Heli Glenorchy

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Heli Glenorchy

Earnslaw Burn Heli Hike

  $1,675 per person

  Allow 3 - 3.5 hours

 

The Heli-Hike Experience like no other: Earnslaw Burn

Get ready for the ultimate adventure—an experience like no other. The Earnslaw Burn heli-hike takes you deep into one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. Lifting off from the charming township of Glenorchy, you’ll soar above towering peaks and pristine valleys, feeling the rush of excitement as the rugged beauty of the land unfolds beneath you.

As you land in the heart of the untouched Earnslaw Valley, you’ll step into a world of cascading waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and lush alpine meadows that seem straight out of a dream. With each step on this guided hike, you’ll be immersed in the raw, dramatic terrain that defines this wilderness. Traverse the glacier-fed river, marvel at the thriving native flora and fauna, and witness the untamed beauty of the Earnslaw Burn Basin—where waterfalls surround you, creating a magical backdrop for a delicious artisan picnic lunch.

The adventure continues as you take flight once again, soaring back to Glenorchy with an incredible ascent that brings you face-to-face with the blue ice of the hanging glacier—an experience so close, you can almost touch it.

But this journey is more than just about stunning views. Along the way, you might have the rare opportunity to meet a member of the Southern Lakes Sanctuary conservation team, learning about the incredible work being done to protect this unique ecosystem and its diverse wildlife. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply someone who craves an unforgettable experience, the Earnslaw Burn heli-hike promises a day filled with exploration, inspiration, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Why choose the Earnslaw Burn Heli-Hike?

  • Immerse yourself in untouched wilderness without the need for an exhausting trek
  • See the dramatic beauty of a hanging glacier and glistening blue ice up close
  • Experience seasonal waterfalls cascading from alpine cliffs
  • Enjoy a locally crafted gourmet picnic in the heart of the Earnslaw Valley
  • Guided hike through glacier-fed rivers, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain
  • Opportunity to learn about conservation efforts from the Southern Lakes Sanctuary team
  • Perfect for adventurers seeking exploration, inspiration, and lasting memories

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This adventure requires a moderate level of fitness. The trail follows an alpine track with undulating terrain, including rocky sections, soft and damp ground, and potential water or stream crossings. If you have any questions about the terrain or your ability, feel free to chat with our friendly team.

 


Allow 3 - 3.5 hours


Mount Earnslaw Station


Conscious Choice


Alpine


Waterfalls


Rivers

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+): $1,675 per person

Child (3-11): $1,175 per person

Infant (0-2): N/A

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): $8,375 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.

  • Sturdy hiking footwear. Waterproof boots with ankle support are advised
  • Dress in breathable layers for changing conditions.
  • Small backpack – To carry essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers
  • Remember to bring your camera, sunscreen and sunglasses & insect repellant

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 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.