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Our Pilots will take you up to 9500 ft above the patchwork Canterbury Plains with spectacular Panoramic views west to the Mountains and east to the Pacific Ocean.
Launching from the famous foothills of Mt Hutt. The flight can only be described as exhilarating, gliding above the treetops and rising up to watch as the Canterbury Plains roll out in front of you. Then looking west you will see the majestic snow caped Southern Alps.
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Methven
There can be few finer places to take a balloon flight than New Zealand's Canterbury Plains. We take off close to the foothills of Mt. Hutt, where the mountains provide excellent shelter from the prevailing North Westerly winds. We have unlimited airspace restrictions upto 9,500 ft which gives us fantastic views across the southern alps as far away as Mt. Cook and Mt. Aspiring and also looking East across the patchwork landscape of the plains to the Pacific coast. Methven is a great place to spend a few days with many other attractions including mountain walks and the Lord of the Rings site at Mt. Sunday.
Canterbury Region
We meet in the center of Methven where there is ample parking and conveniences. After introductions, we will travel in our 4X4 chase vehicle to the best launch site for the given wind direction on the day (approx. 20 mins). We will then have a safety briefing and inflate the balloons. After take-off we usually climb to a good altitude for seeing the panoramic views and take pictures (we also have a camera attached to the balloon for inflight photographs). After which we descend to a lower altitude for the second half of the flight where you will be able to see things on the ground better. After landing we will enjoy a celebration drink in the landing field and then travel back to Methven in the chase vehicle, which will have been following us throughout the flight.
Photos will be posted on Facebook or on request from us [email protected]
To finish we will be having a celebratory glass of Sparkling wine or fruit juice
69 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
jodellel2024,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Awesome hot air balloon experience that exceeded expectations. Not only was the information provided accurate but the entire outing was calm, professional and delivered what was advertised. At no time did I feel unsafe or was left wondering what was going on. Thanks for a great outing.. . Hoping i got some awesome photos too 👏




romankS9386RY,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We just want to share thank you so much to our guide it was a great experienced. And most especially a best day ever proposing my partner and celebrate her birthday with our little man.
trudyd220,,Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I loved this flight. Is was so quiet in the air. Everything was good organised. I wish that a lot more people will take this flight
Nomad43619582071,,Nov 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We really enjoyed our experience. Beautiful scenery and so peaceful. Everyone was included, from starting up the balloon to packing the balloon up at the end. Going up high and then as low as the tops of trees. Seeing everything from another angle was interesting. We would recommend the experience. The men were experienced and friendly this made everyone feel comfortable. Thank you
Dreamer41564271741,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Awesome experience, the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable about not only the ballooning but the surrounding area pointing out landmarks etc. An excellent way to celebrate our 30 anniversary especially with the champagne on landing.
U3265EWoliviat,,Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had such an amazing experience with Graeme and the team. So friendly and the flight was so peaceful and such a beautiful way to see the foothills and plains of Canterbury. Would highly recommend doing this, truly a once in a life time experience!
Norman T,,Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
Dress nice and warm . It was nice to have a 6am start, to see the sunrise. The staff were top notch 👌 It was a wonderful surprise for my wife and daughter as a birthday shout.
caitr onac2025,,Aug 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Unique experience on the Canterbury Plains! Incredible views of the Southern Alps. Our guide was very knowledgeable and reassuring- a safe pair of hands!
kerryf982,,Jul 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Amazing experience and a fantastic team very knowledgeable and experienced pilot,views like no other.What an amazing way to see methven area . Highly recommend.will be back again.
prashantunplugged,,Jul 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience today of flying in beautiful day at Methven…Whole family enjoyed each and every moment..Views were amazing and Graeme and team were amazing and super helpful


Operated by Adventure Balloons NZ