Scenic Flights from Nelson
Short on time but looking to experience more of the beautiful Nelson/Tasman region? Enjoy one of Golden Bay Air's stunning scenic flights from Nelson Airport.
To the west, the glistening waters and golden sands of the Abel Tasman, and beyond to the unique Farewell Spit and the spectacular Wharariki Sea Arches. Choose combinations of Abel Tasman National Park, Farewell Spit, West Coast or the extraordinary Kahurangi National Park. Or if you can't decide, fly them all with our Golden Bay Grand Tour.
To the south, immerse yourself in the dramatic snow-capped mountains and glacial valleys of Nelson Lakes National Park.
To the east, the explore the strikingly intricate Marlborough Sounds.
On-demand scenic flight options
Fly Abel Tasman
Leave the city behind and cross the orchards and vineyards surrounding Motueka to cross the ‘Marble Mountain’—Takaka Hill. Passing over the Canaan Downs (a Lord of the Rings filming location), take a glimpse down the dark depths of Harwoods Hole. An expansive view of Golden Bay's secret green valleys and clear rivers awaits, before you trace the beautiful golden sand bays, estuaries and azure waters of the glorious Abel Tasman National Park back to base.
| Flight time | 50 mins | |
| Min 2 fares | $499pp |
Fly Marlborough Sounds
Pass by Nelson port and boulder bank to view the tidal surges at French Pass, separating D'Urville Island with the mainland. Witness the intricate network of beautiful bushfringed fiords that make up the Marlborough Sounds, marvelling at the constantly changing colours before returning via pictureque towns of Picton and Havelock.
| Flight time | 60 mins | |
| Min 2 fares | $549pp |
Fly Kahurangi Peaks
Climb away from the city and cross the patchwork of orchards and vineyards to the marble karst moonscapes of Mount Arthur. Then fly deeper in to the spectacular Kahurangi National Park to view New Zealand's highest hydro lake—the Cobb Reservoir, learning about the fascinating gold mining history of the Park. Witness valleys carved by ancient glaciers, remote goldmining dams and spectacular mountain scenery including the aptly named 'Dragons Teeth'. Return via the Takaka Valley with a glimpse down Harwoods Hole.
| Flight time | 70 mins | |
| Min 2 fares | $599pp |
Fly Farewell Spit/Abel Tasman
Even those short on time can experience the windswept and spectacular sand formation that is Farewell Spit, one of the world's longest natural sandbars. Leave the city behind and cross the orchards and vineyards surrounding Motueka to ‘Marble Mountain’—Takaka Hill. Take a glimpse down the dark depths of Harwoods Hole then sidle past Kahurangi mountains over Golden Bay's secret green valleys and clear rivers to the west coast and dramatic Wharariki sea arches. Trace the dunes and lakes up the Spit to the refuge of its lighthouse. Return via sheltered golden sand bays, estuaries and azure waters of the glorious Abel Tasman National Park.
| Flight time | 80 mins | |
| Min 2 fares | $649pp |
Fly Nelson Lakes
In this single flight you will experience some of the most spectacular and diverse mountain scenery in New Zealand. Once you have left Nelson's shoreline, cross over the patchwork of orchards and vinyards to explore some of the most stunning sections of Kahurangi National Park including its highest peak, Mount Owen's unique glaciated marble karst (Dimrill Dale in LOTR). Fly up gorgeous Lake Rotoroa to Lakes Constance and the jewel-like Blue Lake (clearest water in the world). Flying amongst the highest peaks in the Park. Return via Lake Rotoiti and the curiously barren Red Hills on the Richmond Range.
| Flight time | 90 mins | |
| Min 2 fares | $699pp |
Fly Grand Tour
The ultimate experience, Golden Bay Air's Grand Tour scenic flight covers the whole North-west corner of the South Island! Fly over jagged mountains in Kahurangi to sheer limestone cliffs and tumbling ocean on the West Coast. Circle the extraordinary Wharariki Sea Arches before tracing the dunes and lakes of Farewell Spit. Return via the golden beaches of Abel Tasman. This is a one of a kind flight in Aotearoa New Zealand, with one of the most diverse range of landscapes on offer.
| Flight time | 100 mins | |
| Min 2 fares | $749pp |
