Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand

Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

Outty Ranking 55 5.0 · 8 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $987
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Outty Ranking

55/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 8 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown worth booking?

Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown is a 1.5-hour experience in Queenstown, New Zealand, from $987 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 8 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
55 / 100
Rating
5/5 (8)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$987 per person

The only helicopter experience that combines a Milford Sound flyover with two incredible landings — a remote alpine peak and the cinematic Earnslaw Burn showcasing a hanging glacier.

What you get

    About this experience

    The only helicopter experience that combines a Milford Sound flyover with two incredible landings — a remote alpine peak and the cinematic Earnslaw Burn showcasing a hanging glacier.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pickup and dropoff
    • Live commentary during the flight
    • Shared experience
    • Pilot guide
    • Scenic helicopter flight with two landings (one alpine & one exclusive Earnslaw Burn)

    Not included

    • Meals

    What you'll see and do

    1. Queenstown

      Depart Queenstown – Begin your adventure with a scenic departure from Queenstown, soaring over the glistening waters of Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding alpine landscapes.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Milford Sound

      Take in the awe-inspiring views of Milford Sound from above, as you glide past towering cliffs, ancient glaciers, and the iconic Mitre Peak, all framed by the deep blue waters of the fiord.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Fiordland National Park

      Touch down in a remote alpine location. Step out onto untouched snow or rocky terrain to capture panoramic photos of Fiordland’s dramatic peaks and valleys.

      10 minutes here

    4. Continue your journey to the spectacular and exclsuive Earnslaw Burn, an alpine valley famous for its cascading waterfalls and the magnificent hanging glacier featured in The Hobbit films. Enjoy time to explore, take photos, and soak in this cinematic landscape.

      20 minutes here

    5. Queenstown

      Conclude your experience with a scenic return flight, showcasing sweeping vistas of the Southern Alps and sparkling lakes.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Queenstown

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Heliworks Queenstown Helicopter Flights

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown, photo 2Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown, photo 3Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown, photo 4Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown, photo 5Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown, photo 6

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 8 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    8 verified traveler reviews for Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    8
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    edmundb608 · September 2026

    Do the helicopter trip to Milford sounds

    Best experience ever. Jacko the chief pilot was outstanding. A windy day and he is just amazing. Interactive and entertaining. Michele the host is exceptional too. Even if you a bit scared - do this!!!!

    Response from the operator: Hi Edmund, Thank you so much for the amazing review! We’re so glad you had such a great experience flying to Milford Sound. We’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to Jacko and Michelle. Thanks again for joining us, and we hope to see you back in Queenstown again soon.

    via Tripadvisor

    primeonetx · May 2026

    Best experience of your life

    One of the best experiences of my entire life -- and I have traveled the world. The company is expertly run from booking through goodbye, full of kind and attentive people. The flight is smooth, careful and stunning. Every seat has a great view and we rotated seats, back to front, throughout. Splurge and take the long trip. Even the lunch is gourmet. Valium was our pilots and he explained the exactly right amount, not too much, not too little. If you do nothing else with your money the rest of the year, do this.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for this incredible review! We are honoured to be a highlight of your global travels. We’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to your pilot and the rest of our team. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you on board again someday!

    via Tripadvisor

    D8693NYulrikeb · March 2026

    Incredilbe experience

    Scotty was an excellent Pilot with great knowledge of the mountains and surrounds. He kept us newbees to Helicopter flying so calm. The food we had at the Picnic from Franks was incredible. What an amazing experience, we won't forget in a hurry.

    via Tripadvisor

    peterr130 · October 2025

    On top of the world

    As a wedding present to my wife we set out with our wonderful pilot John aka Taupo to Milford Sound for a cruise. The cruise was amazing but the flight there and back left us speechless. John was fantastic and gave us a wonderful briefing on the history of the area as we flew over Glenorchy and Earnslaw Burn but we would have to say that the two landings on seperate glaciers were just brilliant. It truly was like being on top of the world and we now have amazing photos but also memories indelibly stamped in our brains of the the most wonderful day of our honeymoon. Truly unforgettable!! Thank you John for making the day so special.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much, Peter, for taking the time to share such an incredible review. We're absolutely thrilled to hear your Milford experience was such a highlight of your honeymoon, what an amazing way to celebrate. It’s wonderful to hear John (Taupo) helped make the day so memorable with his knowledge and passion for the area. Those glacier landings truly are something special, and we’re so glad you both got to experience them in perfect conditions. Wishing you and your wife all the best for this next chapter together, and hopefully we’ll see you again for another adventure someday.

    via Tripadvisor

    Melissa K · September 2025

    The highlight of our trip

    This is why I wanted to come to Queenstown and it was better than I could have imagined. All day we could only describe it at WOW!!! Spectacular in every way. Worth every cent and I’d definitely do it again. Landing in the snow on the glacier and having a play was the absolute highlight of our trip. All the staff were friendly and helpful. We combined the cruise thru Milford Sound which was beautiful too. Dress warm!! **New travellers** Traffic in the morning from Queenstown to the helipad was a standstill. It took over 30 mins in the morning and only 10 mins back in the avo. Don’t miss your flight!!

    Response from the operator: Kia Melissa Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled to hear the flight and glacier landing were the highlight of your trip – WOW indeed! 😊 It’s great to hear you enjoyed combining it with the Milford Sound cruise, and we appreciate the helpful tips for new travellers.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $987 to $1,695
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Heliworks Queenstown Helicopter Flights, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.4.

    See everything Heliworks Queenstown Helicopter Flights runs

    Why this scores 55

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)93
    Review evidence (18% weight)30
    Booking momentum (14% weight)22
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)58
    Local standing (8% weight)55
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Queenstown.

    How much does Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown cost?

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    Prices start at $987 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Queenstown usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown take?

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    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Queenstown is not rushed.

    Is Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 8 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Queenstown, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown?

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    Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Queenstown can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Queenstown and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Queenstown within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Queenstown?

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    On Outty we rank every Queenstown experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown, Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown, Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Queenstown?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Queenstown?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown?

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    Included: Hotel pickup and dropoff; Live commentary during the flight; Shared experience; Pilot guide; and Scenic helicopter flight with two landings (one alpine & one exclusive Earnslaw Burn). Not included: Meals. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 47 listed pickup locations in and around Queenstown. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Milford Sound Earnslaw Burn Helicopter Tour from Queenstown?

    +

    Across 8 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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