Question 1

Before You Book

Accepted Answer

We highly recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred date and time. It is also wise to book for the first day of your visit to the Mackenzie region, which allows flexibility for rescheduling due to weather.

Please note:
 • Minimum numbers apply for all flights. Bookings will be coordinated to achieve this where possible. 
 • We operate two types of helicopters. One can hold up to 3/4 passengers or a maximum combined weight of 350kg, and the other can hold up to 5/6 passengers or a maximum combined weight of 500kg.
 • For bookings on the day, please call the office on +64 21 479 285 to confirm availability. 
 • Prices are valid until 30th September 2026.
 • Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
 • Infants under 2 years of age can fly free of charge as long as they are sitting on an adult's lap. A child seatbelt will be provided. Children aged 2 years and over are required to occupy their own seat and pay the full price fare.
 • Please read our Cancellation Policy ()before booking.

Question 2

Get Ready to Fly

Accepted Answer

Departure Location
 • All flights depart and return from Mackenzie Helicopter's base, situated 7km south of Lake Tekapo township — SH8, 697 Tekapo-Twizel Road, Lake Tekapo
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Departure Times and Check-In
 • Please call +64 21 479 285 ()at least 24 hours before departure to reconfirm your booking
 • Weather check – due to changeable weather conditions, your weather check is at the same time as check-in
 • Please arrive 30 minutes before departure time for check-in and safety briefing
What to Bring
 • Warm clothing, e.g. jacket, beanie, gloves
 • Comfortable and sturdy shoes
 • Sunglasses and sunscreen
 • Phone and camera (please ensure large cameras are on a strap)
What to Leave Behind
 • Bags
 • Selfie sticks and iPads are not permitted 
 • Loose clothing, e.g. hats and scarves
 • Dangerous goods

Question 3

Cancellation Policy

Accepted Answer

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with a minimum of 24 hours' cancellation notice.
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Customers will receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the total price.
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Customers cancelling within 24 hours of departure and/or are no-shows will be charged the total price.
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Read our full Cancellation Policy here.()

Question 4

Safety

Accepted Answer

At Mackenzie Helicopters, safety is our top priority. We are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of our guests, employees, and the environment in every aspect of our operations.

Our team of skilled, highly-trained professional pilots possesses extensive experience navigating the challenging alpine terrain. Their expertise spans various sectors, from tourism to agriculture and commercial operations.
Mackenzie Helicopters holds a Civil Aviation Part 135 Air Transport certificate and a CAA Part 137 Agricultural Operators certificate, demonstrating our commitment to regulatory compliance. Our fleet of helicopters undergoes regular maintenance by licensed aircraft engineers, ensuring they are always in top condition.
We prioritise safety above all else and operate under a CAA-approved Safety Management System (SMS). This system incorporates international best practices and risk management guidelines to protect our pilots, passengers, and staff.

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