ocean.
The knowledgeable pilots on this tour are like flying encyclopedias on the local area. They provide live commentary, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the landscape. This makes the experience even more enriching.
This tour also offers exclusive landings on the Seaward Kaikoura ranges, allowing you to experience the beauty up close. Plus, there are plenty of photo opportunities to capture the surrounding scenery.
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Inclusions
Choose from an array of exciting inclusions that will enhance your Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour experience. Here are four reasons why this tour is a must-do for helicopter enthusiasts and avid photographers:
Live commentary from knowledgeable pilots: Throughout the tour, you’ll receive fascinating insights and information from our pilots, who are flying encyclopedias on the local area. Learn about the history, geology, and wildlife of Kaikoura as you soar through the skies.
Explore the unique Kaikoura Coastline: Witness the rugged beauty of the coastline as you skirt the Kaikoura Peninsula. Marvel at the spectacular views of the East Coast of the South Island and the Pacific Ocean, creating stunning backdrops for your photographs.
Land at an exclusive site on the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges: Climb over 8000 feet into the ranges and stand on the highest mountain outside of the Southern Alps. Experience the vastness of the rugged mountain ranges and capture breathtaking panoramic shots.
Photo opportunities both in and outside of the helicopter: At the end of the tour, you’ll have the chance to capture memorable photos both inside and outside of the helicopter. Don’t miss the chance to document your helicopter experience and take home stunning images of the landscapes, including landslides, rock falls, and fault lines caused by the November 2016 earthquake.
Meeting and Pickup
When joining the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour, you will meet at the designated meeting point located at 16 West End, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand, opposite Cooper Catch fish and chip restaurant, underneath the railway bridge. This pickup location provides easy access for all participants and is conveniently situated in the heart of Kaikōura.
The tour starts at 12:00 PM and ends back at the meeting point. It’s important to note the cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. This gives participants peace of mind and flexibility in case any unforeseen circumstances arise.
Kaikoura Helicopters understands the need for flexibility and give you a seamless experience from start to finish.
Reviews
Customers have raved about the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour, giving it a stellar overall rating of 5.0 based on 1 review. Here is an analysis of the reviews and customer experiences:
Breathtaking Scenery: The tour offers stunning views of the Kaikōura Peninsula, Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, and the East Coast of the South Island. Customers were in awe of the vast, rugged mountain ranges and the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Knowledgeable Pilots: The pilots provided live commentary throughout the tour, sharing their extensive knowledge of the local area. Customers appreciated the in-depth information and described the pilots as flying encyclopedias.
Exclusive Landing Site: The tour includes a landing at an exclusive site on the Seaward Kaikōura ranges, allowing customers to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. This unique experience left a lasting impression on the reviewers.
Earthquake Impact: The tour showcases the aftermath of the November 2016 earthquake, including landslides, rock falls, and fault lines. Customers found this aspect fascinating and praised the opportunity to witness the geological changes caused by the earthquake.
Questions and Help
If you have any questions or need assistance regarding the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour, our team at Viator is here to help.
You can reach out to us through the Viator Help Center, where our knowledgeable staff can provide you with all the information you need to make your experience unforgettable.
Whether you have inquiries about the tour itinerary, meeting point, or cancellation policy, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Plus, if you have any specific questions about the product code 245011P5, our team will be more than happy to address them.
At Viator, we strive to ensure that all our customers have a seamless and enjoyable experience, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need any help or clarification.
Background
The background of the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour provides a fascinating insight into the stunning natural landscapes and unique experiences that await adventurous travelers in Kaikōura, New Zealand. This tour isn’t just about the thrill of flying in a helicopter, but also about immersing oneself in the history and aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck the region in November 2016.
Here are four key points to know about the background of this tour:
History: Kaikōura has a rich history, with Maori settlements dating back over 800 years. The area has long been a place of significance for the Maori people, with its abundance of marine life and majestic mountains.
Earthquake aftermath: The November 2016 earthquake had a significant impact on Kaikōura, causing landslides, rock falls, and fault lines. This tour allows visitors to see firsthand the effects of this natural disaster and gain a deeper understanding of the resilience of the local community.
Stunning natural landscapes: The Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour takes travelers over the Kaikōura Peninsula and into the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, offering breathtaking views of rugged mountain ranges, the East Coast of the South Island, and the Pacific Ocean.
Unique experiences: This tour isn’t just about the views, but also about the immersive experience of landing at an exclusive site in the Seaward Kaikōura ranges. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the unique and rugged Kaikōura coastline and learn from experienced pilots who provide live commentary on the local area.
Directions
As travelers enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and unique experiences of the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour in Kaikōura, New Zealand, they may find themselves wondering how to reach the starting point for this exhilarating adventure. Getting to Kaikoura by helicopter is a thrilling and convenient way to begin the tour. The best time to take the Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is generally more stable and the views are at their most spectacular. To help you plan your journey, here is a table with the directions to the meeting point:
Location | Address |
---|---|
Meeting Point | 16 West End, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand |
Start Time | 12:00 PM |
End Point | Back at the meeting point |
Cancellation Policy | Full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance |
With these directions in hand, travelers can easily reach the starting point and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the beautiful Kaikoura region.
Common Questions
What Is the Duration of the Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour?
The duration of the tour is not specified. Weight restrictions may apply.
Are There Any Weight Restrictions for Passengers on the Helicopter Tour?
There are weight restrictions for passengers on helicopter tours to ensure safety. These restrictions vary depending on the helicopter’s capacity and the specific tour. It is important to check with the tour operator for specific guidelines.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children to Participate in the Tour?
There is a minimum age requirement for children to participate in the tour. Kaikoura Helicopters prioritizes the safety of young passengers and has established guidelines to ensure their well-being throughout the experience.
Can I Bring My Camera or Phone on the Helicopter Tour?
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their cameras or phones on the helicopter tour. They can capture stunning photos from the best spots, including the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges and the picturesque East Coast of the South Island.
Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
Restroom facilities are available during the tour for convenience and accessibility. Passengers can use these facilities as needed, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring the stunning landscapes of Kaikoura.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the Kaikoura Helicopters Grand Alpine Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating and immersive experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
With breathtaking views of the Kaikoura Peninsula, Seaward Kaikoura Ranges, and the highest mountain outside of the Southern Alps, participants are treated to stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the East Coast and Pacific Ocean.
The opportunity to explore the rugged Kaikoura Coastline and witness the aftermath of the 2016 earthquake adds a unique and educational element to this thrilling tour.
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