paihia helicopter tours

Helicopter Tours

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Bay of Islands and Hole in the Rock Scenic Helicopter Tour

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Scenic Flights Paihia – Hole in the Rock & Cape Reinga

Bay of Islands Scenic Flights by Helicopter or Plane

Over the bay of islands and cape reinga, salt air offer scenic flights over northland and the bay of islands to cape reinga at the top of new zealand..

Salt Air can provide you with a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience of the Bay of Islands and Northland from the air, complete with breathtaking views of the coastline and the landscape of the islands.

You will come away from your experience with an appreciation of the local history, culture, and coastal environment that is distinctive to Northland. Through our scenic flights, unique landing places, and guided tour alternatives.

We provide scenic flights in either an aeroplane or a helicopter. The destinations include the breathtaking Bay of Islands and the world-famous Cape Reinga region at the very top of New Zealand.

We can also assist you in surprising someone or giving them a surprise for a particular event, such as a marriage proposal you may be planning.

Salt Air Scenic Flight Tour Options:

Scenic helicopter flight hole in the rock, cape reinga & 90 mile beach half day tour.

The Bay of Islands features some of the most spectacular coastal and island landscapes in New Zealand. Thus this scenic helicopter trip provides impressive views of these stunning islands leading to the notorious “Hole in the Rock.” Departing from the beachside helipad in Paihia, the flight heads across Russell with views over to Opua and the surrounding area before following the gorgeous peninsula coastline to Cape Brett and its lighthouse, where you will experience an exhilarating turn to fly around the Hole in the Rock. The return half of the flight flies directly over the region’s principal islands, providing views of beautiful white sand beaches, appealing blue waters, and several wealthy private houses. As you approach land, you will soar above the town of Paihia. A must-do activity while at the Bay of Islands! (flight duration approx. 20 minutes)

Our flight to Cape Reinga takes you past spectacular harbours with small coastal towns and villages and across to the west coast, flying up Ninety Mile Beach before you land just 20 km from Cape Reinga. Once on the ground, our airconditioned bus will meet us for a two and half hour tour to Cape Reinga lighthouse, where the Tasman sea and Pacific ocean meet. A short distance from here is stunning Tapotupotu Bay, time for a stroll on the beach and some light refreshment before heading to Te Paki quicksand stream for sand surfing down the giant dunes. It is an alternative and quicker way to travel to the top of New Zealand to experience its history and stunning scenery from the air and land. Our return flight takes us down the East Coast with some of Northland’s most spectacular coastal scenery.

Land on the Hole in the Rock - 35 mins

We have flown thousands of tourists over the Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands, which many have loved for its distinctive beauty and rich history for many years.

Now you can enjoy it up close and on foot by landing on our newly constructed helipad on the island’s summit. There will be a quick stop at the island’s helipad and viewing platform for those one-of-a-kind photo opportunities!

Very few individuals, including Maori, have ever been to the island in this manner throughout history. It’s sheer cliffs (over 150 metres high) and breathtaking views of Cape Brett and its surroundings. This unique landing place will undoubtedly appeal to the adventurous.

PLEASE NOTE YOU CAN REQUEST A DEPARTURE TIME TO SUIT YOU IN THE BOOKING FORM.

Land on the Hole in the Rock - 45 mins

Where many visitors have visited and gone through on local cruise boats, A new adventure for 2013, the unique Salt Air Helicopter experience is the option to land by helicopter on top of this iconic landmark of ‘Hole in the Rock’ on our newly built helipad. Steep cliffs surround it, over 150 metres high, giving the best vantage point in the Bay of Islands, taking in panoramic views of Cape Brett and its surrounds to the Poor Knights Islands in the South, the Cavalli Islands in the North and views over the Bay of islands to Paihia and Russell. The thrilling scenic flight over the Bay of Islands and unique landing location will no doubt appeal to the adventurous with its exciting landing on the Hole in the Rock, and cultural aspects will combine to reward visitors with a thrilling and utterly unique New Zealand experience

Scenic Heli Flight Coastal Discovery

An opportunity to explore a little more of the unique and stunning coastline surrounding the Bay of Islands region with an extended version of the Hole in the Rock flight.

This flight flys from Paihia over the Russell area to Whangamumu then heads up the east side of the peninsula to Cape Brett turning there to return to Paihia with views over the picturesque Bay of Islands and Kerikeri Inlet areas covering the local townships. 

Duration: just under 30 minutes

Availability and Booking Information

• This flight flys on demand with availability throughout the day so when booking please enter what time you would like to request.
• We will respond within 24 hours to confirm your booking and departure time we can offer
• Flights require a minimum of 2 people, however if 1 person we will aim to book you with other confirmed passengers
• Children are the same price as adults for ages 4 years and over. Infants are under 4 years and can fly seated on the lap of an adult free of charge
• Flights are subject to weather
• When booking please provide the weight of each passenger in the fields provided
• A $5 per person fuel surcharge currently applies for all bookings

Heli Scenic Flight & Island Cruise Combo

Depart Paihia boarding the Island Getaway boat for a relaxing 5-hour cruise to the islands stopping at two islands to enjoy island walks, swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding or just relaxing. Once you return to Paihia you will booked in to experience a spectacular scenic helicopter flight to the Hole in the Rock and over all the islands returning back to Paihia.

Booking Information

• The 5-hour cruise is a seasonal tour available from October until end of March
• The boat departs Paihia for the Islands at 10.00am until 3pm, the helicopter scenic flight can be scheduled anytime before or after the cruise
• Morning tea is provided at the first island stop (Roberton Island), but you will need to bring your own lunch and drinks
• The boat cruise only operates subject to minimum numbers so may not be confirmed when booking
• Child rates apply for 4-12 year olds, Infants are under 4 years are $89 and will fly seated on the lap of an adult
• When booking please provide  the weight of each passenger in the fields provided.

Bay of Islands Exclusive Helicopter Tours.

Are designed for the discerning traveller and is personalised and tailored to your requirements.

Our comfortable air-conditioned vehicle will meet our flight to take you on a 3-hour tour to Cape Reinga Lighthouse, Tapotupotu Bay and an option to sand sled down the giant dunes at Te Paki stream. Whether it’s a day on the golf course at Carrington or Kauri Cliffs, a flight to Cape Reinga via some of Northland’s most spectacular harbours, flying up the west coast over Ninety Mile Beach and landing just 20 km from Cape Reinga.

Our flight home takes us over the remote and spectacular scenery of the silica sands of Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay, stopping for a leisurely lunch at Henderson Bay. Our flight back down the east coast takes us over Houhora Harbour, Whangaroa Harbour, Cavalli Islands and the stunning Bay of Islands. ENQUIRE NOW

Phone: NZ  09 402 8338

Email: [email protected] Visit our Website:   www.saltair.co.nz/

            Return to the Bay of Islands Page:

Stay longer in the Bay of Islands

Combine your experience  with  great accommodation  .

Spacious Three Bedroom Apartment            Views over the bay                     Two Bedroom Cottage

Booking for Scenic Flights Paihia – Hole in the Rock & Cape Reinga

Try Helicopter Ride in PAIHIA

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• New Zealand
• North Island
• Bay of Islands

Top Helicopter Ride in Paihia

Why Paihia?

At TryHelicopter.com, we redefine sightseeing by offering unforgettable helicopter tours in Paihia. Experience a breathtaking panorama as you soar over diverse landscapes, witnessing the region from a unique vantage point.

Our partners present an array of tours to suit a variety of interests. Whether you're captivated by cityscapes, coastlines, or countryside, there's an aerial adventure waiting for you. We also facilitate custom tours tailored to your preferences for a truly personalized experience.

Our commitment to safety is unwavering. Partners employ experienced pilots and operate top-tier helicopters adhering to local Civil Aviation Authority guidelines. So, relax and savor the awe-inspiring views that Paihia boasts.

Booking is hassle-free - select your preferred tour, choose a date and time, and prepare for a memorable journey above Paihia. With TryHelicopter.com, see Paihia like never before.

FAQs about Helicopter Rides in Paihia

• Cape Reinga Tour
• Helicopter Scenic Flights
• Hole in the Rock Landing
• Heli and Cruise Combo
• Cape Reinga Heli Tour
• Heli Wine Tasting Tour
• Charter Flights
• Special Occasions
• Commercial Lifting Services
• Customer Comments
• News & Updates
• Tourism Links
• Northland Web Cams
• News & Updates

Heli Cruise Island Escape

Want to experience the best of the Bay of Islands all within one day?

Our Heli Cruise Island Escape package allows you to experience a boat cruise between Paihia and the islands, with island beach stops and an incredibly scenic helicopter flight from the islands back to Paihia.

***CURRENTLY NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE 21-22 SUMMER SEASON, PLEASE SEE OUR CRUISE AND HELI COMBO DEAL INSTEAD***

The Ultimate Adventure of Sea, Land and Flight – NZ$349pp

Experience the Bay of Islands with our spectacular Heli Cruise Island Escape.

Duration: approx 4 hours

Departs: 10am

Available Oct to April

Privacy Policy

Depart Paihia at 10.00am on the Sea Shuttle boat for a relaxing cruise taking you on an informative tour of the Islands, your first stop will be at Roberton Island to walk to the lookout and enjoy some morning tea

You will continue cruising to the islands where the skipper will select another island beach to visit. You can relax at your leisure or do island activities such as walking tracks, swimming, snorkelling. Bring your own packed lunch to have here.

After the island visits, the Sea Shuttle will transfer you to our custom built Helicopter Barge in the heart of the Islands at Otehei Bay. The helicopter will pick you up at approx 2pm.

Depart on a stunning 15-minute scenic helicopter flight to the Hole in the Rock and back over the islands before landing in Paihia

Minimum Number for booking is 2 people, we can try and accommodate single passengers on request

What to Bring: Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear for a beach visit, hats, sunscreen, swimwear/towels for swimming. Your own lunch and drinks, morning tea is provided. Snorkelling equipment is available if you don’t have your own

Tripadvisor Reviews

We regularly receive great reviews of this tour on our Tripadvisor page . Some recent comments include:

Truly a 5* experience.  A must do! We felt extremely comfortable during the whole tour as Caity and Adam were extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and warm. We learnt new things such as paddle boarding and eating a sea urchin (see our pics below) – if it wasn’t for Caity and Adam’s encouragement we would have never bothered to give it a try. All equipment for paddle boarding and snorkelling is free including the host’s help. Caity and Adam also took pictures of us from the day and were kind enough to email them to us after the tour. All in all they made our day, and I would highly recommend them to you. Not like I need to mention – the helicopter ride was the cherry on top!

Bay of Islands boat & helicopter tour. Overall this activity was the highlight of our stay in the Bay of Islands and our “private island” is one of the first things we talk about when we tell people about our trip to NZ. I’d definitely recommend doing this instead of just a boat or helicopter tour on its own – the views were amazing and having a whole little island to explore on your own was something special. The team at Salt Air were very nice and friendly and very helpful & well organised. They also even helped when we wanted to get a high-resolution photo of the island we visited to get printed out.

Fabulous Day Out. We did the heli cruise which I thought was great value for money. The first part had us taken by motor boat around the Bay of Islands being dropped off at 2 islands to explore. We then we taken out to the helicopter landing pad which is on a raft in the middle of one of the bays and flown back to Paihia after a scenic flight around the Bay. A great experience and highly recommended.

Unforgettable, start to finish. We did the heli island escape and it was the best money we spent on our honeymoon. The helicopter ride was a great way to see the Bay of Islands and we were dropped at a beautiful and secluded area with provisions for a thoroughly pleasant afternoon. What really sets Salt Air apart though, is the staff. They were friendly, obliging and knowledgeable and they really made us feel special.

Paihia - Bay of Islands Helicopter Tours

Activity Types

Activity Listings (1-3 of 3)

Bay of Islands and Hole in the Rock Scenic Helicopter Tour

Helicopter Tour - Paihia - Starting from $260.00 per person

Bay of Islands Shore Excursion: Scenic Helicopter Tour Including Hole in the Rock

Ports of Call Tour - Paihia - Starting from $260.00 per person

Bay of Islands Cruise and Scenic Helicopter Tour

Helicopter Tour - Paihia - Starting from $349.00 per person

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Is a Helicopter Ride in Kauai Worth It? Your Top Questions Answered

A re you thinking about booking a  kauai  helicopter tour but still have a lot of questions keep scrolling to find out whether or not it’s worth booking a helicopter ride in kauai..

Guest post by Dani of Diapers in Paradise

If you have ever considered splurging on a helicopter tour, you are not going to find a better place in the world to do it than  Kauai .

Kauai is known for the lush, verdant jungle that covers most of the island, but it is largely inaccessible to vehicles.

In fact, some of the most iconic landmarks of the Garden Island are only visible from the water… or the air.

There are many helicopter tour companies set up on the island, ready to show you around the side of Kauai that you will not be able to experience any other way.

If you are wondering whether a Kauai helicopter tour is a worthwhile part of your trip, read on to learn more and to hear about my experience with it.

Don’t miss my top  Things to do in Kauai with Kids !

Popular Kauai Tours/Activities

• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling Tour (this one also goes to the forbidden island of Ni’ihau)
• Kauai Helicopter Tour (this is the BEST way to see waterfalls on Kauai)
• ATV Tour to a Private Waterfall (this is a romantic adventure that feels like a secret getaway)
• Mountain Tubing (this is a low-key adventure down an old sugar cane canal)
• Luau Kalamaku (you can do a little train ride and feed farm animals before the luau)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Kauai Resorts/Hotels

• Grand Hyatt Kauai (this Poipu resort has a luxurious pool area, romantic restaurants, and a stunning ocean view)
• Koloa Landing Resort (this is a luxury resort with an amazing pool area and truly spacious rooms)
• Royal Sonesta Kauai (we LOVE the pool here because it’s the largest one in Hawaii)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?

One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Click here for step-by-step Kauai travel planning help

What is it like to take a helicopter tour of Kauai?

Do you remember that iconic moment in the original  Jurassic Park  movie  when they are approaching the island in a helicopter, and the dramatic theme music plays as they fly along the prehistoric-looking coast?

That’s exactly what it feels like during helicopter tours of Kauai.

Because that is exactly what you are doing!

That scene from Jurassic Park was actually filmed on the approach to the Na Pali coast, on Kauai’s North Shore, which is one of the two main reasons to take Kauai helicopter tours.

Na Pali is only viewable  by boat  or by Kauai helicopter rides, and if you want the most epic view of the landscape, a helicopter is the way to go.

The other reason to take a helicopter tour? Waimea Canyon. The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

It is possible to see parts of Waimea Canyon by a combination of driving and hiking, but you will only get a hint of the wonder of this ten-mile-long canyon.

But flying through the canyon, past countless waterfalls, and seeing the jungle sprawled out below you – that is how you truly come to appreciate the sheer size and grandeur of Waimea Canyon.

Taking a tour of Kauai by air is an experience that you will not forget.

What is the process for taking a Kauai helicopter tour?

First, you will want to book it ahead of time for your Kauai vacation.

Yes, there are plenty of tour operators that you can find around the cruise ship terminal in Lihue that are happy to take same-day bookings.

But you will really want to do your research ahead of time and choose a reputable operator.

We went with  Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours  for their vast experience and impeccable safety record and because they are one of the very best helicopter tours for private tours.

When you arrive, you’ll go through a safety briefing, and then you’ll head out to meet your pilot at the airfield.

They will get you all buckled up, go over any last-minute safety reminders, and then you’re off! The vertical take-off is thrilling and nerve-wracking, but within minutes you are out over the jungles of the island.

Most Mauna Loa helicopter tours are in the 45-60 minute range, although you can find longer ones.

While some of the sites that they visit may vary, you can bet that every tour is going to show you Waimea Canyon, the rugged Na Pali Coast, and  Manawaiopuna Falls .

There are even tours available that stop midway through for a picnic and photo op!

What are the types of Kauai helicopter tours available?

When you are looking to book a helicopter tour, you will have a few options. You’ll first need to choose if you want to share the helicopter with other people or book a private tour.

Shared tours usually have 6 passengers. And while this doesn’t seem like much, it is possible that you will have your view impaired by another passenger.

If you are hoping to get good photographs of this for your Kauai vacation, this is particularly worrisome.

Some of the best Kauai helicopter tours are better than others for visibility, so read about the particular helicopter for any flight you are considering booking.

You also might not get seated next to your travel partner. They balance the helicopter for weight, so you will not have any say in where you sit.

The next thing you’ll need to choose is whether or not you want doors on your helicopter.

Opting for a Kauai doors-off helicopter tour gives you the advantage of having a better view and not getting any glare on your photos. It’s windier and sometimes a bit wet!

But Kauai doors off helicopter tours give you an unparalleled view of the scenery and make you feel much closer to the landscape.

If having the doors off seems inherently scarier, remember – it is not the doors that are keeping you safe. It is your seat harness and the skills of your pilot.

It will be imperative that you do not have any loose items on you when you fly. Cameras will need to be strapped to your body.

We opted for the private, doors-off tour.

While this was a splurge for us, we figured it was probably the only time we would ever do a helicopter tour, and we wanted to do it the best way we could.

We have not regretted this decision once! The best Kauai helicopter tours are pricey either way. May as well make the most of it on this stunning Hawaiian island!

Can you bring kids on a Kauai helicopter tour?

Yes, although the age requirements will vary by the tour operator.

Some operators have a minimum age of around 7, while others will allow children of any age, including lap infants (under 2), for free. Lap infants will not have a seat belt, however.

If you are traveling with young children, you will really want to think about if they will be able to handle sitting buckled into an adult-sized harness for an hour, especially considering they might not even be able to see past other passengers.

You also might not get seated next to your child, depending on the weight distribution, although most operators will try to seat families together when possible.

When we visited, we were  traveling with a baby  and a toddler. We ended up using a  local babysitter agency  and turned it into a wonderfully memorable half-day date.

  Are Kauai helicopter tours safe?

This is undoubtedly a question that has crossed your mind if you are considering helicopter rides in Kauai.

And given a few high-profile helicopter crashes in the last few years – including one on Kauai – it is only natural to be nervous.

Of course, there is always risk in something like a helicopter flight. They are statistically more dangerous than a commercial airplane flight, although they are less dangerous than flying in a private plane.

Tour-operated helicopters are significantly safer than private helicopters, as well.

Helicopter flight has become much less risky over the past few decades, but there are occasional incidents.

Of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai has seen the highest number of helicopter crashes, although they are still incredibly rare.

Ensure that you choose a reputable tour operator that adheres to the highest level of safety standards. Expect that if there is adverse weather, your tour will be canceled.

For this reason, it is a good idea to book your helicopter flight early in your trip so that you can reschedule if needed!

We never felt unsafe during our helicopter tour. The flight was smooth, and we were impressed with our pilot’s level of experience.

Is a Kauai helicopter tour worth the money?

Without a doubt, yes!

The breathtaking scenery of the NaPali Coast and Waimea Canyon are best viewed from the air, especially a bird’s eye view!

There is no better way to experience the natural wonder of the Garden Isle than by flying above the jungle in a Kauai island helicopter.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience that you will treasure, along with incredible photos, especially if you choose a doors-off tour.

If you are coming to Kauai, I highly recommend taking a few hours out to see the beauty that this island has to offer!

Top Helicopter Tours on Kauai

Kauai eco adventure helicopter tour.

This is a 50-minute Kauai helicopter ride in a new Eurocopter Eco-Star, which is much quieter than other helicopters on Kauai.  Check out the latest prices and more details.

Private Kauai Helicopter Tour with No Middle Seats

This Kauai helicopter tour is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the major perk is that only your party participates, AND everyone gets a good window seat.  Check out the latest prices and more details.

Hughes 500 Helicopter Tour

For another fun ride on one of the island helicopters, try this Hughes 500 helicopter tour! No middle seats, and up to four guests can enjoy this ride. You will pretty much see the entire island with this experienced pilot. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Best Kauai Helicopter Tours FAQs

Absolutely! You will get to see stunning views of the island that you would not see otherwise. It is the perfect way to explore Kauai’s finest places and is an excursion you don’t want to miss out on.

The flight tie is different for each tour. Some are 30 minutes long, while others go over an hour. It all depends on who you book with.

Manawaiopuna Falls, the NaPali coast with its sea cliffs, where they filmed Jurassic Park, Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, Olokele Canyon, and so much more of Kauai’s natural beauty!

Dani runs things over at  Diapers in Paradise , a family travel blog focused entirely on travel with babies and toddlers. With destination guides that center around the needs of parents of little ones, and a library of helpful tips and tricks for minimalism-inspired travel with babies, her goal is to help you prepare to have the best trip ever,  because of  (not  in spite of ) bringing the baby.

Looking for more Kauai Travel Resources? Find out my top  Kauai Vacation Planning Tips ,  Kauai Packing List ,  Best Kauai Waterfalls ,  Top Kauai Luaus ,  Kauai Food Tour , and the best  Kauai Food Trucks !

The post Is a Helicopter Ride in Kauai Worth It? Your Top Questions Answered appeared first on Hawaii Travel with Kids .