Frequently Asked Questions
I've never flown in a helicopter. Is it scary?
No. It's like being a passenger in a chauffeured car. We take a lot of first-timers flying, and they come back from their flight awestruck and wondering what they were worried about.
I don't like flying in small planes so there is no way I will get on board a helicopter.
Our five-place helicopter is very smooth and stable in the air. And Richard your pilot is very experienced in reading weather patterns, which means he is good at avoiding bumpy areas, or al least be able to warn you of any unavoidable updrafts.
Is there an age limit?
There is no age limit for our scenic flights. In fact, families love experiencing a helicopter flight together.
Toddlers under 4 years of age fly for just $75 on an adult's lap (maximum of 2 under fours per flight).
At the other end of the scale, we frequently take less able passengers for a flight who enjoy the experience of seeing a part of Central Otago which they used to hike in their younger days, or just simply have never seen.
To aid embarking and disembarking the helicopter, we have a ramp to ease access for less mobile passengers.
Toddlers under 4 years of age fly for just $75 on an adult's lap (maximum of 2 under fours per flight).
At the other end of the scale, we frequently take less able passengers for a flight who enjoy the experience of seeing a part of Central Otago which they used to hike in their younger days, or just simply have never seen.
To aid embarking and disembarking the helicopter, we have a ramp to ease access for less mobile passengers.
What if the weather is no good on the day?
We fully understand that a scenic flight is supposed to be an enjoyable experience. If the weather is not suitable on the day of your flight, we will be liaising with you in the lead up to your scheduled flight date and find a suitable alternative that fits within your travel dates.
Are we under strict time pressure?
While we do run flights to a schedule, we pride ourselves in paying attention to each individual group, and making you feel special. We love meeting people and forging relationships. We love it when passengers leave as friends, with friendships carrying on beyond our first encounter. But we do expect passengers to adhere to their scheduled flight time and to be on time for their check in as worst case scenario, we can't refund you if you miss your flight.
What are your three favourite experiences?
1. The Cromwell Basin flight with Alpine Landing because you learn so much about the area's history, and get stunning views from the alpine landing site. And you can combine it with a winery lunch, or other activities, such as Highlands Motorsport Park and Goldfields Jetboat.
2. A guided Heli-Bike trip because you get to experience 100% Pure Central Otago outdoors.
3. The Heli-Jeep-Wine tour is an all-day experience showcasing the Central Otago wine region, combining the helicopter and an open-top Jeep Wrangler as your mode of transport. The package includes Exclusive Vineyard experiences, vineyard lunch and wine tastings.
2. A guided Heli-Bike trip because you get to experience 100% Pure Central Otago outdoors.
3. The Heli-Jeep-Wine tour is an all-day experience showcasing the Central Otago wine region, combining the helicopter and an open-top Jeep Wrangler as your mode of transport. The package includes Exclusive Vineyard experiences, vineyard lunch and wine tastings.
What is different about your Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-Fly package?
Our Cromwell location means that you get to see more of NZ's stunning landscape from the air en route to Milford Sound. We have purposefully teamed up with Southern Discoveries' Discover More Cruise as it is Milford Sound's longest cruise on offer.
Southern Discoveries' catamaran is a very stable craft, making the journey an enjoyable outing. In addition, the Discover More cruise has the highest staff to passenger ratio of any Milford Sound cruise, as well as having two dedicated Nature Guides on board.
And to finish off the experience, a visit to the Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is included. An optional extra is a guided kayaking trip through the Harrison Cove.
Southern Discoveries' catamaran is a very stable craft, making the journey an enjoyable outing. In addition, the Discover More cruise has the highest staff to passenger ratio of any Milford Sound cruise, as well as having two dedicated Nature Guides on board.
And to finish off the experience, a visit to the Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is included. An optional extra is a guided kayaking trip through the Harrison Cove.
Is the heli-mountain-biking really extreme downhill riding?
No. We have a variety of routes to cater different levels of biking experience. If you can confidently ride a bike, this is for you. We do not guide routes above Level 3, which are classed as Intermediate.
What is a Selfride Heli-Bike trip?
A Selfride Heli-Bike trip is a supported heli-bike trip but without a guide. We consult with you about the different route options to choose a suitable one for your group's experience level, we give you the route map and track descriptions, we provide a packed lunch, and we pick you up by vehicle at the end of your trip.
How do I get to Cromwell?
The easiest and most flexible option is to drive yourself. Hire cars are available at reasonable rates and you get to explore more of our beautiful region - check out www.cromwell.org.nz for inspiration.
Another option is to make use of public transport buses, such as Ritchies and Intercity. Though do check with them directly for their latest timetables, especially post-Covid-19.
Another option is to make use of public transport buses, such as Ritchies and Intercity. Though do check with them directly for their latest timetables, especially post-Covid-19.
Do you pick up from Cromwell?
Yes, we offer complimentary pick ups from Cromwell by prior arrangement.
Do you pick up from Queenstown or Wanaka?
By prior arrangement, we can organise a pick up from Queenstown or Wanaka. Please contact us so we can provide you with a quote.
Want to know more about our terms and conditions?
Check out our Trade Policies page.
My question hasn't been answered.
That's easy - just email us and we'll gladly answer it for you. You can reach us on info@heliview.co.nz.