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Helicopter Tours

From Queenstown: 4-Hour Milford Sound Helicopter Tour and Cruise

Helicopter flying over cloud-covered fiords in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Cruise boat near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Couple by helicopter at Queenstown viewpoint overlooking mountains and river valley.
Four people beside a red and white helicopter on a snowy peak in Milford Sound.

Duration

4 hr

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

    • Take off from Queenstown on a helicopter flight above glacier-carved alpine valleys, pristine lakes, and dramatic mountain peaks en route to Milford Sound.

    • Touch down in Milford Sound and board a scenic boat cruise along its 16 km length, where sheer cliffs, lush rainforest, and Mitre Peak rise majestically from the water.

    • Spot New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks, playful dolphins, and native birdlife, all brought to life by engaging commentary from your cruise hosts, creating immersive storytelling on the water.

    • Return to the skies for a helicopter ascent, soaring across the Southern Alps while reflecting on your time in the fiord, a round-trip flight that frames the world-famous sound from both air and sea.

    • Experience seamless comfort and adventure, with flights, cruise, commentary, and refreshments combined into a single effortless 4-hour journey that maximizes every moment in Fiordland.

    • 4-hour Milford Sound aerial and cruise tour from Queenstown

    • 2-hour cruise in Milford Sound

    • Return scenic helicopter flight between Queenstown and Milford Sound

    • Guaranteed window seat in a modern Airbus helicopter

    • Glacier or alpine snow landing for photos

    • Scenic cruise through Milford Sound waterfalls & cliffs

    • Live commentary from both pilot-guide and cruise host

    • Complimentary tea and coffee served during your cruise

    • Picnic lunch onboard the cruise (available to purchase onsite)
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • Combine Alpine and fiord beauty in one: soar high, land on snow, then glide through Milford Sound’s majestic cliffs.

    Getting started

    Begin at Queenstown’s heli-base, where you'll receive a warm welcome and a clear safety briefing. Climb aboard a luxurious Airbus H125 “goldfish-bowl” helicopter, with panoramic views inviting you to leave the road behind and embrace Fiordland’s unfolding wonder.

    What to expect

    This is more than a cruise—it’s a full-circle adventure. Fly across snow-capped peaks and sculpted valleys, then land atop a glacier or snow ridge to breathe icy air and snapshot vistas few ever see. Touch down in Milford Sound for a guided walk amid towering cliffs and iconic waterfalls. Each moment—from rotor lift to water’s edge—is narrated by your expert pilot. Flexible scheduling ensures comfort, safety, and a flight only when conditions are clear.

    Features
    • Scenic flying over Fiordland’s finest: Take off from Queenstown and fly over alpine valleys and the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps. See waterfalls, native beech forests, and glacier-carved landscapes on your way to the coast.

    • Milford Sound by water: Land in Milford Sound and board a purpose-built catamaran for a relaxed 2-hour nature cruise. Glide beneath sheer cliffs, spot waterfalls tumbling into the fiord, and marvel at Mitre Peak from the water. Complimentary tea, coffee, and onboard commentary included.

    • Alpine landing: On your return flight, enjoy a remote alpine landing. Step out for unbeatable views, fresh mountain air, and photos.

    • Expertly guided experience: Your pilot doubles as your personal guide in the air, offering live commentary about the landscapes below.

    • Small group, big experience: Flights are limited to just six passengers per helicopter, ensuring uninterrupted views, plenty of space, and a more personal experience from start to finish.

  • What to bring

    • Bring your windproof jacket, camera, and hat.

    What’s not allowed

    • This experience is restricted for passengers over the weight of 83kg.

    • Weapons, lighters, matches, batteries, e-cigarettes and safety matches are not allowed on this experience.

    Accessibility

    • This experience is suitable for guests with mobility issues.

    Additional information

    • The helicopter can accommodate up to 6 passengers for this experience.

    • Flight durations are approximate and may vary due to weather conditions. Occasionally, flight paths and landing sites may be adjusted at the pilot’s discretion for safety or operational reasons.

    • Please note the picnic lunch onboard the Milford Sound cruise is available at an additional cost.

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding/pick-up point.

    • Customers have an option to either opt for complimentary pick ups or choose to reach the boarding point on their own.

    Hotel transfers

    • This ticket includes complimentary pick-ups.

    • In the next step of booking, please select your pick-up point from the dropdown.

    • This is applicable to selected hotels in Central Queenstown area.

    • On the day of your tour, please report at your hotel lobby 15 min prior to your scheduled departure.

    • If your hotel does not have a lobby, please wait at the entrance of the hotel.

    Boarding point (If not opted for pick-up)

    • Show your ticket and board the flight at Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters.

    • Address: 35 Lucas Place, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand.

    Get directions to the boarding point

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