Overview
Available languages
20 minutes
Mobile ticket
Sit back and relax aboard a helicopter over Ōtautahi Christchurch, New Zealand’s newest city—a place where resilience meets regeneration. Years after the earthquakes, Christchurch thrives as a vibrant, evolving city that still honors its Garden City roots. From above, see Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens, and Deans Bush / Pūtaringamotu—green jewels in the city’s heart. Below, bold new precincts mix with restored heritage buildings. Gaze at laneways, central bars, the Margaret Mahy Playground, and the iconic Town Hall. The cultural core pulses with life—home to The Court Theatre, The Piano, and Isaac Theatre Royal. Te Kaha, the new One New Zealand Stadium, gleams—future home of concerts, world-class rugby, and Crusader victories. To the east, the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor transforms the Red Zone into an urban sanctuary. Beyond, fly over the Port Hills to Banks Peninsula: Diamond Harbour, Lyttelton Port, Sumner, and Pegasus Bay—where nature, culture, past, and future connect.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No Child prices
Infant age is 0 to 2 years old are free and must be seated on the lap of a fare paying adult
Customers in wheelchairs will need to be able to lift themselves in the helicopter or have a care person to help them. A fare will be require if care person must travel with.
Trip is weather dependent
We require a minimum number of fares for flights to depart. Flight will be cancelled if minimum number of fares is not reached.
Pilot will decide on seating of passengers in the helicopter. Pilot must operate helicopter within the weight and balance requirements of the aircraft
You must reconfirm you booking 24 hours prior to departure to check weather conditions
Passengers will be weighed on check in, we will ask on booking for your estimated weight
weight limitations apply
What To Expect
Garden City Helicopters
After a safety briefing, Depart from our helibase at Christchurch International Airport by helicopter to view Otautahi, Christchurch from the air.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
An aerial view of the many green spaces of Ōtautahi, Christchurch. Such as: Dean Bush, The Red Zone and Hagley Park. Within Hagley Park is the Christchurch Botanical Gardens. A 21 hectare park with more than 10 different gardens framed by mature trees and expansive lawns, which are mostly contained within a loop of the Avon River.
Options
Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour
What‘s Included
Live commentary from pilot
A fantastic aerial view of Christchurch City and harbour
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
22 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Unforgettable helicopter experience in Christchurch
Gina Y,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I had an amazing experience with Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour. From start to finish, everything was smooth and well-organised. The staff were friendly, professional, and made me feel comfortable and excited before take-off. The helicopter ride itself was absolutely breathtaking—seeing Christchurch, the coastline, and the surrounding landscapes from above was unreal. The pilot was knowledgeable and shared interesting information during the flight, which made the experience even more special. I highly recommend this Scenic helicopter tour. Definitely a bucket-list experience and worth every moment!
Fantastic views!
Face The Elements,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic experience that takes you over the city of Christchurch and into the hillside then along the coast for a Birdseye view of a landscape. We did the Christchurch city scenic tour and this 20 minute long flight was very enjoyable for everyone on board. The pilot gave us some information while in the air and there was tons of photo ops! Definitely a unique way to see the city!
Fantastic experience
Tegan G,Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I booked this for my son and his gf/partner. They absolutely loved it and couldn’t stop talking about how lovely everyone was and what a great afternoon it was.
Great experience for the cost but especially the amazing team.
Kevin C,Sep 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Im shocking with names BUT the front of house lady was AWESOME during my beautiful Olivias flight. Allowing us to follow her on a birthday flight over Christchurch on her screen tracking the path. Big recommendation for this business was a total fun experience for Olivia buzzing about her flight and us on the ground.
Would have loved to had the better view for filming
7Sherry77,Sep 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00The pilot was good and informative. But we thought we would have the helicopter to ourselves, instead we had another person who had the best window and we couldn't do much filming as she was up and down with her camera throughout the entire flight in the largest window. Would have thought we would have had the ride to ourselves for the price.
Perfect way to see Christchurch and surroundings
linnelltim,Aug 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Really great flight. We had some weather issues and great communication from GCH at all points, and they were able to find a slot when the weather cleared. Very professional operation, a great pilot who gave interesting and detailed commentary and we had beautiful views in the gorgeous late afternoon light. Very highly recommended.
Amazing
simon n,Feb 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It’s easy and very professional. Great communication friendly and welcoming. The reception briefing and information was great.
Fabulous first helicopter flight!
Deborah P,Jan 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time! Jake was not only a wonderful pilot, but a fabulous “tour guide” as well. He shared lots of information regarding Christchurch and the surrounding area. It was a fabulous first helicopter ride… would definitely do it again!
Disappointed
Donna B,Feb 17, 2024
- Review from Viator
3.00Disappointed with what we saw and flight time. Basically circled the city to the beach then back to the airport. Not much to see that you couldn’t do for cheaper in the gondola.
Worth your dollar
Joe M,Dec 18, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely amazing ride and lovely pilot. We even got offers a chance to go on a tour which made the day more special. Would recommend to all.
Related Experiences
Operated by Garden City Helicopters