Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour

This review explores a unique helicopter experience on New Zealand’s South Island — the Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour. While we haven’t personally taken the trip, we’ve gathered detailed insights to help you decide if it’s a must-do for your adventure list. Imagine soaring over towering glaciers, landing in a lush valley for a gourmet picnic, all accompanied by jaw-dropping views and the crisp mountain air.

What we love about this tour is the spectacular scenery you get from the air, and the chance to enjoy a delicious, locally-made picnic right beside a hanging glacier. The tour feels like a true escape into nature’s most dramatic landscapes. A minor consideration might be the price, which, though justified by the scenery and exclusivity, is a bit of an investment compared to more traditional day trips.

This experience suits romantic couples, honeymooners, and those celebrating special moments, or any traveler eager for a truly memorable adventure. If you’re craving a blend of adrenaline, natural beauty, and a luxury touch, this helicopter picnic might be exactly what you’re searching for.

Key Points

• Unmatched views of Mt Earnslaw Glacier and waterfalls from the helicopter
• Private picnic beneath a hanging glacier with local wines and gourmet food
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Family-friendly and wheelchair accessible design
• Spring and summer months offer the most waterfalls and flow, but winter still delivers stunning snow-covered scenery
• A perfect choice for romantic occasions or special celebrations

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour

What Makes This Tour Special?

The Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour is more than just a scenic flight — it’s a chance to experience one of New Zealand’s most dramatic alpine settings in an intimate, unforgettable way. You’ll fly over the world-famous Earnslaw Burn, a deep glacier-carved valley made famous by movies like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds in layers of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and the towering Mt Earnslaw Glacier.

The helicopter lands in a carefully chosen spot where you can enjoy your picnic in a truly unique setting. Imagine a table set beneath a hanging glacier, with the sound of waterfalls all around. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a postcard or a movie scene.

The Helicopter Flight: Breathtaking from Start to Finish

The flight duration of approximately 1.5 hours gives ample time for breathtaking aerial views. The helicopter ride itself is smooth and stable, offering a bird’s-eye perspective on the rugged, unspoiled wilderness. From the air, you’ll see the Whakatipu basin, with its shimmering waters and expansive mountain ranges.

Travelers consistently praise the quality of the views, describing them as “spectacular,” “jaw-dropping,” and “beyond what you could hope for.” Many reviews highlight the crisp, fresh mountain air and the bright sunlight bouncing off the snow as making the experience feel almost surreal, especially in clear weather.

The Picnic: A Gourmet Feast in the Wild

Once landed, you’ll find yourself in a secluded alpine setting, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the surroundings. The picnic features locally made foods and a selection of fine wines, which travelers find pairs beautifully with the scenery. Several reviews mention how the quality of the food and drink elevates this outing from a simple picnic to a memorable culinary experience.

The setting beneath the hanging glacier feels private and exclusive, with plenty of room to walk around, explore, or simply sit back and take in the views. Many describe it as “the most romantic picnic imaginable,” ideal for proposals, honeymoons, or anniversaries.

More Great Tours Nearby

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

In spring and summer (September to March), waterfalls are more vigorous, flowing with meltwater from the glacier, creating a symphony of rushing water. In winter months (June to August), waterfalls are less vigorous due to snow cover, but snow and ice coverage add a different kind of stark beauty, with extra snow on the glacier and throughout the valley.

Travelers who’ve been in winter say it’s still a magical landscape, with plenty of snow and a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. However, the waterfalls may be less dramatic during this time.

Practicalities and Booking

The tour is offered by Heliworks Queenstown, rated 4.8 on review platforms, reflecting high customer satisfaction. Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, offering flexibility if your plans change.

You’ll need to reserve in advance, particularly during peak seasons. The process includes providing passenger weights to comply with aviation safety regulations, which is standard for helicopter tours.

What to bring: comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the jaw-dropping views. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good choice for travelers with mobility needs.

The cost is a consideration; the experience offers significant value through its combination of scenic beauty, exclusive setting, and gourmet picnic. It’s more of an investment compared to typical sightseeing options, but many find the memories and photo opportunities priceless.

Authentic Voices and Real Experiences

Multiple reviews mention how “the views are unforgettable” and “the perfect way to celebrate a special moment.” Travelers love the personalized, intimate nature of the experience, describing it as “a once-in-a-lifetime adventure” with excellent service from the providers.

Some note that the helicopter ride itself is smooth and quiet, making it easy to take photos and enjoy the scenery without distraction. Others appreciate the local wines and gourmet food, which add a touch of luxury that elevates the whole experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter picnic is best suited for romantic couples, honeymooners, or those celebrating a special event. It’s a fabulous choice if you want a luxurious, scenic escape that combines adventure with comfort. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning vistas and waterfalls, while photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture breathtaking shots.

If your idea of a memorable trip involves high-quality scenery, gourmet food, and a sense of exclusivity, this experience hits the mark. Those with limited time in Queenstown or looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure will find this tour offers exceptional value.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour offers a stunning blend of adventure, scenery, and luxury. For a price that reflects its exclusivity and the spectacular setting, you’ll gain access to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. The aerial views of waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain basins are hard to match, and the picnic beneath the glacier provides a memorable highlight that’s perfect for romantic occasions or simply celebrating a love for wild beauty.

If you’re seeking an authentic, high-end experience that combines the thrill of helicopter travel with the serenity of nature, this tour provides a rare opportunity to enjoy it all. It’s a great way to turn a trip to New Zealand into a story you’ll tell for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time for stunning aerial views and a relaxed experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the scenery and to capture memories.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

When is the best time of year to go?
Spring and summer offer the most waterfalls and flow, but winter still provides beautiful snow-covered landscapes and extra tranquility.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the picnic included in the price?
Yes, the gourmet picnic with local wines is part of the experience, served in a stunning mountain setting.

How many people will be on the helicopter?
The experience is typically private or small-group, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Passenger weights are required at booking for safety reasons, but specific limits are not mentioned.

Is the experience suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention it’s perfect for proposals, honeymoons, and anniversaries because of its romantic setting.

What is the provider’s rating?
Helliworks Queenstown has a strong rating of 4.8 out of 5 from traveler reviews, indicating high satisfaction.

The Sum Up

The Earnslaw Burn Picnic Helicopter Tour offers a rare chance to combine adventure, luxury, and nature in one unforgettable package. The spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and hanging glaciers make it a highlight for travelers seeking a truly special experience. The gourmet picnic beneath the glacier, paired with the aerial perspectives, makes this a trip worth considering for those celebrating a milestone or simply wanting to indulge in New Zealand’s wild beauty.

While it’s an investment, the memories, photos, and stories you’ll gain are likely to last a lifetime. It’s perfect for lovers of scenic grandeur, fine food, and exclusive adventures. If you’re after a luxurious, breathtaking escape into New Zealand’s wilderness, this tour promises to deliver a truly remarkable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby