Glenorchy 50 min Helicopter Tour | Earnslaw Burn & Waterfalls






About this tour
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand on this flagship helicopter flight, departing from Glenorchy. Soar over vast valleys and winding rivers as you approach the grand and exclusive Mt Earnslaw, where towering peaks and dramatic cliffs will leave you in awe. Glide close to the magnificent hanging Earnslaw Glacier, witnessing its stunning blue ice suspended above the valley floor. Descend into an untouched wilderness surrounded by towering rock and ice formations, embracing the feeling of being a mere speck in nature’s grandeur. - A breathtaking helicopter flight showcasing New Zealand’s natural beauty - Fly over the towering Mt Earnslaw and its stunning glacier - Witness cascading waterfalls and views of iconic Lord of the Rings locations - Opportunity to meet conservationists and learn about local wildlife preservation
Highlights
- ✓Live commentary during the flight
- ✓Pilot guide
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop off
- ✓Scenic helicopter flight with exclsuive Earnslaw Burn landing (20 minutes)
Itinerary
Stop 1
The road to Glenorchy is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, winding 46 km along the edge of Lake Whakatipu. With dramatic mountain views, native forest, and iconic film locations, it’s a breathtaking journey into the heart of the Southern Alps
Stop 2
Glenorchy, a charming village at the top of Lake Whakatipu, framed by towering peaks and lush native forests, is your gateway to epic hikes and iconic Middle-earth scenery. Now, see it from a whole new perspective: soar above glistening alpine landscapes and dramatic valleys, taking in sweeping views that few ever experience. This is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s untouched wilderness from the air.
Stop 3
Your pilot will fly you deep into the heart of the Earnslaw Burn, an exclusive and breathtaking location. Marvel at the towering waterfalls and get up close to the impressive ‘hanging’ glacier that clings dramatically to the mountainside. Then, touch down in the remote valley for an unforgettable landing, where you’ll be surrounded by cascading falls and pristine alpine beauty — a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Stop 4
After your unforgettable time at Mt Earnslaw, your return flight takes you over the breathtaking Rees Valley. Soar above its braided river and lush alpine meadows, framed by rugged mountain peaks. This spectacular finale offers a bird’s-eye view of one of New Zealand’s most picturesque landscapes before you land back at Glenorchy.
Stop 5
Descending the scenic Glenorchy Road after your Earnslaw Burn adventure offers a breathtaking perspective. The dramatic mountains and native forests now frame a landscape you've just conquered, making this drive home a vivid reflection of your high-country adventure.
Included
- ✓ Live commentary during the flight
- ✓ Pilot guide
- ✓ Hotel pickup and drop off
- ✓ Scenic helicopter flight with exclsuive Earnslaw Burn landing (20 minutes)
Not included
- ✕ Meals
From
$362.13 USD
per person, price varies by group size & date
Check availabilityYou'll complete your booking securely on Viator
- ⏱ Duration varies
- ↩️ Free cancellation available
- 📍 Queenstown, New Zealand
As an affiliate partner, we may earn a commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability are set and provided by Viator.
Traveler reviews
Read what 8 travelers had to say about this tour on Viator.
Read all 8 reviews on Viator →Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Helicopter tours in Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown sits at the center of some of New Zealand's most dramatic alpine scenery, and it's one of the few places in the world where a helicopter tour can include an actual snow landing on a mountain peak.
When's the best time to fly?
Winter (June to August) is prime time for snow-landing tours; summer (December to February) trades the snow for longer days and clear views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps without needing cold-weather gear.
What should I bring?
Warm layers at any time of year, since it's cold at altitude even when Queenstown itself is mild, plus sunglasses for glare off the snow or lake.
What if the weather doesn't cooperate?
Like most operators, tours in Queenstown have standard weight and balance limits (you may be asked your weight when booking or checking in), and pilots will delay or reschedule rather than fly in unsafe wind, low visibility, or storms. Booking a tour with free cancellation means a weather delay won't cost you anything.
Compare tours in Queenstown, New Zealand
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Landing | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glenorchy 50 min Helicopter Tour | Earnslaw Burn & WaterfallsThis tour | Duration varies | 5.0 (8) | N/A | From $362.13 | |
| 2hr Scenic Milford Sound Flight with Landing - 201 | 2 hrs | 5.0 (69) | Yes | From $789.72 | View → |
| Helicopter Tour with Alpine Snow Landing from Queenstown | 1 hr | 5.0 (48) | Yes | From $533.05 | View → |
| Altitude Golf by Helicopter from Queenstown | 1.5 hrs | 5.0 (22) | N/A | From $446.14 | View → |
From
$362.13 USD
per person, price varies by group size & date
Check availabilityYou'll complete your booking securely on Viator
- ⏱ Duration varies
- ↩️ Free cancellation available
- 📍 Queenstown, New Zealand
As an affiliate partner, we may earn a commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability are set and provided by Viator.
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2hr Scenic Milford Sound Flight with Landing - 201
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