Earnslaw Burn Explorer

The Earnslaw Burn Explorer takes your adventure to the next level. Not only do you get exclusive access to the breathtaking Earnslaw Burn — with its dramatic “hanging” glacier, cascading waterfalls, and blue ice — but you’ll also enjoy a second alpine landing in the remote high country for even more incredible views.

Heliworks and our sister company, Heli Glenorchy, are the only operators permitted to land at the stunning Earnslaw Burn. Your flight begins with sweeping views over historic Skippers Canyon, where gold-mining relics still cling to steep schist cliffs. Then, we make our first landing right on the valley floor of the Earnslaw Burn. Surrounded by waterfalls in summer, or the towering, snow-laden glacier in winter*, it’s a place that feels worlds away from everyday life.

After taking it all in, we lift off again and head to a second, elevated alpine location, a pristine and remote mountain landing that offers unbeatable panoramas over the Southern Alps. It’s the perfect contrast to the lush, glacier-carved valley below.

*In winter months (June – August) the Earnslaw Burn does not have as many fast flowing waterfalls compared to our spring and summer months (September – March). It is still a stunning and magical location to visit during winter as there is usually extra snow coverage on the glacier and throughout the valley.

Why book the Earnslaw Burn Explorer today?

• Plenty of time on the ground to explore, take photos, and simply take it all in.
• Two stunning landings: one in the iconic Earnslaw Burn and another high in the Southern Alps
• Exclusive access to the Earnslaw Burn — only with Heliworks and Heli Glenorchy
• Fly over Queenstown’s legendary Skippers Canyon and rugged high country
• Witness seasonal shifts: gushing waterfalls in summer, glowing blue glacier in winter
• Perfect for private charters, scenic photography, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience
• Plenty of time on the ground to explore, take photos, and simply take it all in