Rakaia Glaciers
Get to know the real, untouched New Zealand as you take off, heading west over the gridded Canterbury Plains towards the well-known braided Waimakariri River, over the undulating foothills and alongside the sheer sides of the Waimakariri Gorge. As the pilot traces the gorge upstream, notice the Craigieburn Basin come into view, a distinguished blockbuster film set and in to the curious rock scape of Castle Hill. Catch the glisten of Lake Pearson as you fly by the Southern Alps’ main divide, climbing up and over the ridge line, to debut at the Wilberforce River and tributaries of the mighty Rakaia River. Without another aircraft in sight, come to two of Canterbury’s best kept secrets – the rarely visited Lyell and the Ramsay Glaciers due to their inaccessibility. Keep a sharp eye out for the bold wildlife tussling with the rock-strewn terrain. Touch down to overwhelming 360 degree views, filled with staggeringly sharp mountaintops and turquoise waters of the glacier lakes.
Enjoy a platter in the amphitheatre of the outdoors without a single disruption. Reboard the helicopter and fly downstream to one of the most classic views of the high-country, the shelter of a timeless Department of Conservation (DOC) hut, used still today by hunters and trappers. Rise over the depths of Lake Coleridge where one of New Zealand’s first hydro-electric stations churns on, and return over the Canterbury Plains, inbound for Christchurch.
Terry Murdoch
Chief Executive Officer / Pilot
Richie McCaw
Pilot
Kevin Walsh
Guimbal Sales Manager / Pilot
Aaron Boddy
Engineer / Pilot
Scott Snellex
CFI - Chief Flight Instructor / Pilot
Tim Murdoch
CEO CHL Part 135 / Marketing Manager / Pilot
Jack Murdoch
CEO CHL Agriculture / Pilot
Chris Johnson
Pilot / Health and Safety
Bring a camera, sturdy foot ware, and warm clothing – especially for the Southern Alps Tour.
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your flight to allow time for a briefing.
Our pilots are all very experienced and very current in each Helicopter. They are also trained to the highest of standards to ensure maximum safety for our clients.
Our most popular tour that we do is the Southern Alps Tour. It’s Richie’s favourite flight!
Of course! All our flights are completely customisable – just give the team at Christchurch Helicopters a call to create a once in a lifetime experience.