Queenstown Helicopter Experience Exclusive Earnslaw Burn Glacier

If you’re dreaming of soaring above some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes, the Queenstown Helicopter Experience to Earnslaw Burn is a trip worth considering. This helicopter adventure promises an exclusive landing at the stunning Earnslaw Burn glacier, offering travelers a rare chance to get close to a hanging glacier with vibrant blue ice and tumbling waterfalls. With a sleek, well-organized operation by Heliworks, it’s clear this tour is designed for those eager to combine adventure with awe-inspiring scenery.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the exclusive landing rights at Earnslaw Burn, which means you get to step out onto the glacier’s valley floor—something most visitors can’t do—and the scenic flight over historic Skippers Canyon, with its rugged schist slopes and traces of gold mining history. The only potential drawback? The tour’s price tag of around $570 makes it a significant splurge, but for many, the breathtaking views and once-in-a-lifetime access justify the cost.

This helicopter tour is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager for a memorable, high-end experience that combines scenic flight with exclusive access. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the hidden beauty of Queenstown’s remote glaciers and don’t mind paying a premium for a truly unique encounter.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to the Earnslaw Burn glacier, a rare landing spot for helicopter tours.
• Unparalleled views of blue ice, waterfalls, and surrounding rugged terrain.
• Scenic flight over historic Skippers Canyon and gold mining sites.
• Flexible seasonal scenery, with waterfalls in summer and snow in winter.
• Short, intense experience, with about 20 minutes on the glacier and a total flight time of around an hour.
• All-weather cancellation policy and optional hotel pick-up make planning easier.

Introduction to the Queenstown Helicopter Experience

Our review of this helicopter tour in Queenstown focuses on the unique blend of adventure, scenery, and exclusivity it offers. While we haven’t flown it ourselves, the detailed descriptions and glowing reviews make it clear this is an experience that appeals to those craving a bird’s-eye view of New Zealand’s rugged beauty.

What stands out most are two features: getting to land on the glacier itself, and the spectacular flight over Skippers Canyon, a historic gold-mining corridor with sheer cliffs and stories of the past. We also love the peace of mind that comes with the tour’s well-organized nature—meet at the Queenstown hangar, safety briefings, and a maximum group size of 15 travelers keep the experience intimate and manageable.

On the flip side, the cost is relatively high, which might be a barrier for some. However, considering the exclusivity, scenery, and the chance to stand on a glacier that most visitors only see from afar, many will find it well worth the investment. This is perfect for travelers who prioritize authentic, memorable experiences over budget-friendly options.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The main draw here is the exclusive landing at Earnslaw Burn, a pristine glacier valley that no other company is permitted to access. As the only operator with landing rights, Heliworks offers a truly intimate encounter with this icy landscape. You’ll step out onto the glacier’s valley floor, marveling at the hanging glacier above, fringed by waterfalls in summer or shimmering snow in winter.

The scenic flight itself is a highlight—soaring over the historic Skippers Canyon, with its rugged cliffs and remnants of old gold mines, gives you a sense of the wild, adventurous past of this region. The views of vibrant blue ice and cascading waterfalls are often described as “magical” and “breathtaking,” deserving of many travelers’ bucket lists.

During the flight, your pilot will provide live commentary, pointing out geological features, history, and photography tips. The entire tour lasts about an hour, with roughly 20 minutes on the glacier itself. The experience’s brevity is balanced by its intensity—each moment is packed with scenery and excitement, making it a great choice for those with limited time but seeking a big impact.

Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the Queenstown hangar, your adventure begins with a brief safety briefing and meeting your pilot. From there, the takeoff is smooth, and you’ll quickly ascend over Queenstown’s stunning lake and mountains. The first major highlight is the flight over Skippers Canyon, a narrow, winding gorge with steep walls and traces of historic gold mining sites. This view alone is worth the price of admission, offering a glimpse into the area’s rugged, pioneering history.

Next, the helicopter descends into the Earnslaw Burn valley—a remote, pristine landscape that few see up close. Your pilot will carefully land at the base of the hanging glacier, where you’ll step out onto the glacier’s valley floor. Here, you can marvel at the colossal ice formations, their vibrant blue hues especially striking in winter, and the waterfalls that tumble from the ice in summer.

During the 20-minute stop, you’ll have ample opportunity for photos and to genuinely appreciate the scale of this icy world. The close-up views of the glacier, ice, and waterfalls make it a truly unique experience—something most travelers only get to admire from a distance or on distant glacier hikes.

Finally, your pilot will lift off again, guiding you back over the mountains and lakes of Queenstown, giving you panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and seasonal waterfalls. The flight concludes back at the hangar, leaving you with memories of an unforgettable adventure.

What Travelers Say

The reviews speak volumes about the appeal of this tour. One traveler called it “the absolute highlight of the trip,” emphasizing the magical, breathtaking views and six-star service. Another praised the company’s professionalism and flexibility, especially when flights to Milford Sound were disrupted by weather—showing how Heliworks aims to keep guests satisfied, even if plans change.

These comments highlight the tour’s value for money, especially considering the exclusive landing and the high-quality experience provided. Many reviewers mention how the scenery exceeded expectations, with waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain vistas leaving a lasting impression.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is priced at around $570.93 per person, which might seem steep, but it includes exclusive access, a scenic flight, live commentary, and the opportunity to step onto the glacier—a combination hard to match elsewhere. The tour is booked on average 43 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended if you want to secure a spot.

The experience lasts roughly one hour, with about 20 minutes on the glacier. The tour is shared, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal feel. Pickup options are available, and tickets are electronic—convenient for last-minute planning.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a weight limit of 353 lbs per passenger. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers will find the experience accessible. Weather is a key factor—if conditions are poor, your flight may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling options.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a premium, once-in-a-lifetime experience, this helicopter tour to Earnslaw Burn ticks every box. It offers exclusive access to a remote glacier, stunning scenic flights over historic sites, and the thrill of standing on ice that most visitors only see from afar. It’s a perfect fit for adventure-minded travelers, photographers, or anyone who appreciates the raw beauty of New Zealand’s mountains and glaciers.

While the price is significant, the value lies in the exclusivity and breathtaking scenery. If you’re willing to invest in a memorable adventure that combines scenic flight, exclusive landings, and a sense of remote wilderness, this tour delivers on all counts.

In short, this experience is best for those with a sense of adventure and a love for authentic, awe-inspiring landscapes. It’s an unforgettable way to see Queenstown’s natural wonders from a perspective few will ever experience.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts about an hour, including the flight and the 20-minute landing at Earnslaw Burn.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes aerial views of Queenstown, an exclusive landing at Earnslaw Burn, close-up views of the glacier and waterfalls, live commentary, and optional hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The only limitation is a maximum weight of 353 lbs per passenger. Service animals are allowed.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 43 days in advance is typical, but early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred date.

What makes this tour unique?
The key feature is the exclusive landing at Earnslaw Burn, a rare opportunity to step onto a remote glacier, combined with scenic flights over historic canyons and mountains.

What season is best for this tour?
Both summer and winter have their charm—summer offers lush waterfalls, while winter provides snow-covered glaciers. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
Optional hotel pick-up and drop-off are available, making logistics easier.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, warm layers (especially in winter), and a sense of adventure. No meals are included, so plan accordingly.

For those dreaming of an unforgettable journey into New Zealand’s wild heart, this helicopter adventure stands out as a gift to the senses—combining thrill, beauty, and a touch of exclusivity.