The Earnslaw Burn helicopter tour offers a breathtaking aerial experience over one of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. This tour takes visitors on a journey through the majestic Southern Alps, showcasing the spectacular Earnslaw Burn glacier, cascading waterfalls, and pristine alpine scenery. With exclusive landing rights and expert pilot commentary, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and Lord of the Rings fans alike.
What is the Price Range for an Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour?
The cost of an Earnslaw Burn helicopter tour varies depending on the duration and type of experience:
- Earnslaw Burn Express:
- Duration: 60 minutes
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Price: $840 per person
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Earnslaw Burn Picnic:
- Duration: 90 minutes
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Price: $940 per person
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75-minute experience with 2 landings:
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Price: $990 per person
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1.5 hour experience with 2 scenic landings:
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Price: $1,410 per person
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2.5 hour experience with 3 scenic landings:
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Price: $1,690 per person
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5 hour Milford Sound Heli-Cruise-Heli experience:
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Price: $1,685 per person
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Earnslaw Burn Heli Hike:
- Duration: 3.5-4 hours
- Price: $1,375 per person
It’s important to note that prices may vary depending on the season and availability. While there are no specific discounts mentioned for early bookings, it’s always worth checking with tour operators for any current promotions.
How Long Does an Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour Last?
The duration of an Earnslaw Burn helicopter tour depends on the specific package chosen:
Tour Package | Flight Duration | Total Experience Time |
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Earnslaw Burn Express | 60 minutes | Up to 2 hours (including transfers) |
Earnslaw Burn Picnic | 90 minutes | Includes picnic and exploration time |
75-minute experience | 75 minutes | Includes two scenic landings |
1.5 hour experience | 90 minutes | Includes two scenic landings |
2.5 hour experience | 150 minutes | Includes three scenic landings |
Milford Sound Heli-Cruise-Heli | N/A | 5 hours total experience |
Earnslaw Burn Heli Hike | 20-25 minutes flying | 3.5-4 hours total experience |
The Earnslaw Burn Heli Hike, for example, includes 20-25 minutes of flying time, 1.5-2 hours of hiking, and 1-1.5 hours for a picnic and exploring the area.
What Do Customers Say About the Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour?
While specific customer reviews are not detailed in the available sources, general feedback and satisfaction levels are overwhelmingly positive:
- Scenery: Customers rave about the spectacular views of the hanging glacier, cascading waterfalls, and the recognizable landscapes from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
- Exclusive Access: Many appreciate the exclusive landing rights held by Heliworks Queenstown, allowing for unique photo opportunities and experiences.
- Pilot Commentary: The informative and engaging commentary provided by pilots is frequently mentioned as a highlight of the tour.
- Overall Experience: On platforms like Everything Queenstown, the Earnslaw Burn helicopter tour boasts a high satisfaction rate, with 93% of new customers reporting a good or excellent experience.
It’s worth noting that during winter months, the waterfalls may not be as vigorous as in other seasons, which could affect the overall visual impact for some visitors.
How Can I Book an Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour?
Booking an Earnslaw Burn helicopter tour is straightforward and can be done through various platforms:
- Online Booking:
- Heliworks Queenstown website
- Everything Queenstown platform
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GetYourGuide and other tour operators
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Cancellation Policies:
- Most operators offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
- Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a 50% fee.
- No-shows are typically charged 100% of the tour cost.
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Weather-related cancellations by the operator usually result in no fees charged.
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Payment Options:
- Some operators don’t require payment until the time of the flight.
- A 2% surcharge may apply for credit and contactless transactions.
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Certain platforms allow you to reserve now and pay later.
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Booking Tips:
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
- Check for any current promotions or package deals.
- Confirm the cancellation policy and any potential weather-related rescheduling options.
What Should I Expect on an Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour?
An Earnslaw Burn helicopter tour offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience:
- Scenic Flight:
- Soar over the Southern Alps and witness the stunning Earnslaw Burn glacier.
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Enjoy panoramic views of cascading waterfalls, pristine alpine lakes, and rugged mountain terrain.
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Landing Opportunities:
- Depending on your chosen package, experience one or more scenic landings.
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Explore areas inaccessible by other means of transport.
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Photo Opportunities:
- Capture breathtaking shots of the landscape, including locations featured in famous films.
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Take advantage of the exclusive landing sites for unique perspectives.
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Expert Commentary:
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Learn about the region’s geology, flora, fauna, and cultural significance from knowledgeable pilots.
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Optional Extras:
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Some tours include picnics, hikes, or even a Milford Sound cruise for a more comprehensive experience.
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Safety Briefing:
- Receive a thorough safety briefing before takeoff and follow all guidelines provided by your pilot.
Remember to dress appropriately for alpine conditions, bring a camera, and be prepared for potential weather changes that could affect your flight.