Helicopter Tours in Wellington
New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, is a picturesque city on the North Island’s southern shore. Sitting on Cook Strait that runs between the country’s two islands, Wellington’s central location is a perfect starting point to explore the area. A helicopter tour in Wellington encompasses city, mountain and ocean views that make this part of New Zealand so attractive.
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New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, is a picturesque city on the North Island’s southern shore. Sitting on Cook Strait that runs between the country’s two islands, Wellington’s central location is a perfect starting point to explore the area.
A helicopter tour in Wellington encompasses city, mountain and ocean views that make this part of New Zealand so attractive.
Here's all you need to know about helicopter tours, one of the outdoor activities in Wellington with the best scenery.
What are the best helicopter tours in Wellington?
Views of the charming city and its wild surroundings await you on a helicopter tour of Wellington.
City and harbor helicopter tours
City and harbor tours provide a glimpse of urban Wellington. Take in its architecture and its geography, from government and cultural buildings to the mountains and ocean. There are packages with choices of which Wellington highlights you’d like to see.
Lunch helicopter tours
Luxurious lunch tours by helicopter in Wellington whisk you to idyllic destinations for a multi-course meal. Enjoy aerial views of the city as you fly to the Bay of Many Coves or the Orongorongo Valley. Sit down to a three- to five-course lunch at a resort, an estate or a renowned restaurant.
How much do helicopter tours in Wellington cost?
- City and harbor helicopter tours cost from US$80 per person to US$150 per person, depending on the duration of the flight.
- Lunch helicopter tours cost from US$420 per person to US$550 per person, depending on the distance of the flight and number of courses served.
Which places are seen with a helicopter tour in Wellington?
City sites
The capital of New Zealand features hilly vistas, glistening shorelines and distinctive architecture. See the Parliament Buildings, the Te Papa Museum, Westpac Stadium and the cable car that takes visitors to a perch 120 meters above the city.
Pencarrow Coast
Across Days Bay from Wellington is a stretch of hilly coastline bordered by vast parkland. Pencarrow Head Lighthouses protects this promontory, and the brilliant white structure attracts the eye day and night. Check the rocky shores for Pencarrow’s resident seal population.
North Island mountains
Wellington is blessed with many summits near town. Enjoy the green contours of Mt Victoria, Climie and Kaukau in the foothills and the dramatic Mitre and McGregor Peaks in the distance. On a clear day, you may see hints of the Southern Alps on the South Island.
Cook Strait
The strait between New Zealand’s North and South Islands is dotted with islands and populated by cetaceans. The natural beauty of this waterway enriches the cityscape. Marvel at the rocky land on each side of the strait and the blue-green waves that separate the two parts of New Zealand.
What is included?
Your helicopter tour includes guided commentary accessible through noise-canceling headphones during your flight. Lunch tours also serve a locally-sourced meal at a resort or agricultural estate.
Where does it start?
Helicopter tours start at Queen’s Wharf in central Wellington.
How long do helicopter tours in Wellington last?
City and harbor tours last from 10 to 15 minutes. Lunch tours are 3 hours long.
When is the best time for a helicopter tour in Wellington?
Wellington’s warmest months are November through April. Extremely hot or cold temperatures are not common in Wellington at any time of year. If you want to avoid crowds, the shoulder tourist season is from March to May.
Are there any combo available with helicopter tours in Wellington?
Kapiti Coast tour
Wellington’s surroundings teem with history, culture and wildlife. A helicopter tour along the Kapiti Coast affords unrivaled mountain, sea and city views as you make your way to three diverse attractions.
Enjoy a three-course lunch and feed birds at Nga Manu Nature Preserve. Then, head toward Paekakariki to Camp McKay, a World War II US Marine Corps Base. Finish your exploration of the area at Southwards Car Museum, one of the world’s largest private car collections before flying a different return route to Wellington.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Helicopter tours in Wellington require good weather. In the case of dangerous or unfavorable conditions, tour providers will offer a full refund or a chance to reschedule.
Is it safe?
Yes, helicopter tours in Wellington are safe, as they provide an expert pilot, safety equipment and a safety briefing. These excursions are not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.
Are children allowed?
Helicopter tours in Wellington have no age limit, as long as children travel with an accompanying adult. Most tours allow children aged 3 (sometimes 5 years old) and below to sit on an adult's lap and travel free of charge.
Which other outdoor activities can be done in Wellington?
Travel tips
- If you experience motion sickness, take medication one hour before your flight.
- For lunch tours, let your provider know if you have dietary restrictions 24 hours before your excursion.
- Bring a well-charged smartphone to access your mobile ticket and to capture the views.