Scenic Helicopter Adventures
Experience the Southern Alps with Main Divide Helicopters, where every flight is crafted around the people we fly. Instead of set itineraries, we create journeys, shaped by the weather, the landscape, and what our guests love most. From quiet alpine tarns to dramatic high-country ridgelines, each trip is designed to feel intimate, unhurried, and genuinely one-of-a-kind. With local pilots, warm hospitality, and a few homemade touches along the way, you’ll see the mountains in a way that feels personal from the moment you lift off.




Helicopter Scenic Flight Packages
30minute Alpine Explorer
Take off from our Springfield base and head deep into the heart of the Southern Alps on this unforgettable alpine adventure. Fly over the iconic Mt Torlesse Gap, where rugged mountain landscapes unfold beneath you, before touching down on a remote high-country peak.
Step out into the fresh alpine air, capture incredible photos, and soak up panoramic views stretching across Canterbury’s mountains and plains.
Your journey continues through the spectacular Waimakariri Gorge, where you’ll follow the striking turquoise waters of the braided river winding through dramatic cliffs and untouched wilderness before returning to Springfield.
A perfect introduction to Canterbury’s alpine beauty, packed with breathtaking scenery from start to finish.
$399 per person
45minute Beyond the Gap
Venture deeper into the Southern Alps on this extended alpine experience. Departing from our Springfield base, you’ll fly over the iconic Mt Torlesse Gap before continuing further into the rugged Craigieburn Range, where dramatic mountain landscapes, hidden valleys, and alpine tarns await.
Touch down beside a pristine high-country tarn, surrounded by spectacular alpine scenery. Take time to explore, capture incredible photos, and enjoy the peace and solitude of this remote mountain setting.
The adventure continues as you track through the breathtaking Waimakariri Gorge, following the striking blue waters of the braided river below before returning to Springfield.
With more time in the air and access to even more remote terrain, this flight offers a truly immersive Southern Alps experience and some of Canterbury’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
$650 per person
70minute Glacier Adventurer
Experience the grandeur of the Southern Alps on our ultimate glacier adventure. Departing from Springfield, you’ll journey deep into Arthur’s Pass National Park, flying amongst towering mountain peaks, ancient river valleys, and some of New Zealand’s most dramatic alpine landscapes.
Venture into the heart of the high country where vast glaciers carve their way through the mountains. Touch down beside one of these spectacular rivers of ice and step into a world shaped by thousands of years of natural forces. Surrounded by rugged peaks, hanging icefalls, and breathtaking alpine scenery, this is a truly unforgettable landing experience.
With over an hour of flying time, you’ll explore remote corners of the Southern Alps inaccessible by road, taking in panoramic views of glaciers, alpine lakes, braided rivers, and pristine wilderness before returning to Springfield.
This is the ultimate way to experience the scale, beauty, and raw power of New Zealand’s alpine environment.
$1,100 per person
Our Recent Customer Reviews
Had the most amazing helicopter trip up the South Island, the views were spectacular and Chris is so knowledgeable and professional, would highly recommend. It was the icing on the cake to a wonderful trip to NZ.
— Wendy M
First time flying with Main Divide Helicopters, amazing experience and will definitely be flying with Chris again in the future. Highly recommend.
— Josh S
I can’t recommend it enough. Chris is a fantastic pilot, and the whole tour felt really personal and special. It’s not like those other tours that feel the same for everyone and have been done by hundreds of people. I would definitely book with them again when we come back!
— Daniel D
Their service went above and beyond what I expected and I’m so grateful to them for their caring professionalism. Highly recommend these guys for any heli trip!
— Michelle P

FAQs
Where do your flights depart from?
All flights depart from Springfield, Canterbury, right at the foothills of the Southern Alps. Just a 35-minute drive from Christchurch International Airport, it’s the perfect launch point to access glaciers, alpine lakes, and remote mountain landscapes.
Do the flights include a landing?
Yes – our scenic flights include a remote alpine landing, giving you the chance to step out, take photos, and take in the mountains. If you’re after something a little extra special, we can organise a mountain top drinks and nibbles!
What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, we will do our best to reschedule your flight for another time that suits. If rescheduling isn’t possible, you will receive a full refund.
Can we bring our children?
Absolutely! Children are more than welcome with us, so long as they are travelling with an adult. We often find young children and babies fall asleep within minutes of take off!
How many people can fly in the helicopter?
Our helicopters can take up to 5 passengers at a time.

Is there a special experience or place you’ve always dreamed of reaching by helicopter? Let’s make it happen. Get in touch to chat about creating an adventure just for you!

