MT HUTT | RAKAIA GORGE | SOUTHERN ALPS | EDORAS
SCENIC FLIGHTS
The mountains are calling you for an alpine adventure. Just one hour from Christchurch, departing daily from Methven.
There's a Canterbury most people never see.
Beyond the Canterbury Plains, past where the roads end and the river valleys twist into the ranges, the Southern Alps reveal themselves in full. Braided rivers carve through ancient gorges. Snow holds fast to peaks year-round. Tahr and Chamois move across rock faces that haven't changed in millennia.
This is our backyard. And we'd love to show you around.
Heli Rural offers scenic flights departing from Methven, flying you into the heart of the Mid-Canterbury high country. From a 15-minute introduction to the foothills through to a full glacier flight deep in the Southern Alps, every flight is piloted by locals who know these mountains intimately - because we live beneath them.
No crowds. No tourist queues. Just you, the aircraft, and some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.
Choose your adventure below.
SCENIC FLIGHTS & PRICING
UNIQUE TO HELI RURAL
EXCURSION TO EDORAS
Step into Middle Earth with our exclusive flight to Mount Sunday, the iconic filming location of Edoras, capital of Rohan in The Lord of the Rings. Fly over braided rivers, with alpine backdrops and the wide open valleys of the Rangitata. The very landscape that brought Helm's Deep and the Misty Mountains to life on screen. Land near Mount Sunday for a truly epic photo opportunity and soak up the view that shaped the world of the Riddermark. Add on Lunch at Mt Potts Lodge.
1.5 hours + Landing
$999/ person
NEW FOR WINTER | AVAILABLE NOW!
TAKE FLIGHT TO MT HUTT SKI FIELD
Lift off from the Mt Hutt skifield and fly over snowy mountain wilderness, braided rivers, the Southern Alps and the stunning Canterbury Plains. A true bucket-list experience.
$125pp
❄ Ask about snow landings & photo ops · Minimum passenger numbers & max daily landings apply.
PREMIUM | DEPART FROM THE RESORT
FABLE TERRACE DOWNS
Embark on an unforgettable aerial adventure with helicopter flights departing directly from the stunning Fable Terrace Downs Resort. Soar over the Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps and the Rakaia Gorge, capturing breathtaking views of the South Island.
Whether it’s a scenic joyride, romantic escape or adventure expedition, our experienced pilots ensure a safe, exhilarating journey - with tailored experiences including wilderness landings and flights to nearby attractions.
Discover Canterbury from a whole new perspective - an elevated experience that leaves lasting memories.
FLY IN THE WILD
Soar through the majestic mountains and river valleys of New Zealand for a unique perspective on the country’s rich flora and fauna - from elusive spawning chinook salmon in secluded high-country streams to the regal Himalayan tahr navigating rocky glacier outcrops.
Guided by Scott, an experienced mountain pilot with a deep passion for showcasing these creatures, every moment is a captivating exploration of New Zealand’s diverse ecosystems. Photo opportunities aplenty, with the option for exciting landings.
TAHR | CHAMOIS | SALMON | RED DEER | PIGS