Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Including Scenic Flight
4.9
Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Including Scenic Flight
By Salt Air
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About
Soar above the rugged natural beauty of Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach on a small-group tour from Paihia that combines scenic flights with sightseeing on the ground. Flying to Cape Reinga is a spectacular way to see remote areas of the Far North, and the driving tour features the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, Te Paki sand dunes, and Tapotupotu Bay.
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Ages 0-99, max of 7 per group
Duration: 4h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
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Highlights
- See more of Cape Reinga from air and land with this combo sightseeing tour
- Fly to Cape Reinga for stunning views of the Northland’s remote coastline
- Enjoy an active outing with beach walks and views
- Includes morning tea plus convenient pickup and drop-off at select Paihia hotels for the morning tour
- Scenic flights to and from Cape Reinga
- 2.5-hour guided driving tour around top end of New Zealand
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Hotel pickup/drop-off at selected hotels in Paihia
What's not included- Lunch
- Get picked up at your Paihia accommodations (morning tour only) or meet at the Paihia office for a transfer to the airport, then soar over the Bay of Islands and Ninety Mile Beach on the beautiful flight to Cape Reinga. Once you touch down, begin a minibus tour of Cape Reinga highlights, starting with the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, which looks out over the spot where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Pause for morning or afternoon tea, then take a walk on the beach at Tapotupotu Bay. Then, stop at Te Paki stream to see the giant sand dunes. Following the Cape Reinga tour, board the plane again for the scenic return flight to Paihia, which takes in remote Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay, where you see dazzling white silica dunes and spectacular coastline.
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- Bay of Islands (Kerikeri) Airport, 218 Wiroa Road, Northland, Kerikeri 0293, New ZealandThe Salt Air office at Kerikeri airport is located to the left of the main terminal.
Pickup details- For morning tours, passengers staying in the Paihia/Opua area can be picked up from their accommodation to transfer to the airport. For afternoon tours they would meet at our Paihia office on Marsden Road for pick up. Those staying in the Kerikeri area or further away will meet at the airport for checkin. All passenger should provide their accommodation details when booking so we can advise the pick up or meeting time.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5323CAPE- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- All departures are subject to weather conditions
- During the winter months, due to wet weather, the aircraft may not be able to land at Cape Reinga; on these occasions a 2-hour extended scenic flight option over the Cape area will be offered
- Most travellers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travellers
- All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5323CAPE
From
$507.70
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- terryfF7500LA0 contributionsThe perfect sight seeing trip.My wife and I (both in our seventies) really enjoyed the flight and especially the commentary given by the pilot who had a vast knowledge of the area and pointed out things that would normally be missed by those less knowledgeable. The pilot also tipped us off to a very interesting restaurant. A great experience, well worth the cost.Written 8 March 2025
- Relax100962223770 contributionsUnfriendly front desk.Our ride was great and the pilot was informative, but the lady at the reception was very unfriendly and rude. She didnt want our toddler to make any noise or touch anything so we had to stand out of the office and wait. She wouldnt listen to any of our queries, she just had to read out the rules and get us into the helicopter. As a result the mood of our trip felt so spoilt.Written 8 March 2025
- S1613HTwillh0 contributionsWowGreat views of the bay and the hole in the rock. Helpful staff on the reception and a knowledgeable pilot. Great experienceWritten 10 February 2025
- DarrenL6390 contributionsAmazing AdventureExcellent adventure with Toby. He gave us a slew of information as we flew over the Bay of Islands, working our way to the Hole in the Rock. Near the top of the rock, we landed on a small platform where Toby took us on a walk to some vantage points. Then we flew back to town via a different path. The service at Salt Air and with our pilot were great. We took off just adjacent to the port dock. A wonderful experience.Written 7 February 2025
- utkiwi20140 contributionsUp and away views spectacularWent to see about booking and was up and away in 30 minutes. Pilot gave a superb commentary throughout and we got the best of the weather. If we had booked in advance we would have been wondering and hoping about the weather. An incredible way to see the Bay of Islands in perspective especially if time is tight on your itinerary.Written 22 January 2025
- pomkiandkiwi0 contributionsAwesome Experience with Dalt AirI booked this as it was on my wife's bucket list, and it was our 25th wedding anniversary. She was so excited. Lochie was our pilot and he was great. I couldn't wipe the smile off my wife's face. It is well worth flying with Salt Air as they are very professional, security conscious and fun.Written 29 December 2024
- GeneralShamu0 contributionsPrivate Tour with 2 adults + 1 lap babyWe did the Coastal Discovery Tour and it was excellent all around. They had special ear coverings designed for babies/young children so we were able to safely go on this tour. Mom sits in the front, then they strap the baby in to the mom’s lap with a seatbelt extender. Was great all around and could not recommend them enough!Written 20 December 2024
- Anne1419010 contributionsUnique experience at Bay of Islands NZExcellent from start to finish. Paul was a great pilot and an informative guide! Landing on top of the Hole in the Rick was surreal and unique. Fabulous views and amazing weather! Well worth itWritten 19 December 2024
- MattyBerrry0 contributionsAmazing!We did the heli to the hole in the rock. WOW!!!! It was such an epic experience, especially having been through the hold on a boat the day before. The crew were all super lovely. YOU NEED TO DO THIS.Written 9 December 2024
- E2740CNbilla0 contributionsMust Do ThisThis was our best decision taking this Helicopter Tour. We have been to Paihia, Bay of Islands 4 times previously and we are kicking ourselves for not doing this previously. The only way to see Paihia, Bay of Islands for its beauty.Written 29 November 2024
- Go518139940870 contributionsThe only way to see the bayWow amazing! There is no better way to see the Bay of Islands than on a Salt Air tour. Value for money and a great team. Thanks Salt Air for the experience.Written 25 November 2024
- koaf20240 contributionsSAFE AND MEMORABLEAWESOME. Did the hole in the rock helicopter tour. Spend the little extra money to go land on top. So freaking cool. Josh was our pilot and made it really fun and interesting. My wife was TERRIFIED to go, but after 10 seconds on there with Josh, she relaxed and really enjoyed it. We also brought our 2 year old and he had a great time. They don’t normally tip in NZ, but if you ask them after when paying, they can charge it to your card. If you get Josh, throw a tip his way, he’s worthy of itWritten 11 November 2024
- Prepping0 contributionsBirthday to remember.Can't stay enough about this experience, from the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out. Great friendly service, knowledgeable pilot and breathtaking views. Not often you get to experience something like this. Will remember it always and definitely will be back. Thanks Salt Air.Written 30 September 2024
- petergG6154YF0 contributionsA must do tourSalt Air are the salt of the earth when it comes to seeing the Bay of Islands by helicopter. Our pilot was very knowledgeable and had a firm grip on the history of the various settlements. This is a must do tour.Written 30 September 2024
- DayTrip547976832870 contributionsOnce in a lifetime experienceAbsolutely brilliant! We had the best time, the weather was perfect and our pilots were so friendly and welcoming. We did the Hole in the Rock landing flight and it was so worth it. Spectacular views and we were a little nervous about landing on the platform so it made it really exciting. You get to have a walk around up there which we weren't expecting.Written 27 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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4.9
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petermeierch
Sursee, Switzerland14 contributions
We had a wonderful flight over this fantastic landscape. The many bays and the different colors of nature have impressed us incredibly from a bird's eye view. The approximately 1.5h-long flight and the tour with the small bus is worth every dollar - highly recommended. Thanks to the great pilot and guide Migael!
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Written 28 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
andrew s
Stourbridge, UK2 contributions
Jan 2023
We booked a flight for 5 adults but had a call 2 hours before flying saying the morning flight had been bumpy and advising against us going. The team in the office managed to move things around and get us rebooked for the following day. We were met with a minibus to take us to the airport and then Colin flew us up and explained the various sites. Landed in the field and Colin drove the minibus up to Cape Reinga and the lighthouse. Then a drink and cake at the beach before we all tried sand boarding at another destination. A flight back taking in the other coast line and a final minibus back to the office. All i can say is that 5 adults had a great time, really worth the extra money rather than driving or taking the long coach journey. We thought it was good value for money and a really well run business who were honest and open.
Written 16 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for such an honest and positive review. We're glad to hear you and your group enjoyed the tour! Will pass your thanks onto Colin and the team in the office :)
Written 17 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joe Yong H
5 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
We are really enjoyed the tour. We were initially scheduled for 5 Jan but because of the weather, it was rescheduled seeveral times. The Pilot, Colin, was really prompt in updating us about the weather and try to work things around the bad weather. Thanks to salt air's flexibility, we finally managed to get on the scenic flight to Cape Reinga on 7 Jan. The entire tour was very well paced. Colin made effort to introduce us to the different sights and make sure we get the most out of the tour.
I would highly recommend salt air to anyone. Not just because of what the tour comprises but the service is simply top notch!
I would highly recommend salt air to anyone. Not just because of what the tour comprises but the service is simply top notch!
Written 6 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the positive review! I will pass your thanks onto Colin and the rest of the team. Thank you for being flexible around the weather, it paid off and gave you an amazing day for your tour :)
Written 8 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
micthemini
Northampton, UK84 contributions
Mar 2020
So, I’ll start with the good points:
It was easy to book and we had things explained to us, we were told in advance the sand dunes we closed which wasn’t a problem
We wanted to go to Cape Reinga and fancied a shorted trip than the 11 hours on a coach.
There were only 6 of us booked on the flight.
We were picked up at our accommodation
So the less than good
On arrival at the airport we were told that the plane might not be able to land if it was too windy. We were led to believe that this probably wouldn’t happen but if it did we’d have extra flying time.
We were told it would be bumpy due to the wind.
At this point we were given the option to back out. None of us did as we felt it was a bit late to do so.
So the bad bits
All bar one of us (my husband) had great views. He sat on the last seat on the left, two seats behind the pilot, which had no window, due to the door being there. We thought we could swap seats when we landed thus he’d get to see something on the way back.
We couldn’t land as it was too windy, so all of the journey was a waste of time for him.
On returning to Paihia four of us went into the office to see if we were due any money back as we didn’t land. We were advised not as the plane used extra fuel to take us round the Cape. It was at this point we mentioned about my husband not being able to see anything and the office staff didn’t realise that one seat had no window. Husband had to leave as he was very upset but we did discuss this with the staff, and the other couple on the flight explained how bad it was. We were given a $50 refund each, which helped but for myself and husband the journey was a waste of money given he couldn’t see anything.
I would recommend this trip on the proviso that if you go ensure you don’t sit on the seat by the door as you’ll not see anything. Considering the cost per person is $450NZ for a trip that should take 4 hours but for us was only just over 2, I think it’s not at all value for money when you cannot see anything.
So for husband it was a wasted journey, for me it was good as the sights were amazing.
It was easy to book and we had things explained to us, we were told in advance the sand dunes we closed which wasn’t a problem
We wanted to go to Cape Reinga and fancied a shorted trip than the 11 hours on a coach.
There were only 6 of us booked on the flight.
We were picked up at our accommodation
So the less than good
On arrival at the airport we were told that the plane might not be able to land if it was too windy. We were led to believe that this probably wouldn’t happen but if it did we’d have extra flying time.
We were told it would be bumpy due to the wind.
At this point we were given the option to back out. None of us did as we felt it was a bit late to do so.
So the bad bits
All bar one of us (my husband) had great views. He sat on the last seat on the left, two seats behind the pilot, which had no window, due to the door being there. We thought we could swap seats when we landed thus he’d get to see something on the way back.
We couldn’t land as it was too windy, so all of the journey was a waste of time for him.
On returning to Paihia four of us went into the office to see if we were due any money back as we didn’t land. We were advised not as the plane used extra fuel to take us round the Cape. It was at this point we mentioned about my husband not being able to see anything and the office staff didn’t realise that one seat had no window. Husband had to leave as he was very upset but we did discuss this with the staff, and the other couple on the flight explained how bad it was. We were given a $50 refund each, which helped but for myself and husband the journey was a waste of money given he couldn’t see anything.
I would recommend this trip on the proviso that if you go ensure you don’t sit on the seat by the door as you’ll not see anything. Considering the cost per person is $450NZ for a trip that should take 4 hours but for us was only just over 2, I think it’s not at all value for money when you cannot see anything.
So for husband it was a wasted journey, for me it was good as the sights were amazing.
Written 6 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to post a review, we value all feedback both positive and negative, however we are very disappointed by some of your comments and feel the need to clarify those that are factually incorrect.
Firstly, we would like to clearly point out to anyone reading this that it is incorrect to say her husband did not have a window or view from his seat. ALL of our seats in the plane have their own window, and the “puzzled office staff” was because they knew all seats have a window. So to say he didn’t, is quite misleading and untrue. His seat was by the door, but it also has its own window which is a bit smaller than some of the other windows, however still of a good size for scenic views. We have never had anyone complain about this seat or window before, the entire team is puzzled by your statement. We have posted some photos on our TripAdvisor page of someone sitting in that seat with the window so you can judge for yourself.
Secondly, we were quite upfront about the forecast windy conditions and genuinely offered all passengers the ability to opt out of doing it if they weren’t happy. The wind was not forecast to increase until after the scheduled arrival time at the airstrip, however after almost 30yrs operating on this very narrow peninsula we are aware things can change quickly hence we make sure passengers are aware this could happen when cross winds are forecast. On this particular day the wind did increase earlier than predicted and due to safety concerns after attempting a landing the pilot executed a missed approach and made the decision it was not safe enough to continue landing and elected to fly around Cape Reinga. Your choice to continue prior to the flight commencing was your decision and we would have been fine to refund you if you had decided at that point not to fly. Because we didn’t land, the flight was extended as a result to compensate. From experience, our customers have always been happy with this as an option when we can’t land as the scenic views are beautiful. To be clear it is due to the safety of the passengers and that alone we did not land. The very reason we discuss this with passengers prior to commencing the flight is to ensure there is no undue pressure placed on our pilots to land by disappointed passengers while in the air.
Finally, we would like readers to look at and consider all of our other 400+ reviews which ranked us as excellent and consider for yourselves whether this one review should influence you or not. We feel our exemplary reputation and history should speak for itself.
Written 7 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sara
30 contributions
Aug 2021
Words can't describe the beautiful views you get on this scenic flight, we're so pleased we did it. Our pilot Sam was brilliant and gave a great commentary pointing out things and places of interest and was happy to answer any questions we had. At this time of year it's just a scenic flight right to the top of the cape and back which we loved as you get to see the lighthouse from the air which gives a totally different perspective from seeing it from the ground. If you're heading North would definately recommend this trip, even our two kids can't stop raving about it.
Written 12 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That's awesome you all enjoyed the Cape Reinga fly-around! It's just stunning views up north so we are happy we were able to share it all with you and your family.
Written 15 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Maps797244
Auckland, New Zealand1 contribution
Mar 2022
A completely amazing trip. Can't think of a better way to travel to the far north and see the truly epic nature of the land and scenery. All the organisation and logistics were flawless - booking, confirming, adjusting the schedule to optimise for the best weather were all done well. Sam our pilot was brilliant - great stories, anecdotes and information during the flight and on the land as well as being an awesome pilot. Talked us through the whole trip, great safety brief and checkins around any nerves or worries.
So can't recommend this trip highly enough
So can't recommend this trip highly enough
Written 20 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback, we are so pleased you enjoyed the tour.
Written 7 April 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SharynT
3 contributions
Apr 2022
I would totally recommend this amazing trip to anyone wanting to see The Far North. The scenery is majestic. Our pilot, tour guide and driver Sam, was throughly engaging and very personable with an in depth knowledge of the area, sharing informative titbits as we flew, even sharing some of his favourite camping spots. Sam even pointed out some sharks and sting rays. This trip with Sam’s narration is a great way to promote the area.
Thanks Sam and Salt Air for the highlight of our holiday to Northland. Once again I throughly recommend this adventure to all.
Thanks Sam and Salt Air for the highlight of our holiday to Northland. Once again I throughly recommend this adventure to all.
Written 25 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wow thanks so much for the wonderful feedback and recommendation, it's much appreciated. We are so pleased to hear you thoroughly enjoyed your Cape Reinga tour with us and we agree, it's a fantastic way to see the stunning scenery of the Far North from the air! Many thanks from the Salt Air team.
Written 5 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Passenger43614141164
1 contribution
Jun 2024 • Family
Wow! This was an experience of a lifetime. Life long memories.Great organisation and communication from the start. Our Pilot & Tour guide was so knowledgeable & fun, legends! We highly recommend Salty Air trips to all who are thinking of it. A must do on your visit to New Zealand! John,James & Jamene
Written 28 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah C
Wellington, New Zealand26 contributions
Dec 2020
Can't rate this highly enough. I acknowledge it's a treat because of the cost, but absolutely worth every cent. The experience of flying in such a little plane, soaking up fabulous views everywhere you look can't be overstated. Sam (pilot) is very professional so we felt absolutely safe the entire time. I was expecting the landings to be a bit bumpy so was really impressed that they were so smooth. Sam provided enough commentary to let us know key facts about the area but not constant chatter, letting the view speak for itself. Same approach during the time on the ground - Cape Reinga is a special place and it was lovely to avoid the long trawl via road. Hard to put into words just how beautiful the area is and the birds eye view and route give plenty of time to soak it in. A fabulous far north experience that will never be forgotten.
Written 30 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your excellent review and wonderful description of your experience on Cape Reinga tour. It certainly is a special place and we love being able to share the journey up there and back with amazing scenic views from above.
Written 31 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CDB404
Tunbridge Wells62 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
An amazing experience and opportunity to see the stunning parts of Northland that you will treasure long after the day. This small group tour is the perfect way to see Northland from the air and ground. It was one of the very top things we did during our time in New Zealand. Jonathan was our pilot and guide for the afternoon, he was informative, very friendly and ensured that all passengers had an opportunity to see the wonders of the area. From Cape Reinga, to afternoon tea at a wonderful beach to the high sand dunes, to flying over 90 mile beach everything was perfect.
Thank you to the entire team for making our time so special.
Thank you to the entire team for making our time so special.
Written 2 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
No questions have been asked about this experience
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.