Queenstown · QUEENSTOWN SCENIC FLIGHTS
From the air the Southern Alps stop being scenery and start being geography. These 15 flights compare planes and helicopters, glacier landings and the Milford runs, on price, air time and what cloud does to each.
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise beneath waterfalls, enjoy lunch, and return by a scenic route in about five hours.
“Milford Sound is worth the trip! The weather was great for the flight. Seeing the mountains and land from above is wonderful. The cruise out Milford Sound is very nice. I’d love to see it again in different seasons.”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise to the Tasman Sea, and return over the Southern Alps on a weather-dependent half-day trip.
“Highly recommend this great way to experience Milford Sound. The flight allows you catch some breathtaking scenery you otherwise would not see.”
Travel Queenstown to Milford Sound by luxury van, cruise beneath waterfalls, then fly back over Fiordland on a small-group day tour.
“Spectacular. The drive to the sound had great photo stops and the sound is definitely worth the drive.”
Fly above Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Southern Alps, then land at a pilot-picked alpine viewpoint on this 25-minute helicopter tour.
“Thoroughly enjoyed our flight. Danny is an awesome pilot/photographer When weather wasn't looking great for our planned flight they managed to arrange an alternative”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound over glaciers and Southern Alps, then cruise beneath Mitre Peak with chances to see seals, penguins, and dolphins.
“The flight to Milford Sound was one of the highlights of our trip in NZ. Absolutely stunning views from the plane. The pilot was professional and friendly. We also liked the cruise but it was less breathtaking in our view. Everything was well organized. The flight was canceled on the day we initially booked due to bad weather conditions but we were able to easily rebook for the next day and had amazing weather then. Recommended and worth the price.”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise beneath Mitre Peak, see waterfalls and wildlife, and return by a different alpine route.
“This experience left us in awe from beginning to end. The panoramic flight was simply fabulous, soaring over dramatic peaks and endless wilderness felt like stepping into another world. Milford Sound itself is a natural masterpiece, and the boat cruise added a peaceful and breathtaking dimension to the day. Everything was well organized, smooth, and full of wonder. We left truly uplifted and would go back any time. A must-do in New Zealand!”
Fly from Queenstown to Mt Aspiring glaciers, Earnslaw Burn and Skippers Canyon, with a possible glacier landing and expert pilot commentary.
“Once in a lifetime experience!! Our pilot Alfie was also involved with the Lord of the Rings shoot and pointed out locations on the way. If you do not have time to visit Fox or Franz Josef glaciers then this is a great option from Queenstown. It was the highlight of my trip. The glacier was surreal and the whole flight path was surreal!!!”
Ride a coach into Fiordland, cruise Milford Sound, then fly over glaciers and alpine lakes to Queenstown on this full-day tour.
“Fantastic experience. The views on the stops down to Fiordland National Park just keep getting better. Our guide Chris was terrific, full of facts about the park as well as NZ generally. Highly recommend this grip”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise beneath waterfalls, and return over the Southern Alps in a weather-dependent half-day tour.
“The beauty of the scenery is beyond description. NZ is an amazing country and this region is spectacular. The pilot was cordial and professional as well as the rest of the staff. In general, everything was exceptional. Thank you for such a great service.”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise the fiord, and land on a glacier or alpine ridge in a small six-person group.
“Awesome tour, nice staff. The glacier was a highlight of our trip but the view from the chopper was unreal”
Review of Queenstown’s 25-minute helicopter flight to the Remarkables, with hotel transfers, pilot commentary, alpine landing, price, and practical tips.
“Landing with my Beautiful wife on the mountain and snow was wonderful and special moment , we enjoyed the whole trip as action speaks louder than words”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise its cliffs and waterfalls, then land on a glacier in Fiordland National Park.
“A once in a lifetime experience. The scenery is incredible to view from above and the cruise through Milford sound is also a great way to appreciate the beauty. The helicopter ride is very smooth and quieter than expected. We thoroughly enjoyed everything about the amazing tour from beginning to end. Our helicopter pilot Alfie has been flying for 40 years, so we felt very safe at all times 🙏”
Fly from Queenstown to glacier country, spot Skippers Canyon and Earnslaw Burn, then land on snow in Mt Aspiring National Park.
“From the minute we were picked up to when we were dropped off we had a fantastic experence. The checkin was quick and the safety well explained. The flight, just amazing. We didn't feel rushed or frightened in any way. Alfie was an amazing pilot answering our questions and engaging the whole flight. I would highly recommend going.”
Fly from Queenstown to Jura Glacier for Southern Alps views, a snow landing, pilot commentary, and sweeping Rees and Dart Valley scenery.
“Flying over the glacier was great. To be able to be above all the mountains and see the valley’s was awesome”
Review of the Queenstown to Milford Sound coach, cruise and scenic flight, with route details, stops, food, weather advice and value tips.
“Lovely day out, we were swapped last minute for a different bus/boat and therefore a cold lunch but that was OK. Would have liked a slower more thorough safety check on the plane”
Pick a boat, a rotor, a track or a cellar door.
