Earnslaw Burn Glacier & Waterfalls | 75min from Queenstown
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This unforgettable 75-minute heli experience takes you to our exclusive Earnslaw Burn landing, featuring a hanging glacier and waterfalls, plus one other stunning alpine landing location.
Highlights
- Exclusive and unique landing in Earnslaw Burn
- See the immense wall of waterfalls in the Earnslaw Burn and the blue ice
- Views of the historic Skippers Canyon and Lake Whakatipu
- Available year-round, with seasonal variations in waterfalls and snow
- Land in a remote alpine location chosen by your pilot
Description
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? This scenic helicopter flight begins with a journey through Moonlight Saddle and over the historic gold-mining terrain of Skippers Canyon. We then pass by the mighty Mt Earnslaw before making an exclusive landing in the breathtaking Earnslaw Burn valley — a location so special that Heliworks is the only company permitted to touch down there. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and a towering hanging glacier, this spot is a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike. In summer, countless waterfalls pour from the ice, while in winter, the glacier takes centre stage, draped in a blanket of snow.
From here, we lift off again and head toward Glenorchy at the northern tip of Lake Whakatipu. Gaining altitude, your pilot selects the perfect alpine landing site based on the day’s weather and conditions. Stepping out onto a mountain top, you'll be treated to panoramic views of rugged peaks and remote wilderness — a moment of serenity and awe before we fly back along the lake towards home.
The Earnslaw Burn has starred in The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Travel Guides Australia, Tracked, and The Summit. While the number of flowing waterfalls is reduced in the winter months (June–August), the glacier becomes even more impressive with added snow coverage, creating a truly magical alpine setting year-round.
Includes
75-minute scenic helicopter experience from Queenstown
1 Earnslaw Burn basin landing (20 mins)
1 Alpine landing (10mins)
Experienced local pilot with informative in-flight commentary
Hotel Pickup and Dropoff (Optional)
Important Information
- Shared Experience: This is a shared scenic flight. You may be travelling with 6 to 9 passengers onboard the helicopter. Please note there are minimum passenger numbers to confirm a flight.
- Seating Configuration: Seating is arranged to ensure the safety and balance of the aircraft. Seats are assigned based on weight and balance requirements, and we are unable to guarantee specific seating positions.
- Weight Restrictions: Accurate individual weights are required at the time of booking. Any significant discrepancies may result in changes to the flight manifest or additional charges.
•Scenic Landings: This flight includes two incrdible landings, the exclusive earnslaw burn and an alpine landing selected by your pilot.
- Weather Dependent: All flights are subject to weather and operational conditions. Routes and landing locations may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund