Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour

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.