Alpine Express

  $275 per person

  20 minute experience

 

Glide Over the Humboldts on This Alpine Journey

Looking for a quick yet breathtaking alpine escape? Our Alpine Express Scenic Flight delivers soaring views and unforgettable mountain experiences in a short, exhilarating journey.

This helicopter tour lifts off from just outside Glenorchy, climbing above the sparkling waters of Lake Whakatipu and the rugged landscapes beyond. As you near the Humboldt Mountains, the scenery opens up to snow-capped peaks, valleys, and sweeping high-country vistas. Your experienced pilot will share insights into the unique geography and history of the region.

Ready for the peak of the journey? A peaceful alpine landing on the Humboldts. Step out into a serene world of towering peaks and crisp mountain air, taking in panoramic views that stretch endlessly. Perfect for capturing photos or simply soaking in the remote atmosphere.

After your landing, return to the helicopter for a scenic flight back, giving you a final chance to admire the grandeur of Glenorchy and Lake Whakatipu from above. Whether you’re after adventure or a tranquil escape, this is nothing short of an unforgettable experience.


Why the Alpine Express is the experience for you?

  • Memorable alpine landing with perfect photo opportunities
  • Experience the Humboldt Mountain Range up close
  • Stunning aerial views over Glenorchy and Lake Whakatipu
  • Winter snow landing, weather permitting
  • Expert pilots sharing local knowledge and stories

 


20 minute experience


Alpine landing


Alpine


Alpine Seasonal Snow

The prices listed below are for our shared departures, so other guests will be on your flight. Our prices also change subject to change annually.

Adult (12+): $275 per person

Child (3-11): $195 per person

Infant: (0-2): $140 per person

Prices are valid from 1 April 2026 - 30 September 2027. On our shared departures, you may be in a helicopter with up to 9 people.

We have private charter rates available for our Squirrel helicopters, our twin-engine Squirrels and our 9-seater BK (upon request).

Charters are a great option for bigger groups, or if you would like a more intimate experience.

Find out more about our fleet.

Squirrel (up to 6 passengers): $1,375 per helicopter

Prices are valid from 1 April 2026 - 30 September 2027.

We offer complimentary return transport from Central Queenstown. Please make sure to book this in addition to your flight experience. If you are self-driving, we are based in Glenorchy at 35 Mull Street and we have plenty of parking available. After you have checked in, you will make your way to Glenorchy Aerodrome for your flight.

  • Wear comfortable covered shoes
  • Bring along or wear warm clothing, including a jacket
  • Remember to bring your camera, sunscreen and sunglasses

Bookings
• We recommend booking in advance via our online booking calendar.
• For the purpose of aircraft weight and balance and in accordance with the Civil Aviation Authority rules and regulations, we require all passenger weights at the time of booking. Once we have received and reviewed this information we will be able to confirm the booking.
• Our booking system will ask for your credit card details, which are securely stored to confirm your booking, however we will not charge your card until the day of your flight.
• Please note a surcharge will be incurred for credit and contactless payments.

Your flight
• You will need to contact us one hour prior to your departure time for a weather check.
• Minimum passenger numbers are required for all scenic flights. We reserve the right to upgrade passengers or merge flights for operational reasons or flight management purposes if required.
• Flights depart on demand and are subject to availability.
• Flights depart from our Heli Glenorchy base in Glenorchy.
• Advertised times away, flight and landing times are approximate and can be subject to weather conditions. On occasion, flight paths and landing locations may change at the pilot’s discretion.

Pricing
• Our prices change annually from 1 October. Please select your preferred date of travel on our booking system or view the pricing section to view pricing schedules.
• Prices are in $NZD currency and include Goods and Services Tax.
• We reserve the right to change prices at any time without further notice. However, if we have confirmed an advance booking the quoted price will not be altered.

Payments
• We accept EFTPOS, Visa, Mastercard, AMEX and cash. Please note a surcharge will be incurred for credit and contactless payments.

Cancellations
• Any cancellations made within 24 hours of departure will incur a 50% cancellation fee. If passengers ‘no-show’ for a flight, 100% of the fare will apply. If we cannot operate due to weather and as a result, passengers are unable to fly, no cancellation fees will apply.

 

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