Tour operator
Nomad Safaris
A Queenstown 4WD tour company running small-group trips into Skippers Canyon, Macetown and Lord of the Rings filming locations around the Wakatipu Basin.
Over The Top Helicopters
A Queenstown helicopter company flying since 1986, offering scenic flights to Milford Sound, glacier landings, alpine picnics and heli-golf from Queenstown Airport.
At a glance
- Type
- Helicopter scenic flights
- Area
- Queenstown Airport, Queenstown, New Zealand
- Official site
- flynz.co.nz
Good to know
- Milford Sound flights
- Glacier landings
- Alpine picnics
- Complimentary shuttle
Why we recommend it
Over The Top Helicopters has been flying visitors over the Southern Alps since 1986, when pilot Louisa Patterson, known as Choppy, began offering flights to the hidden corners of New Zealand. The company now has more than 40 years of experience in the region and operates from the Blue Hangar at Queenstown Airport, at 10 Tex Smith Lane.
Its flights cover a wide range. Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound scenic flights take you over the mountains of Fiordland to the fiords, and longer trips land on the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers on the West Coast. Closer to home there are helicopter tours of Otago wineries, heli-skiing and an alpine lunch picnic on a private high country station. The signature trip is the Milford Ultimate, a four-hour experience, and the most unusual is Over The Top Golf, which includes a flight to a par-three hole at about 4,500 feet. Bespoke experiences can be arranged for those with particular ideas.
The fleet is made up of Airbus Helicopters, the H125 Squirrel and the H130, chosen for their performance and safety margins in mountainous terrain. Complimentary shuttles run from the company's downtown location, The Clubhouse, or from your accommodation to the helipad at Queenstown Airport, and should be requested when you book.
Helicopter flights depend on the weather more than most activities. If conditions prevent flying, your reservation is rolled over to the next available day, and if no other day works, a refund is offered. The company advises booking on your first available day in Queenstown and keeping spare days in your itinerary in case you need to reschedule. Prices are quoted in New Zealand dollars.
Dress for the mountains rather than the town: wear long trousers and layers you can add or remove, and closed-toe shoes such as trainers or hiking shoes. Avoid sandals, high heels, flip-flops and slippers. Conditions in the alpine environment can change quickly and feel colder than in Queenstown.
Helicopter flights suit couples marking an occasion, travellers short on time who want to see Milford Sound without the long drive, and anyone wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Southern Alps. Book online through the company's website or by phone.
Over The Top Helicopters FAQs
Where do Over The Top flights depart from?
From the Blue Hangar, 10 Tex Smith Lane, at Queenstown Airport. Free shuttles run from The Clubhouse downtown or your accommodation.
When was the company founded?
Over The Top began flying in 1986, founded by pilot Louisa Patterson.
Can you fly to Milford Sound?
Yes. Milford Sound scenic flights are offered, and the signature Milford Ultimate trip lasts four hours.
What helicopters are used?
Airbus H125 Squirrel and H130 helicopters.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Your booking is moved to the next available day, and if no rescheduling is possible a refund is offered.
What should I wear?
Long trousers, layers and closed-toe shoes. Avoid sandals, heels, flip-flops and slippers.
Is there a golf experience?
Yes. Over The Top Golf includes a flight to a par-three hole at about 4,500 feet.
Do they land on glaciers?
Yes. Flights with landings on the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are available.