Top 8 Helicopter and Boat Tours in New Zealand

1.Half-Day Milford Helicopter Flight and Cruise from Queenstown

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 173 reviews · from $887Our pick

You’ll fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters, cruise the fiord for about an hour, and land on a glacier or alpine site in Fiordland National Park. Pilots such as Luke, Jeremy, Will, Alfie, and Jack are praised for clear commentary and calm handling. Hotel pickup, headsets, and return transfers are included.

“Our pilot Michael was excellent showing us a most beautiful part of New Zealand and giving us a very memorable experience!”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Milford Sound Cruise & Helicopter Alpine Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 165 reviews · 4 hours · from $786

Fly from Queenstown over Fiordland National Park, land at Milford Sound, and cruise beneath cliffs and waterfalls before a return flight with a glacier or alpine landing. English-speaking pilots such as Luke, Jeremy, and Alfie have been praised for clear commentary and calm reassurance. Snow is seasonal, and weather may change the route.

“Absolutely amazing and breathtaking views and scenery. Would HIGHLY recommend the helicopter. Won’t see anything more spectacular. The pilot and crew are so friendly and supportive. Great”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · 4 hours · from $953

You’ll leave Queenstown by helicopter, cross alpine lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers with pilot commentary, then land near Milford Sound for a two-hour cruise. A second flight returns you to Queenstown, with a remote alpine landing included when conditions allow. The small group is limited to six, and routes vary with weather.

“Spectacular Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing Breathtaking views of mountains and fjords—an unforgettable experience from above! The glacier landing was magical, surrounded by sparkling ice. Perfect organization and a professional pilot made this trip absolutely fantastic. Highly recommended!”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Milford Sound Helicopter Flight and Cruise from Queenstown

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 18 reviews · from $1,272

From Over The Top Helicopters in Frankton, you fly across the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, join a scenic cruise, then return by helicopter for a second landing on a remote snow-capped alpine site. Pilot-guides such as Ben provide commentary, and hotel pickup, headsets, fees, and Queenstown drop-off are included.

“Our pilot, Ben, was both fun and skillful and shared interesting points of fact, stories, gorgeous vistas, and strategic landings. He was professional and knew how to make the experience the best it could possibly be for everyone on board…a true captain of his “ship”. Highly recommend.”

Check availability →Read our full review

5.Milford Sound Helicopter and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 8 reviews · from $1,015

You’ll fly from Queenstown over Glenorchy, the Dart and Rees valleys, and Fiordland National Park, with pilot commentary and an alpine landing. In Milford Sound, enjoy a two-hour Mitre Peak Cruises sailing before returning by helicopter. Pilots may include Bill, Pete, Charlotte, or Jono, subject to availability.

“We had the extreme pleasure of having Pete as our pilot. He was very thorough, shared so much about about the geography and history of the area, and was literally the best helicopter pilot I've ever experienced (over 40 yrs he said!!). Read more”

Check availability →Read our full review

6.Wānaka: Heli Siberia – Helicopter Flight, Hike & Jet Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 4 reviews · 5 hours · from $415

You’ll fly 15 minutes over the Wilkin and Makarora rivers, land in Mount Aspiring National Park, and follow a three-hour self-guided hike through Siberia Valley. A 30-minute Wilkin River Jets ride then carries you through beech forest and river valleys. Bring warm clothes, water, snacks, and sturdy hiking shoes.

Check availability →Read our full review

7.Christchurch Heli-Jet – Helicopter and Jet Boat

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews · from $291Best value

Take off from Harewood with a licensed pilot, view Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains from above, then land by the Waimakariri River for the 20-minute Braided Blast jet boat ride. After spins and fast shallow-water runs, board the helicopter back to base. The small group has a maximum of six people.

“Felt like a rockstar getting choppered into the boats 😂 Beautiful seeing Christchurch from the sky The river is so clear and beautiful Would definitely do it again ❤️”

Check availability →Read our full review

8.Wānaka: Heli Siberia Max – Helicopter Flight, Hike, Jet Boat

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews · 5 hours · from $535

You’ll fly with Backcountry Helicopters over the Wilkin and Makarora rivers, land in Mount Aspiring National Park, and hike three hours through Siberia Valley past waterfalls, alpine lakes, and Mt. Pollux Glaciers. Michael and Holly lead the outdoor sections, while a 30-minute Wilkin River Jets ride finishes the day.

Check availability →Read our full review