Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour

Highlights

  • Make your own way to Christchurch Airport to set off on your 20-minute helicopter tour of Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula. Once you’re buckled in, listen to the pilot’s commentary while you soar over the Christchurch city center, where evidence of the devastation from the  2010 and 2011 earthquakes remains.  Get a bird’s-eye view of Christchurch’s road to recovery as you look down upon vacant city blocks as well as ruined buildings that are being rebuilt along Christchurch’s ever-changing skyline. Your pilot points out the seriously damaged ChristChurch Cathedral, and the nearby Transitional Cathedral that has taken its place. Fly over the new sports stadium and learn about the city’s vision for its future. Flying toward the coast, hover over Lyttelton Harbour (Whakaraupo) before taking in the volcano-formed coves and bays of the Banks Peninsula from above. The return route skims the outskirts of Christchurch, including the suburbs of Sumner and Redcliffs, whose affluent locals also experienced the destruction from New Zealand’s second deadliest natural disaster. End your helicopter tour back at the starting point, with newfound appreciation for this historic city rising from the ashes.

Summary

Make your own way to Christchurch Airport to set off on your 20-minute helicopter tour of Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula. Once you’re buckled in, listen to the pilot’s commentary while you soar over the Christchurch city center, where evidence of the devastation from the  2010 and 2011 earthquakes remains.  Get a bird’s-eye view of Christchurch’s road to recovery as you look down upon vacant city blocks as well as ruined buildings that are being rebuilt along Christchurch’s ever-changing skyline. Your pilot points out the seriously damaged ChristChurch Cathedral, and the nearby Transitional Cathedral that has taken its place. Fly over the new sports stadium and learn about the city’s vision for its future. Flying toward the coast, hover over Lyttelton Harbour (Whakaraupo) before taking in the volcano-formed coves and bays of the Banks Peninsula from above. The return route skims the outskirts of Christchurch, including the suburbs of Sumner and Redcliffs, whose affluent locals also experienced the destruction from New Zealand’s second deadliest natural disaster. End your helicopter tour back at the starting point, with newfound appreciation for this historic city rising from the ashes.

Tour info

Duration
20 minutes
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

It is only from the air that you can only appreciate the scale of Christchurch City's devastation and recovery following the 2010 earthquake. This 20-minute helicopter tour flies over the crumbled tower of Christchurch Cathedral, the new sports stadium and other signs of the city’s rebuilding as you listen to your pilot's commentary. Your 20-minute flight also takes you to the spectacularly scenic Banks Peninsula, then back toward Christchurch over the suburbs of Sumner and Redcliffs.

What’s included?

  • Live commentary from pilot

  • Entry/Admission - Garden City Helicopters

  • Gratuities

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 20m

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Vaccine Passes and mask wearing will be required to enter our premises or aircraft. This will be verified by staff upon arrival. This excludes individuals with an exemption or children under the age of 12. Please use the New Zealand Covid 19 tracer app

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Garden City Helicopters

About operator:

Experience the very best views New Zealand has to offer on a heli adventure flight. See the sights of Christchurch city or choose one of our exciting packages from whale watching, jetboating,vineyards or the majestic scenery of Akaroa – just 15 minutes away!

  • 93 reviews