Lake Wakatipu by Helicopter
Lake Wakatipu is the long, glacially carved lake Queenstown sits on, running in a distinctive zigzag shape for about 80 kilometers between the mountains. It's the third-largest lake in New Zealand and the view most people associate with Queenstown itself.
Seeing it by helicopter
Since most Queenstown helicopter flights take off right beside the lake, it's usually the first thing you see climbing out, and its zigzag bends are far easier to make sense of from the air than from any single point on the shore. Longer scenic flights and Milford Sound routes typically track along part of its length before turning toward the mountains.
Helicopter tours that fly over Lake Wakatipu
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown: The Grand Circle Scenic Helicopter Flight
Explore the stunning diversity of Queenstown. From the majestic canyons of the Shotover River to the ski slopes of Coronet Peak, the delightful rural retreats, and the charming villages that Queenstown is known for. This
35 min
From $290.52 USD
Likely to sell outQueenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown Southern Glacier 50 Minute Helicopter Flight
Soar over the majestic Southern Alps on a 50-minute breathtaking helicopter flight from Queenstown. Discover the mystery of Lake Wakatipu's northern shores, before experiencing a snow landing on the distinctive Jura Gla
50 min
From $507.67 USD
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown Memories Helicopter Flight
Includes: 1 Alpine Lift from our hangar at Queenstown Airport, fly up to the Remarkables Mountain range, where the helicopter will land and shutdown, so you can experience the complete serenity of the area. Experience t
30 min
From $366.23 USD
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown to Milford Sound Scenic Helicopter and Premium Cruise
Milford Sound’s breathtaking landscapes await in this exclusive Heli‑Cruise‑Heli Ultimate experience. Begin your journey with a scenic flight from Queenstown, soaring over Fiordland National Park’s dramatic peaks and lus
5 hrs to 6 hrs
From $1370.5 USD
Queenstown, New Zealand
Milford Sound Tour Cruise and Helicopter
Embark on an intimate small-group adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound—one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural wonders. This fully guided day trip is more than just a destination; it’s an experience crafted with care
10 hrs
From $1012.28 USD
Likely to sell outQueenstown, New Zealand
Milford Sound Discoverer 2 Hour Scenic Helicopter Experience
Experience the stunning beauty of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi from both above and at ground level. This unique tour combines a scenic helicopter flight over Fiordland National Park with an alpine landing, allowing you to
2 hrs
From $877.43 USD
Good to know
- •This lake is less a destination in its own right and more the backdrop for nearly every flight out of Queenstown -- you'll see it on virtually any tour, not just lake-specific ones.
- •The S-shaped bends are most visible on takeoff and landing, when the helicopter is still at a lower altitude.
- •Clear, calm days show the mountain reflections on the water best.
Will I see Lake Wakatipu on any Queenstown helicopter tour, or only specific ones?
Virtually any tour taking off from Queenstown shows you the lake, since the local heliports sit right on its shore. It's less a separate stop and more the view you get on your way to wherever the tour is actually headed.
See live availability for Queenstown helicopter tours on Viator.
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