We were picked up from our accommodation in an antique limo, and we were driven to the lift off point by a super sweet woman.
At the lift off point, we were given biscuits and tea (or coffee), which seems to be an NZ thing (which is so perfect). We talked with a guide about safety in the heli, and then they had us sit with our tea and short bread while they took a flight out themselves to survey the weather conditions.
When they came back, we were helped into the helicopter. (We got their smallest because there were only two of us traveling, which was so awesome!)
The pilot was very informative and talked to us throughout the flight via the headsets we were provided. The front seat of the helicopter allowed me to see under my feet and all around me; the back seat where my husband was allowed for almost the same visibility.
Our goal was to touch down on a peak, but the wind conditions didn’t allow for it. I was glad that the pilot took safety seriously and didn’t just plop a giant machine down without careful consideration. We also tried to land by the river, and when we did, he felt the conditions were too finicky for my husband and me to get out. He worried the wind might cause a heli tip without our weights inside it. Again, I was grateful that he took our safety so seriously.
From there, we flew back to the lift off point and were driven back in the antique limo by the pilot. He continued conversation with us about the area the entire way back.
I’d definitely recommend checking out Te Anau this way!!
