What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin — and after years of helping cruise passengers discover Hawaii’s best adventures, I thought I’d seen it all. Then I came across the New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours from CharlieTheTraveler, and honestly? This might be the most comprehensive aerial adventure package I’ve ever reviewed.
Safety & Operator Credentials: CharlieTheTraveler
With over 15 years of experience flying in the Queenstown region and a commitment to the highest safety standards, CharlieTheTraveler has earned a trusted reputation among visitors. Their combination of experienced local pilots, modern aircraft, and excellent customer reviews makes them a reliable choice for scenic helicopter tours.
CharlieTheTraveler operates under Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) certification and maintains full compliance with all regulatory requirements.
The company maintains an impeccable safety record with rigorous pre-flight checks and adherence to strict operational standards.
Their modern fleet consists of well-maintained Eurocopter and Squirrel helicopters equipped with the latest safety and navigation technology.
All pilots hold Commercial Pilot Licenses with thousands of flight hours and extensive experience navigating Queenstown’s unique alpine terrain.
CharlieTheTraveler is highly rated on Viator with consistently excellent reviews from travelers worldwide.
📅 Check Availability for Your Dates
Tours sell out fast — especially on weekends and during peak season. Enter your travel dates on Viator to see what’s available before it’s gone.
This isn’t your typical single helicopter flight — this is a full 9-day immersion into New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, featuring not one but two flightseeing tours that’ll have your jaw on the floor. We’re talking a scenic flight over Milford Sound and another over Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak. If you’re searching for the best Queenstown helicopter tour experience wrapped into an unforgettable multi-day adventure, this helicopter tour review is going to show you exactly why this package has earned a perfect 5-star rating.
The New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours Review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning that CharlieTheTraveler has crafted something truly special here — combining world-class aerial experiences with jet-boating, glacier hiking, cultural immersion, and so much more. Ready to see why thousands of travelers choose this tour every year? Book this Queenstown helicopter tour on Viator and secure your spot on an adventure of a lifetime.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
When you’re investing in a premium 9-day experience, you want to know exactly what’s included. This New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours package delivers exceptional value with comprehensive inclusions that eliminate the stress of planning.
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
Your tour includes:
- All Entry Fees — no surprise costs at attractions
- Lodging — comfortable accommodations throughout your journey
- Dinner — experience authentic New Zealand cuisine
- Air-Conditioned Vehicle — travel in comfort between destinations
- Private Transportation — no waiting for tour buses or navigating unfamiliar roads
- English-Speaking Tour Guides — knowledgeable guides who bring each location to life
At From $6133 for 216 hours (that’s 9 full days) of first-class experiences, the value here is remarkable. Consider that a single premium helicopter tour in Queenstown can cost $500-800 — and this package includes two flightseeing tours plus a massive list of activities.
Helicopter Tour Tip
Calculate the per-day cost of this tour — at roughly $680 per day including two helicopter flights, accommodation, meals, and all activities, you’re getting extraordinary value compared to booking everything separately.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
The aerial components of this tour are what truly set it apart. As someone who writes helicopter tour reviews professionally, I can tell you that the dual flightseeing experiences here rival the best Queenstown helicopter tour options available anywhere in the world.
A Pilot’s View of Paradise as Well as Blue Lakes
Your first major aerial adventure takes you over some of New Zealand’s most stunning terrain. Imagine lifting off and seeing the landscape transform below you — the crystal-clear blue lakes that New Zealand is famous for spreading out like sapphires scattered across green velvet. The perspective you get from a helicopter is incomparable to any ground-based experience.
Landing on a Field of Ice & Leaving the World Behind
This is where the magic really happens. Your Mount Cook flightseeing tour doesn’t just show you glaciers from above — you’ll actually land on a field of ancient ice. The silence when the rotors slow down, the pristine white stretching in every direction, the feeling of being completely removed from civilization… it’s transformative. Check availability and pricing here because these glacier landing experiences book up fast, especially during peak season.
Bob’s Peak, Skippers Canyon, Flying Like a Bird & a Rollercoaster-Like Boat Ride
The Queenstown portion of your adventure combines aerial thrills with high-speed water action. You’ll soar over Bob’s Peak for panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous, then experience the legendary Skippers Canyon — a narrow gorge that even the best photographs can’t capture properly. The jet-boat ride through turquoise waters afterward feels like the perfect complement to your time in the sky.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Before you embark on this New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours adventure, here’s what you need to know to be fully prepared.
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | CharlieTheTraveler |
| Starting Price | From $6133 |
| Duration | 9 Days (216 hours) |
| Rating | 5 out of 5 stars |
| Total Reviews | 5 verified reviews |
| Starting Location | Queenstown, New Zealand |
| Transportation | Private, Air-Conditioned |
| Language | English-Speaking Guides |
What to pack for helicopter segments:
- Layers — temperatures change dramatically at altitude and on glaciers
- Sunglasses — the glare off snow and water is intense
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for glacier walking
- Camera with plenty of storage — you’ll take thousands of photos
- Motion sickness medication if you’re prone to it
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
Understanding the cancellation policy is essential for any major tour booking, and CharlieTheTraveler offers reasonable flexibility:
- Full refund if you cancel at least 6 full days before departure
- 50% refund if you cancel between 2-6 days before departure
- No refund if you cancel within 2 days of departure
This policy is fairly standard for comprehensive multi-day tours, but I always recommend travel insurance for trips of this magnitude. Weather can affect helicopter flights, and while operators typically reschedule when possible, having protection gives you peace of mind.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After reviewing countless helicopter tours and helping thousands of travelers plan their adventures, here are my personal tips for getting the most out of this incredible 9-day experience:
- Book well in advance — This tour has limited capacity because it’s a premium, small-group experience. The flightseeing components have strict passenger limits, and the best Queenstown helicopter tour time slots fill up months ahead during peak season (December-February). Secure your spot on Viator before it sells out
- Prepare your camera gear the night before each helicopter flight — There’s nothing worse than fumbling with settings while the pilot is pointing out Mount Cook’s peak. Charge batteries, clear memory cards, and know your camera settings in advance.
- Embrace the full experience — Don’t skip the cultural components like Eating with the Islands’ First People & Native Dances. The Māori cultural experiences add depth to your journey that pure adrenaline activities can’t provide.
- Layer up for glacier activities — Even in summer, glacier temperatures can be shockingly cold. Bring thermal underlayers, a windproof jacket, and waterproof outer layers. Your comfort directly impacts your enjoyment.
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself — Nine days of non-stop adventure can be physically demanding. The geothermal spa visits at A Natural Healing Pool, a Volcanic Crater & Hot Water Springs are strategically placed to help you recover — take full advantage of them!
The Best Times to Book
For a 9-day tour of this magnitude, timing matters significantly.
Peak Season (December-February): New Zealand’s summer offers the best weather for helicopter flights and outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time. Book at least 3-4 months ahead.
Shoulder Season (March-May, September-November): My personal recommendation for this New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours experience. You’ll encounter fewer crowds, lower prices, and still enjoy excellent flying conditions. Autumn (March-May) offers stunning fall colors, while spring (September-November) brings wildflowers and newborn lambs.
Winter (June-August): Some activities may be seasonal (the tour notes 4-wheel driving and iceberg boat rides are seasonal), but winter offers spectacular snow-capped mountains and fewer tourists.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Unbeatable Value
Travellers rave about the first-class experience packed with activities at a surprisingly affordable price.
Breathtaking Flightseeing
Visitors love the stunning helicopter tours over Milford Sound and Mount Cook with unforgettable aerial views.
Action-Packed Itinerary
Guests praise how much is included, from jet-boating to flightseeing, making every day exciting.
Best-in-Class Quality
Reviewers highlight that no other tour matches this combination of quality, substance, and premium experiences.
When analyzing this helicopter tour review and comparing it to hundreds of others I’ve written, the numbers speak for themselves:
- Perfect 5-star rating from all verified reviewers
- 5 detailed reviews from travelers who’ve completed the full experience
- Starting price of $6133 includes more activities than most $10,000+ tour packages
- Two separate flightseeing tours included in the base price
- Private transportation throughout — no shared buses or waiting for groups
The New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours Review consistently earns praise because CharlieTheTraveler has mastered the balance between adventure and comfort. You get the thrill of jet-boating, the awe of glacier landings, and the cultural richness of Māori traditions — all without sacrificing first-class amenities.
What truly sets this apart as potentially the best Queenstown helicopter tour package available? The variety. In nine days, you’ll experience:
- 2 helicopter flightseeing tours
- Jet-boating at top speed
- Optional bungy jumping
- Zip-lining adventures
- Cable car rides
- 4-wheel driving (seasonal)
- Multiple boat cruises including around icebergs
- Historic steamship cruise
- Geothermal site visits
- Mud spa bathing
- Glacier hiking
- Lord of the Rings movie set tour
- Traditional Māori performance
No other single tour offers this breadth of experiences at this price point.
Book New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours before it’s too late!
Listen, I review helicopter tours for a living, and I’m telling you — this New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours package is exceptional. The combination of two flightseeing tours, glacier landing experiences, high-adrenaline activities, and cultural immersion creates something genuinely unique in the travel market.
With only 5 verified reviews maintaining a perfect 5-star rating, this is a tour run by operators who prioritize quality over quantity. Spots are limited, and the most desirable dates book out quickly.
Don’t let this adventure fly away without you on board.
Spots Fill Fast – Reserve Your Flight Before It’s Gone!
Top-rated helicopter tours often sell out weeks in advance. Book now to lock in your spot before peak dates disappear.
Things to Do Near Your Helicopter Tour
While you’re in the area, make the most of your trip! Here are some top things to do near Queenstown — from beaches and local eats to landmarks worth exploring.
The world’s first commercial bungee jumping site offering a thrilling 43-meter leap over the Kawarau River.
15 min drive
A gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak offering stunning panoramic views and the famous Stratosfare Restaurant.
5 min drive
An iconic gourmet burger joint famous for its massive, delicious burgers and late-night queues.
1 min walk
A breathtaking fjord featuring towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife on scenic cruises.
4 hour drive
A beautiful lakeside park perfect for walking, frisbee golf, and enjoying views of Lake Wakatipu.
5 min walk
An exhilarating jet boat ride through narrow canyons at high speeds with thrilling 360-degree spins.
10 min drive
Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
Question: What makes this different from booking separate helicopter tours in New Zealand?
Answer: This New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours package includes two premium flightseeing experiences (Milford Sound and Mount Cook) plus over a dozen other activities, private transportation, accommodation, and meals — all coordinated seamlessly. Booking separately would cost significantly more and require extensive planning.
Question: Are the helicopter flights weather-dependent?
Answer: Yes, all helicopter flights operate weather-permitting for safety. CharlieTheTraveler builds flexibility into the 9-day itinerary to reschedule flights if needed, maximizing your chances of experiencing both flightseeing tours.
Question: Is this suitable for first-time helicopter passengers?
Answer: Absolutely! The pilots are experienced professionals who make first-time flyers feel comfortable. The enclosed helicopter experiences are smooth and stable — perfect for those new to aviation.
Question: What’s included in the accommodation portion?
Answer: The tour includes at least one night of lodging as noted in the inclusions. Contact CharlieTheTraveler directly for complete accommodation details for all 9 nights.
Question: Can I customize any portion of this tour?
Answer: Yes — the bungy jumping component is listed as optional, and the operator offers private, custom tours. Contact them to discuss any specific preferences or requirements.
Question: How physically demanding is this tour?
Answer: While there are adventurous activities like glacier hiking and zip-lining, the tour is designed for regular travelers. You should be able to walk moderate distances and handle some physical activity, but this isn’t an extreme fitness tour.
Question: What happens if weather cancels a helicopter flight?
Answer: Operators typically reschedule within your tour dates when possible. Given the 9-day duration, there’s usually flexibility to accommodate weather-related changes.
Question: Is travel insurance recommended?
Answer: Strongly yes. For a multi-day tour of this investment level, comprehensive travel insurance protects you against unforeseen circumstances including weather cancellations, medical emergencies, and trip interruptions.
Question: Why is this considered the best Queenstown helicopter tour experience?
Answer: Because it combines Queenstown-based flightseeing with a Mount Cook glacier landing and integrates these aerial experiences into a comprehensive 9-day adventure covering New Zealand’s top attractions — something no standalone helicopter tour can match.
Question: What seasonal activities might not be available?
Answer: The tour notes that 4-wheel driving in scenic valleys and boat rides around icebergs are seasonal. Book during summer months (December-February) for the best chance of experiencing everything.
Question: How far in advance should I book?
Answer: I recommend booking at least 2-3 months ahead for shoulder season and 4-6 months ahead for peak summer season to secure your preferred dates.
Question: Can this tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Answer: Contact CharlieTheTraveler directly to discuss any dietary requirements. As a private tour operator, they can typically accommodate special requests with advance notice.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of helicopter flightseeing, the adventure of glacier hiking, or the cultural depth of Māori traditions, this tour delivers on every front. My final verdict in this helicopter tour review? This is one of the most comprehensive and well-designed New Zealand experiences available today. Book your Queenstown helicopter tour today and prepare for nine days you’ll never forget.
