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5 Best Queenstown Helicopter Tours 🚁 [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, what are the best helicopter flights in queenstown.

Nothing captures the dramatic alpine scenery of Queenstown quite like a helicopter flight. Flying by helicopter from Queenstown not only means that you can soar over the landscapes of a UNESCO World Heritage Area , but land in remote locations that no one else could enjoy. Queenstown helicopter tours can be anything from 20 minutes to three hours of breathtaking scenery where every single photo in you take is bound to be a prize-winner. All helicopter tours include a landing, whether it’s on a glacier, to ski on pristine slopes, or to enjoy a gourmet picnic by a remote lake. Take a look at the list of the best helicopter tour companies in Queenstown below and start planning your adventure like no other.

While you’re here, you might also be interested in 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown and 5 Best Scenic Flights to Milford Sound from Queenstown .

1. The Helicopter Line Queenstown

Fly over Queenstown’s iconic mountains with a snow landing almost always included in the experience. The Helicopter Line Queenstown is Queenstown’s original helicopter tour company, taking you to the scenic highlights of Queenstown or even further afield to Mt Cook , Twizel , Franz Josef and Fox Glacier . They offer four set tours, with the most popular being The Remarkables with a landing in the mountains or the Southern Glacier Experience with a landing on the Jura Glacier. Find out more about The Helicopter Line Queenstown, read reviews and book a flight on Viator ,  Tripadvisor or KKday .

2. Over The Top – The Helicopter Company

Over The Top Helicopters mixes scenic flights over Queenstown, Milford Sound and Fiordland with adventure experiences. Combine your flight to alpine glaciers or remote lakes with a gourmet picnic, hiking, boating, extreme golfing, wine tastings and fly fishing. Check out their Private Champagne Picnic or Altitude Golf Experience for examples of their unique helicopter tours in Queenstown. Find out more about Over The Top – The Helicopter Company on Klook , Viator and Tripadvisor . See more special occasion activities in the  19 Most Romantic Things to Do in Queenstown for Couples .

3. Glacier Southern Lake Helicopters

Soar over Queenstown, Mt Aspiring, Fiordland National Park and Middle-earth scenery on a scenic helicopter tour with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters . The helicopter company owns an up-to-date fleet of Airbus helicopters, offering spectacular tours to Milford Sound including a glacier landing, a tour of The Remarkables with a mountain landing, or treat yourself to something extra special with a Private Charter Fiordland Ultimate Helicopter Tour . See the complete offering of Glacier Southern Lake Helicopters on Viator and Tripadvisor .

4. Alpine Luxury Tours

Alpine Luxury Tours offers a wide range of luxury activities in Queenstown, from wine tours to heli-hikes. Among their offering, are scenic helicopter flights through Queenstown’s remote backcountry, to Milford Sound, and most famously, for a heli-hike to Middle-earth Waterfalls , otherwise known as Earnslaw Burn. Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or not, it’s hard to not be impressed by this hanging glacier creating tumbling waterfalls. Discover more experiences from Alpine Luxury Tours on Viator and Tripadvisor . Additionally, find out more about the Middle-earth locations in the area with our guide, Lord of the Rings Locations in Queenstown , as well as more luxury tours in the  10 Best Luxury Experiences in Queenstown .

5. Alpine Heliski

Swap the busy Queenstown ski fields in the winter season for remote and uncrowded runs in a heli-skiing experience with Alpine Heliski . Land on a remote mountain with powdery snow for a couple of long runs following your expert guide through stunning scenery. Midway through the tour, you’ll enjoy a hot gourmet lunch with tremendous alpine views. Choose to pay for extra runs or head back down to Queenstown Airport with hotel transfers included. Discover more from Alpine Heliski on Viator and Tripadvisor . Plus, learn more about skiing in Queenstown in our The Ultimate Guide to the Queenstown Ski Season .

More About Queenstown

That’s it for our list of the best Queenstown helicopter tours but by no means the end of our Queenstown advice. Check out more tips in the following guides:

• 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown
• Top 5 Golf Courses in Queenstown
• 10 Wonderful Wineries in Queenstown
• 13 Best Foodie Experiences in Queenstown
• 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Queenstown

Finally, get all-inclusive planning advice in  The Complete Travel Guide to Queenstown .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2024])
• Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Home » All Scenic Flights » Earnslaw Burn » Earnslaw Burn Express

• Earnslaw Burn Express

ENQUIRE NOW   BOOK NOW

Experience the Earnslaw Burn by Helicopter

Highlights:

• Experience the hanging glacier, blue ice, and waterfalls
• Heliworks is the only company permitted to land at Earnslaw Burn
• Views over historic Skippers Canyon

This experience is popular for a reason. The Earnslaw Burn boasts an incredible hanging glacier and waterfalls, and as we’re the only company permitted to land there, it is our favourite spot – and a favourite for our guests to explore, and when you see it you’ll understand why.

Heliworks and our sister company, Heli Glenorchy are the only companies permitted to land at the stunning Earnslaw Burn. 

To get there we fly over schist slopes, admiring the old gold mining sites of Skippers Canyon before landing on the valley floor of the Earnslaw Burn. The hanging glacier towers above, and in the warmer seasons countless waterfalls cascade down around you.

During the winter months* there are fewer waterfalls, but the glacier becomes more immense with the snowfall, and a close-up flyover reveals a deep, unearthly blue glow within. 

The Earnslaw Burn has been featured on:

• Lord of the Rings
• Travel Guides Australia
• The Summit  

*In winter months (June – August) the Earnslaw Burn does not have as many fast flowing waterfalls compared to our spring and summer months (September – March). It is still a stunning and magical location to visit during winter as there is usually extra snow coverage on the glacier and throughout the valley.

60 minute experience

Earnslaw Burn landing

Adult (12+): $840 per person

Child (3-11): $590 per person

Infant: (0-2): $420 per person

Prices are valid from 1 October 2023 - 30 September 2025. On our shared departures, you may be in a helicopter with up to 9 people.

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): $4,200 per helicopter

Airbus H130 or twin-engine Squirrel (up to 6 passengers): $5,040 per helicopter

BK (up to 9 passengers depending): $6,720 per helicopter

Prices are valid from 1 October 2023 - 30 September 2025.

We offer complimentary return transport from downtown Queenstown, near the Athol Street bus stop. Please make sure to book this in addition to your flight experience. If you are self-driving, we are based in Frankton and we have plenty of parking available.

• 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 booking. • 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 Heliworks Queenstown base in Frankton. • 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 NZ 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.

More of our Favourite Flights

  60 minute experience   Earnslaw Burn landing   From: $840 per person

Our most popular experience. The Earnslaw Burn boasts an incredible hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls. It’s our favourite spot – and a favourite for our guests too.

Earnslaw Burn Picnic

  90 minute experience   Earnslaw Burn landing   From: $940 per person

A picnic like no other: Mt Earnslaw Glacier towers above you, the air tastes crisp and fresh, the sun sparkles off the white snow with the flow of waterfalls around you.

• Earnslaw Burn Explorer

  75 minute experience   2 Landings   From: $990 per person

This incredible helicopter experience takes you to our exclusive landing site – the mighty Earnslaw Burn and one other incredible landing location.

Fiordland’s Finest

  2.5 hour experience   3 Scenic landings   From: $1,690 per person

Beat the crowds with our signature flight that includes Milford Sound, Lake Quill, Mt Tutoko, Skippers Canyon and our exclusive landing location, the Earnslaw Burn.

• Milford Sound Explorer

  1.5 hour experience   2 Scenic landings   From: $1,410 per person

If you are short on time but want to see all the beauty of Milford Sound and the Earnslaw Burn, then this is the trip for you.

Milford Sound Heli-Cruise-Heli + Earnslaw Burn

  5 hour experience   3 Scenic landings   From: $1,685 per person

The ultimate Milford Sound Heli-Cruise-Heli experience: heli flight, Milford boat cruise, a picnic lunch and a landing in the world-famous Earnslaw Burn!

Doubtful & Milford Sounds

  3.5 hour experience   4 Scenic landings   From: $12,280 per charter

See Fiordland in all its beauty. Includes Milford and Doubtful Sound, the hidden valley of Campbell’s Kingdom, Lake Quill and our exclusive spot, the Earnslaw Burn.

SCENIC FLIGHTS

• Fiordland’s Finest
• Remarkables Scenic
• Snow Landing
• Glacier Express

DESTINATIONS

• Earnslaw Burn
• Milford Sound
• Fiordland & Doubtful Sound
• Filming and Photography
• Long lining
• Helicopter Fire Fighting
• Search and Rescue
• Aerial Sluicing
• Farming and Conservation
• Wedding Day Services

GROUPS & EVENTS

• Private Charters
• Our Helicopters

CONTACT Email: [email protected] Freephone: 0800 464 354 Phone: +64 3 441 4011

LOCATION 64 Grant Road, Frankton Queenstown, New Zealand

© 2024 Action Helicopters Ltd Website by Webstudio

BORN OF A PASSIONATE DESIRE

BREATHTAKING HELICOPTER TOURS OF QUEENSTOWN, MILFORD SOUND AND FIORDLAND. SEE NEW ZEALAND'S GLACIERS, THE SOUTHERN LAKES, AND NATIONAL PARKS LIKE NEVER BEFORE.

In 1986, Louisa Patterson (nicknamed Choppy) realised her dream of unveiling New Zealand's hidden gems to adventurous travelers. Today, we proudly present the best Queenstown helicopter rides in New Zealand, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of this remarkable region. Experience soaring through the mountains, landing on pristine glaciers and secluded beaches, and exploring rainforests.

EXPERIENCES

Our scenic adventures are only limited by your imagination so if you’re seeking something beyond the regular try our tailor-made flights, we can deliver a New Zealand helicopter experience of a lifetime

Destinations

Our selection of relaxed and interpretive experiences distil the essence of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery whilst immersing you in the natural history of the area

Bespoke Experiences

Tell us what your travel style is and we'll create your Bespoke Experience giving you the "best of the best"

Discover Queenstown

Renowned for adventure sports, and a base for exploring the region’s vineyards

On the shores of Lake Wakatipu , Queenstown enjoys four distinct seasons with summer being December to February and winter June, July and August. Close by the city is an abundance of hidden secrets, rich in history from the early Maori and the gold rush eras to the glaciers and life on the High Country. Enjoy private helicopter access to local conservation areas, alpine lakes, mountains and glaciers. Deliver the paper to a high country farmer, drop in on the wineries or visit a local character at a gold miner’s cottage. Choose an exclusive or shared Queenstown helicopter tour of your choice. Select an adventure from our favourites or ask us to tailor-make a tour for you.

On the shores of Lake Wakatipu , Queenstown enjoys four distinct seasons with summer being December to February and winter June, July and August. Close by the city is an abundance of hidden secrets, rich in history from the early Maori and the...

Discover Milford Sound

Majestic milford sound.

The fiord is home to fur seal colonies, penguins and dolphins

New Zealand’s climate is dominated by two main geographical features, the mountains and the sea. From the west, the saturated weather pattern off the Tasman Sea rises up to cross the massive Southern Alps and dumps all its moisture in Fiordland. This huge rainfall gives this region its unique character – rain forests, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Fiords carved by the glaciers dominate the scenery until reaching the wild and windswept west coast. Our helicopter tours of Milford Sound are suited to this diverse terrain, ensuring enhanced visibility and greater safety in this incredible landscape.

New Zealand’s climate is dominated by two main geographical features, the mountains and the sea. From the west, the saturated weather pattern off the Tasman Sea rises up to cross the massive Southern Alps and dumps all its moisture in...

Discover Fiordland

Dusky & doubtful sounds.

Experience the Over The Top delight in exploring this inaccessible area

Native forest, glacial-hewn valleys, towering mountains and majestic and primeval scenery have afforded this area UNESCO World Heritage status. Ancient animals and plants of Gondwanaland still exist here. The kea, the only alpine parrot in the world, lives in the park, as does the rare and endangered takahe, a large flightless bird. Experience the Over The Top delight of exploring this inaccessible area. As with all Over The Top experiences our trips are leisurely – your time is our time. Numbers are strictly limited to this untouched world – Fiordland.

Native forest, glacial-hewn valleys, towering mountains and majestic and primeval scenery have afforded this area UNESCO World Heritage status. Ancient animals and plants of Gondwanaland still exist here. The kea, the only alpine parrot in the...

Over The Top is the only Queenstown company to have consistently been awarded the International Helicopter Operator Safety Award. In addition to international recognition, the NZHA (New Zealand Helicopter Association) has recently awarded Over The Top for its long-standing safety record.

Safety is Paramount | We operate a Safety First Culture

Our Safety Measures

Over the Top Golf

Nestled at 4500ft, this par 3-golf hole is possibly the world’s most picturesque. Fly, drive and putt – a must-do experience for all golfers. Consider this the 19th hole – we can pick you up from local golf courses after you’ve played a full game.

Find out more

Milford Ultimate

Stroll on a deserted beach, soar amongst mountains, and dine at an alpine lake suspended above Fiordland. Learn of the age old glaciers and prehistoric rainforest in a habitat seldom frequented by man. This relaxed and interpretive expendition distils the essence of New Zealand's most dramatic scenery.

Some Of Our Testimonials

Absolutely amazing experience with the flight to and from Milford. From the team at HQ to our pilot, Davy, who was a super guy with tons of local knowledge, we felt really comfortable and had the best views of the area from above including clear...

Nicole Waites

Absolutely amazing

Wow! This was an experience of a lifetime. Our pilot Ben was funny, engaging, and knowledgable -- and a fantastic photographer. He also took the time to show up incredible sites, including landing near a glacial lake, a beach at the Milford Sound, and...

Ellen Smith Rose

What an experience! Wonderful weather, a pilot who took great care of us, we flew over the southern Alps for almost two hours. A wonder not to be missed. The welcome and organization was above the “top” as its name suggests. Many thanks...

Above the "top"

Connect with us

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Blue Hangar, 10 Tex Smith Lane, Queenstown Airport, New Zealand. Free Phone: 0800 123 359 Phone: +64 3 442 2233

Queenstown scenic helicopter flight and alpine landing (full review)

Posted on Last updated: May 30, 2023

Categories New Zealand

Experience the thrill of snowy footsteps on a breathtaking mountaintop with the Queenstown scenic helicopter flight!

On the fourth day of our Queenstown adventure, the highlight was the Queenstown scenic helicopter flight and alpine landing tour. The Helicopter Line , our tour company, has arranged to pick us up directly from our hotel, the Colonial Village Motel .

Although various websites provide comprehensive information about helicopter rides in Queenstown, I want to immerse you in our personal experience, accompanied by a vivid collection of photographs that we have taken.  

Watch the video we shot during the helicopter flight. It is at the end of this article. 👇👇

Getting prepared for the helicopter flight

Our journey commenced at the helicopter base near Queenstown Airport, where we were immediately captivated by the anticipation in the air. 

We proceeded to the registration counter before being guided to a comfortable waiting area. Handbags and selfie sticks were not permitted on board, but there are secure lockers to store our belongings, or we just leave them at the back of the counter.

We donned our headphones as we prepared for takeoff, as the pilot would provide informative commentary throughout the flight. It required attentive listening to catch every detail with the thunderous hum of the helicopter’s engine. 

The magnificent view of the Remarkable mountain range

The flight sweeps us above the picturesque Remarkable mountain range, granting us a vantage point to behold the glistening shores of Lake Wakatipu and the sprawling beauty of Queenstown city.

Alpine landing

The flight lasted over half an hour, including the alpine landing.

We immersed ourselves in an extraordinary panorama with majestic rocks, towering cliffs, and a blanket of deep, pristine snow as we touched down.

The pilot’s expertise guides us to the most optimal landing location, hidden away in these remote and inaccessible spots only a helicopter can reach.

It was a memorable experience to step onto the untouched, half-foot-deep snow. During the summer, you can expect rugged terrain that will leave you in awe.

The spot where we landed proved perfect, allowing us to bask in the full splendor of Queenstown’s winter landscapes.

We reluctantly left the alpine paradise behind and reboarded the helicopter. Our pilot took us for another glimpse of Queenstown’s view before returning to the base.

Embarking on this Queenstown scenic helicopter flight was an invaluable experience. It provides a unique opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking sights of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown from high above the clouds.

Watch the video we shot during the helicopter flight 👇👇

Speaking of which, we also upload a video we shot during the flight. Please click the image below to bring you to our YouTube channel (shot in high definition!). You may also want to check out our trip to Queenstown Hill and the Lake Wakatipu cruise .

Mt Cook Tour / Heli Hike

A day tour from Queenstown to Mt Cook including the a Heli Hike on the Tasman Glacier.

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• Scenic helicopter flight over snowy mountains

Experience the excitement of walking on NZ's biggest glacier.

On this premium, small group guided tour to Mount Cook, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique alpine scenery of the Southern Alps. Your journey begins in Queenstown and takes you into the stunning Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, a place known for its snow-covered peaks, impressive glaciers, and New Zealand’s highest mountain.

Departing  7 am from Queenstown, travel in style and comfort in one of our Mercedes Sprinter van with a maximum of 16 people, offering panoramic windows for stunning views. Your guide will host you throughout the day, providing entertaining commentary as you journey through the remarkable landscape.

Enjoy the sights of central South Island, visiting Cromwell and the scenic Lindis Pass, before making a brief stop in Omarama, a charming village, where you can purchase refreshments and lunch if needed. From here we continue along the bright turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, entering the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park around midday.

This option includes the incredible Heli Hike experience departing at 12:30pm

During your time in Mount Cook, take a helicopter up onto the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest glacier. Spend two hours exploring the nooks and crannies of this incredible palce while passionate guides share their knowledge of the ever-changing environment. This is an out-of-this-world experience and a true New Zealand must-do!

Tasman Glacier Heli Hike is operated by Inflight and Mount Cook Glacier Guides and is 3 hours in duration. There is a weight limit of 120kg (with equipment) and moderate fitness and hiking ability is required.

Once you return to Mt Cook Airport, your Altitude Tours guide will meet you and start the return journey back to Queenstown, arriving at approximately 7:30pm.

Please note: Heli Hike is subject to availability at the time of booking and our team will reconfirm with you once confirmed. This is a weather dependent activity.

Tour Overview.

A bucket list new zealand experience..

This option includes the Tasman Glacier Heli Hike experience flying you to New Zealand’s biggest glacier and walking across the ice terrain

Travel in style

Our Mercedes vans are fully equipped with complimentary wifi and panoramic windows for superior viewing so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Mt Cook Tour FAQ's

How long does the mt cook tour take.

The full-day trip takes approximately 12 hours from Queenstown. This allows us to make plenty of stops en route to ensure you enjoy the journey, with 3.5 hours in Mount Cook Village where you will head out on the Heli Hike Experience.

What activities are included?

This package includes the Glacier Explorers experience at 12:30 pm (Oct-Apr).

The Heli Hike will take up all of the time spent in Mt Cook Village on this day tour.

What are the important things to know about Glacier Explorer?

Your Altitude Tours guide will transport you to the Mt Cook Airport where you will check in for your Heli Hike.

The Alpine Guide team will take you through a safety briefing and provide you with the necessary equipment before boarding a helicopter and flying up onto the glacier. You will be provided with boots and crampons.

The whole experience is approximately 3 hours, and you can expect to spend approximately two hours on the glacier. You will return by helicopter back to Mt Cook Village.

There is a weight limit of 120kg (including equipment) and guests must have moderate fitness and hiking ability.

iPads or selfie sticks are not allowed on board for safety.

What do I need to bring with me and wear on this day tour?

• An extra warm layer of clothing
• Leggings or light trousers (not denim/jeans)
• Sunblock & sunglasses
• Waterproof jacket
• Suitable walking shoes

What do you recommend we do for lunch?

If you choose to do this package with the Heli Hike, this experience will take up all of the time spent in Mt Cook Village with no additional time to go for lunch.

We recommend purchasing food in Omarama on the way or bringing food from Queenstown at the start of the day. You will need to eat lunch in the van prior to arriving in Mt Cook Village.

From Queenstown to Mt Cook what stops will we make along the drive?

We don’t want to give too much away! The drive from Queenstown to Mt Cook is stunning and there are plenty of scenic stops enroute, your guide knows the best spots and will choose these on the day.

Where do you pick up and drop off from in Queenstown?

We pick up from select Queenstown hotels and the main bus stop routes in Queenstown town centre and along Frankton Road. When booking, type in your accommodation and it will suggest the closest bus stop. If it doesn’t come up just check in with us and we’ll let you know where is closest for you!

What happens in the case of poor weather?

As this is a weather-dependent tour, if there is a risk of adverse weather conditions that will impact the operation of the tour, you will be contacted the day prior to your trip to explore alternative options.

There may be a risk of the weather coming in on the day, and your guide will keep you updated, if needed.

Why can't I reserve a specific seat on the van?

Due to this being one of our most popular tours and wanting to be fair to all who join us we do not offer reserved seating. If you have a request we will do our best to accommodate but we cannot guarantee.

HUMBLE BRAGS

Multi-award winning tour operator., more epic tours., milford sound scenic tour & cruise, milford sound tour, cruise & scenic flight, milford sound tour, cruise & helicopter, milford sound private tours, best of queenstown tour, glenorchy scenic tour.

Local Recommendations from our My Guide Queenstown team

Explore the world like locals.

• Experiences

My Guide to Queenstown

What's on in queenstown, accommodation in queenstown, experiences in queenstown, restaurants in queenstown, nightlife in queenstown, things to do in queenstown, transport in queenstown, venues in queenstown, car hire in queenstown, wine in queenstown, golf in queenstown, skiing in queenstown, wellness in queenstown, shopping in queenstown, services in queenstown, travel articles, regional info, useful info.

Mount Cook Premium Guided Day Tour

Discover the wonders of Mount Cook on a full-day tour from Queenstown. Enjoy a guided scenic tour to Mt Cook and 3.5 hours of free time to explore Aoraki National Park on your own.

Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

Experience the majestic Milford Sound on a day trip including a 2-hour cruise and round-trip luxury bus transportation from Queenstown. Sit back, relax, look out for native wildlife and soak up the stunning scenery in Fiordland.

Lord Of The Rings Tour to Glenorchy

Take a magical journey into Middle Earth and explore the Lord of the Rings film locations from Queenstown to Glenorchy and beyond. Visit the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Mount Aspiring N.P.

Glenorchy and Paradise Scenic Half-Day Tour

Experience a magical half-day trip into Glenorchy and Paradise. View the Lord of the Rings movie locations, admire world-class scenery, and enjoy a Kiwi-style morning or afternoon tea.

Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour

A wine and food tour, where you can explore, taste, and savor top wines at four wine-tasting experiences in Central Otago and indulge in lunch and platters at renowned local venues throughout the day.

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

Take in the stunning views and wonderful wildlife as you cruise around Milford Sound. Relax on board with tea and coffee, enjoying the commentary, and make the most of the photo ops as you go.

Milford Sound Full-Day Trip

Visit Milford Sound by premium coach for a 2-hour nature cruise and picnic lunch. Enjoy the scenery, informative commentary, and photo stops before sailing close to the fiord's waterfalls.

Matariki Arrowtown Kā-Muriwai

Matariki Arrowtown Kā-Muriwai returns on Friday 28th June 2024

Half-Day 4WD Lord Of the Rings Discovery Tour

Visit all "Lord of the Rings" locations in Queenstown and Arrowtown on a small group, expertly-guided half-day tour that includes gold panning and afternoon tea.

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Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tastings

Discover three wine regions on a scenic day tour from Queenstown. Enjoy a relaxed day of fine cuisine and good company, sampling local cheeses and tasting premium cool climate wines.

From Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

Explore Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park on a day trip. Cruise across Lake Manapouri, coach over the breathtaking Wilmot Pass, and discover Doubtful Sound on a 3-hour cruise.

Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours

Discover Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Gibbston Valley at your own pace as you experience its scenic locations, iconic adventure activities, and the finest craft beers, wine, and cuisine in the region.

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From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Discover New Zealand’s best scenic highlight with a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown. Glide along the tranquil fjord, viewing amazing wildlife, dramatic waterfalls and the majestic Mitre Peak.

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From Arrowtown: Scenic Valley of the Vines Bike & Wine Tour

Enjoy some local wine and a beginner-friendly bike ride on the Twin Rivers Trail. Take in beautiful scenery while enjoying wine and cheese and relax with shuttle transport to Arrowtown.

Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

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Explore the Mount Cook area and hike the famous Hooker Valley Track on this guided day trip from Queenstown. Admire the stunning views as you drive through popular sites like Lindis Pass and Cromwell.

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Local News & Articles

The Ultimate Guide to Gold Panning in Queenstown

This ultimate guide will take you on a journey through the intriguing world of gold panning in Queenstown, from understanding the basics to uncovering top locations, mastering techniques, and ultimately deciding what to do with your precious finds....

20 Must Do Activities in Queenstown

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In this article, we explore 20 must-do activities that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.  ...

Top 10 Unforgettable Night Activities in Queenstown

Queenstown is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities but also for its vibrant nightlife.  When the sun sets, this charming town comes alive with a plethora of exciting night activities that cater to every traveler...

Our Guide getting from Dunedin to Queenstown

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey from Dunedin to Queenstown? Our guide highlights all the best bits along the way as your drive from Dunedin to Queenstown....

Exploring Walter Peak Queenstown: A Guide to the Iconic Destination

Located in the picturesque region of Queenstown, Walter Peak is a destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and activities for all interests....

Discover The Best Restaurants In Queenstown

From fine dining to unique culinary experiences, and even vegetarian and vegan options, Queenstown has it all.  In this article, we have rounded up the best restaurants in Queenstown that you absolutely should not miss during your visit....

The Ultimate Guide from Queenstown to Franz Josef

Are you planning a trip from Queenstown to Franz Josef?  In this ultimate guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about this scenic journey.  From understanding the route to sightseeing opportunities along the way, we've got you c...

Exploring the Best Bike Trails in Wanaka

With its stunning landscapes, diverse trail options for all skill levels, and a thriving cycling community, Wanaka is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts.  Whether you're a mountain biking veteran or a beginner, there's something for everyone in Wanaka's b...

Visiting The Iconic Wanaka Tree

Located on the southern shores of Lake Wanaka, the Wanaka Tree has become a symbol of New Zealand's natural beauty, capturing the hearts of photographers, tourists, and locals alike. ...

Regional Guides

Arrowtown is an old gold mining town and a real slice of New Zealand history.  Situated, just 20km northwest of Queenstown, at the base of the Arrow River, the charming settlement of Arrowto...

Cardrona is a popular ski resort situated off the Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wanaka.  Leaving Wanaka, it's a 20 minute drive while it's a slightly longer 35 minute drive from Queenstown....

Central Otago

The rugged landscape of Central Otago is a chance to get out of Queenstown and explore a bit of 'Old New Zealand'.  We've picked out a few of the towns that are no more than 90 minutes drive from...

In keeping with its individual nature, the name 'Fiordland' was adapted from the Scandinavian word 'fjord', emphasising the area's uniqueness.  It is a wild, untamed landscape; nature at its best...

Frankton is situated at the north-eastern end of Lake Wakatipu off highway 6a that runs from Cromwell into Queenstown.  The suburb enjoys views of Lake Wakatipu and is in close proximity to ...

Positioned between Queenstown and Cromwell, the Gibbston wine region is a must for anyone who enjoys a tipple or two in the sunshine.  With fertile vineyards irrigated by the Kawarau River, which...

Sitting at the very top of Lake Wakatipu, 46km north of Queenstown, is the small village of Glenorchy.  The drive to Glenorchy is one of the most spectacular in the world and worth the trip alone.  ...

Jack's Point

A 15 minute drive from Queenstown (as you head towards Kingston), Jack's Point is a 1200 hectare settlement that includes a championship golf course, a restaurant and some truly 'remarkable' walking t...

Kelvin Heights

Kelvin Heights is a residential area, 5 minutes drive from Frankton and 20 minutes from the centre of Queenstown.  With a world-class golf course, wonderful views of Lake Wakatipu and a greater s...

Sitting pretty at the bottom of Lake Wakatipu, Kingston lies 50km south of Queenstown, along a stunning road (SH-6) that takes in the Remarkable Mountains on one side, and the shores of the lake on th...

Lake Hawea can be a surprise to travellers making their way from the west coast to Wanaka and onto Queenstown.  This beautiful lake covers 141 square kilometres, with calm, flat water reflecting ...

Lake Hayes is a tranquil and beautiful lake that's just 15 minutes drive from downtown Queenstown.  The lake attracts walkers, runners, and cyclists who are all drawn to the natural beauty of the...

Otago Rail Trail

One of the region's most popular tourist attractions, the Otago Central Rail Trail is a 150km-long network of cycle and walking tracks.  The route roughly follows the old railway that was constru...

Queenstown Centre

Edging onto the dramatic Lake Wakatipu and overlooked by the spectacular Remarkables mountains, Queenstown is a compact town that by day, offers views at every turn, and by night a lively atmosphere i...

Queenstown Lakes

The crowning jewel of the Queenstown area is the magnificent Lake Wakatipu, though there are many other lakes in Queenstown and the surrounding areas of Wanaka, Fiordland and Central Otago.  E...

Lake Wanaka lies in the heart of the Otago Lakes region and, at 300m above sea level, is New Zealand's fourth largest lake and the gateway to the West Coast glacier region and Mount Aspiring National ...

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