The dramatic Southern Alps and winding Avon River make Christchurch’s helicopter tours some of New Zealand’s most rewarding aerial experiences. These sky-high adventures come in several well-organized options. The Helicopter Picnic stands out for its perfect blend of scenery and serenity, while the 30-minute trial flight offers hands-on flying experience – a rare treat for aviation enthusiasts. City landmark tours provide excellent photo opportunities of the Botanic Gardens and Cathedral, especially during golden hour. My favorite is the Heli-Jet combo, combining aerial views with an exhilarating jet boat ride – it’s the best bang for your buck and showcases Christchurch from every angle. Let’s explore the top helicopter tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Christchurch Helicopter Picnic offers a unique dining experience with gourmet picnic baskets and panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Avon River.
- The Christchurch Helicopter Trial Flight provides a hands-on experience piloting a helicopter under qualified instructors for 30 minutes.
- The Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour offers a 30-minute flight over key landmarks, including the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, and Christchurch Cathedral.
- The Christchurch 20-Minute City Helicopter Flight showcases the captivating cityscape, including the Avon River, botanical gardens, and new library.
- The Christchurch Heli-Jet Experience combines helicopter and jet boat tours, providing aerial views of Christchurch landmarks and an adventure through narrow canyons.
Christchurch Helicopter Picnic
The Christchurch Helicopter Picnic whisks visitors away to breathtaking locations for a truly unique dining experience.
Soar over the city’s stunning landscapes before landing at a secluded spot, where a gourmet picnic basket awaits. Savor locally-sourced delicacies as you take in panoramic views of the Southern Alps or the shimmering Avon River.
The experience is perfect for special occasions, with customizable menus and the option to add champagne or wine. Passengers can choose from a range of helicopter sizes to accommodate small groups or larger parties.
Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a celebration with friends, the Christchurch Helicopter Picnic offers an unforgettable airborne adventure.
Read our full review: Christchurch Helicopter Picnic Review
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Christchurch: Helicopter Trial Flight
For those seeking a more hands-on aerial adventure, the Christchurch Helicopter Trial Flight offers a chance to pilot an aircraft under the guidance of qualified instructors.
The 30-minute trial flight is part of a 1-hour experience, including a briefing, and costs from Kč 5,075 per person. Participants can reserve a spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The flight includes take-off, hover, flight, and landing guidance, making it suitable for beginners and advanced riders alike. However, the activity has age and safety restrictions, with closed-toe shoes required and alcohol, drugs, and intoxication prohibited.
Read our full review: Christchurch: Helicopter Trial Flight Review
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Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour
Those seeking a more comprehensive aerial tour of Christchurch can opt for the Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour.
This 30-minute flight takes passengers over the city’s key landmarks, including the Avon River, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, and the Christchurch Cathedral. The tour also provides bird’s-eye views of the city’s rebuild following the 2011 earthquake.
Passengers can expect to see the iconic Canterbury Plains, the Port Hills, and the Southern Alps in the distance.
The Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour offers a unique perspective of the city and its natural surroundings, making it a popular choice for both visitors and locals alike.
Prices start at $190 per person, with various tour packages available.
Read our full review: Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour Review
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Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight
This 20-minute helicopter flight offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the captivating cityscape of Christchurch from a bird’s-eye view.
Priced from €175.75 per person, this limited-group tour takes you on a scenic journey over the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Avon River, botanical gardens, and the new library.
You’ll also enjoy panoramic vistas of the Banks Peninsula and its picturesque coastline.
With live English commentary, this experience caters to both first-time and seasoned flyers.
Participants prone to motion sickness are advised to take necessary precautions.
The flight is subject to weather conditions, with a minimum of two fares required for it to occur.
Read our full review: Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight Review
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Youfly Trial Flight – Fly a Helicopter
Youfly’s trial flight offers a unique opportunity to pilot a helicopter under the guidance of experienced instructors.
The 30-minute session allows participants to take the controls and maneuver the aircraft, with the instructor providing assistance as needed. This hands-on experience is perfect for those curious about helicopter flying, providing a thrilling introduction to the art of rotary-wing aviation.
The trial flight takes place in a modern, well-maintained helicopter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re a first-time flyer or have some experience, the Youfly trial flight is an excellent way to explore the joys of helicopter piloting in the skies above Christchurch.
Read our full review: Youfly Trial Flight – Fly a Helicopter Review
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Christchurch Heli-Jet – Helicopter and Jet Boat
Christchurch Heli-Jet offers a thrilling combination of helicopter and jet boat experiences. This unique tour allows adventurous travelers to soar over the stunning landscapes of Christchurch before transitioning to a high-speed jet boat ride.
The helicopter segment provides breathtaking aerial views of the city’s iconic landmarks, the Southern Alps, and the winding Waimakariri River. After landing, guests board the jet boat for an adrenaline-fueled journey through the river’s narrow canyons, navigating tight turns and experiencing the boat’s powerful maneuverability.
This combined tour is perfect for those seeking an exhilarating and diverse adventure in Christchurch. With professional pilots and guides, Christchurch Heli-Jet delivers an unforgettable experience that blends the thrill of helicopter flight and the rush of jet boating.
Read our full review: Christchurch Heli-Jet – Helicopter and Jet Boat Review
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Sum Up
Christchurch offers a variety of exciting helicopter flights and tours. From picnics and trial flights to scenic tours and jet boat adventures, there’s something for all. These experiences provide a unique perspective of the city and its stunning natural surroundings. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a seasoned aviation enthusiast, these helicopter options are sure to create unforgettable memories during your visit to Christchurch.