Ready to explore Christchurch from above? Several helicopter tours lift off daily, offering bird’s-eye views of this beautiful New Zealand city.
I especially love the practical Heli-Jet combo – it packs both an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride and aerial city tour into 90 minutes. For time-conscious travelers, the 20-minute City Helicopter Flight delivers the essentials: spectacular cityscapes and key landmarks below.
Real aviation enthusiasts should consider the Youfly Trial Flight, where you’ll actually handle the controls alongside a pro instructor – it’s a memorable hands-on experience I highly recommend.
Let’s check out my top helicopter tour picks for Christchurch.
Key Points
- Christchurch Heli-Jet offers a unique 90-minute adventure combining a jet boat ride and scenic helicopter tour showcasing the Canterbury countryside and braided rivers.
- 20-Minute City Helicopter Flight provides panoramic views of Christchurch, including the Avon River and botanical gardens, with live English commentary from the pilot.
- Christchurch Helicopter Picnic includes a luxury food platter and sparkling wine during a scenic helicopter flight, with a weight limit of 221 lbs per passenger.
- Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour is a 20-minute flight highlighting the city’s iconic landmarks and natural landscapes, operated by Garden City Helicopters.
- Youfly Trial Flight – Fly a Helicopter offers an opportunity to fly a helicopter with a licensed CAA NZ instructor, with a maximum weight of 265 lbs and minimum height of 155 cm required.
Christchurch Heli-Jet – Helicopter and Jet Boat
The Christchurch Heli-Jet offers a thrilling combination of a jet boat ride and a scenic helicopter tour. This 90-minute adventure departs from Christchurch, allowing you to experience both the breathtaking aerial views of the Canterbury countryside and the excitement of jet boating on pristine braided rivers.
Suitable for families, locals, and visitors alike, this activity lets you tick off two bucket-list experiences in a single trip.
The tour includes a professional jet boat driver and licensed pilot, as well as food and drinks. However, there are some requirements – you’ll need a minimum of 2 people, and children aged 2-15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Plus, the total weight per passenger is capped at 221 lbs, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.
While not wheelchair accessible, the Christchurch Heli-Jet has received positive reviews, with travelers praising the professionalism of the company and the memorable nature of the experience.
Just be aware that the tour is weather-dependent, and may be canceled if conditions are unsuitable.
Read our full review: Christchurch Heli-Jet – Helicopter and Jet Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight
For a unique perspective on Christchurch, consider the 20-minute City Helicopter Flight. This activity offers panoramic views of the city, including the Avon River, botanical gardens, Cathedral, and new landmarks, as well as the Banks Peninsula and the Port of Lyttelton.
Priced from £15,617 per person, the flight is limited to 6 participants and features live English commentary from the pilot.
Booking is easy, with the option to reserve your spot with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, the activity is subject to weather conditions and requires a minimum of two fares to proceed.
Children under 4 and 18kg or less can fly for free on a paying adult’s lap.
Travelers have consistently given this experience a 5/5 rating, highlighting the pilot’s knowledge and the overall fantastic experience.
Don’t miss the chance to add this memorable helicopter flight to your Christchurch bucket list.
Read our full review: Christchurch: 20-Minutes City Helicopter Flight Review
Book now: Check availability
Christchurch Helicopter Picnic
Christchurch Helicopter Picnic lets you savor a complementary luxury food platter and small bottle of Melton Estate Summer Love sparkling wine while soaring over the city’s stunning landscapes.
The intimate and relaxing environment offers beautiful views, with the helicopter taking off and landing at the Garden City Helicopters’ meeting point at 73 Grays Road, Yaldhurst.
The activity is accessible to most travelers, but you’ll need to advise the pilot of any medical conditions. The total weight per passenger is limited to 221 lbs, and infants (0-2 years) can fly free on a fare-paying passenger’s lap.
Alcohol consumption is restricted to those 18 and older, and ID may be required.
Dress warmly and wear covered shoes, as the landing site can be chilly. Dietary requirements should be provided in advance.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available for flexibility.
Read our full review: Christchurch Helicopter Picnic Review
Book now: Check availability
Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour
Take a thrilling 20-minute helicopter flight over Christchurch and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the city’s iconic landmarks and natural landscapes.
Operated by Garden City Helicopters, this scenic tour provides live pilot commentary and showcases key sights, including the damaged Christchurch Cathedral, the Transitional Cathedral, the new sports stadium, Lyttelton Harbour, the Port Hills, and the suburbs of Sumner and Redcliffs.
Priced from $198.68 per person, the tour can accommodate up to 6 travelers per flight.
While some reviews express disappointment with the tour’s duration and views compared to other activities, many highlight the pilot’s expertise and the overall enjoyment of the scenic views, especially those of the city’s post-earthquake urban regeneration and natural surroundings.
With wheelchair accessibility and proximity to public transport, this helicopter tour offers a unique perspective of Christchurch’s dynamic landscape.
Read our full review: Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Youfly Trial Flight – Fly a Helicopter
Soar above the Canterbury plains and take control of a helicopter on the YouFly Trial Flight. This 94% recommended experience by 16 travelers offers the chance to fly a helicopter with a professional, licensed CAA NZ instructor.
During the flight, you’ll receive a full safety briefing and explanation of the helicopter controls before taking to the skies over the certified aircraft training area.
Capture stunning photos and videos of the Canterbury landscape below as you navigate the controls. Keep in mind that the flight is weather-dependent, so be sure to reconfirm your booking 24 hours prior to departure.
To participate, you’ll need to meet the passenger requirements, including a maximum weight of 265 lbs, minimum height of 155 cm, and a moderate level of physical fitness.
Priced at $216.74 per person with a lowest price guarantee, this private tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Secure your spot now and pay later for this unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Youfly Trial Flight – Fly a Helicopter Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Christchurch offers a range of captivating helicopter experiences. From city flights to scenic tours and picnics, you’ll soar above breathtaking landscapes and enjoy unique perspectives of the region. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or an aviation enthusiast, there’s an option to suit your interests and budget. Consider your preferences, and book the helicopter adventure that will make your Christchurch visit truly unforgettable.