We booked the Fly Cruise Fly trip for the first full day of our holiday. Although Queenstown was experiencing glorious weather, Milford Sound unfortunately was not. Excellent communications from Glenorchy Air saw us re/book for the following day, and two more times after that as between storms and wind it just wasn't safe to fly.
On the last day of our holiday, Glenorchy Air called to say that they were just waiting for fog to lift so we were picked up and taken to the airport to prepare. Again, sadly, after a short wait, the fog didn't play ball and the forecast was for the weather to deteriorate we were unable to go. Sooooo disappointed but absolutely understand that it is all subject to the weather which cannot be controlled.
However, Glenorchy Air offered us the option of a scenic flight around Mount Aspiring which the birthday girl Kim and I jumped at because it sounded like a great opportunity and we were already at the airport so why not do it when we can.
We were sooooo glad that we took up the offer as it was simply STUNNING and AMAZING! Ben the pilot was very informative. The day was spectacular with not many bumps, and when there were bumps Ben assured us that made it more interesting (AHHH!!!) . Our other 6 friends who didn't take up the offer seriously missed out, we just found it to be completely spectacular!! Snow capped peaks everywhere, went all the way to the east coast of NZ, saw glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, walking tracks and huts, and it felt like you could reach out and touch the mountains. Absolutely the highlight of the trip. If you get this opportunity DO IT. Well worth seeing the region from the birds eye perspective. Magical. Now working on another visit because we still have to get to Milford Sound! See you again soon Glenorchy Air.
Thanks so much!!