Tongariro National Park Scenic Flights

Description

Experience the thrill of flying over some of New Zealand’s most spectacular terrain with a scenic flight over the World Heritage Site of Tongariro National Park. This amazing Volcanic Park is so precious, that it was the second area in the world (after Yellowstone in America) to be declared a National Park. Now that’s impressive!

The dramatic landscape of Tongariro National Park ensures breathtaking views, as you fly over the three live craters of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu. The rugged volcanic terrain is offset beautifully by the amazing lakes on the mountains; the Emerald Lakes, the Blue Lake and the Tama Lakes. Make sure you have your camera handy as you learn about these spectacular mountains – which were presented to the people of New Zealand by the Chief of the Tuwharetoa tribe, Te Heuheu Tukino IV, in 1887.

Tongariro Crossing - 15 minutes flying time
As you soar around Mt Tongariro's volcanic craters, you will see the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the perfect cone of Mt Ngauruhoe (‘Mt Doom’ in the Lord of the Rings), the stunning Chateau Tongariro Resort and gorgeous alpine lakes.

Northern Circuit - 25 minutes flying time
The Northern Circuit allows you to view an extended version of the Tongariro Crossing flight, with a more detailed look at the spectacular craters of Mt Tongariro, alpine lakes and Mt Ngauruhoe.

The Volcanic Explorer - from Mt Ruapehu - 35 minutes flying time
This flight is Mountain Air’s most requested flight. Experience the majestic views of all three of Tongariro Park’s volcanoes from 10,000 feet. This flight also includes views of the active crater lake of Mt Ruapehu, as well as Lord of the Rings filming sites.

The Volcanic Explorer - from Taupo - 60 minutes flying time
This flight is Mountain Air’s most requested flight. Experience the majestic views of all three of Tongariro Park’s volcanoes from 10,000 feet. This flight also includes views of the active crater lake of Mt Ruapehu, as well as Lord of the Rings filming sites. This flight includes flying over the beautiful Huka Falls and Wairakei geothermal area 

Trip Includes

• Views of the volcanic Tongariro National Park & World Heritage Site
• Scenes from past & present volcanic activity
• Views of the Ketetahi Hot Springs, Blue Lake, Emerald Lakes, Red Crater, Tama Lakes, Tongariro Crossing one day walk, the central desert, native forests of the Park, the tussock country, sheep farmlands & Lake Taupo, the biggest crater lake of them all
• Outstanding photographic opportunities
• Scenic flight with informative commentary & guaranteed window seat
• Return transfers available from Whakapapa Village & National Park Village

Duration

• Allow 1 - 2 hours

Departures

• Flights depart daily on demand from 8 am
• Make your own way to Chateau Airport at the intersection of the turn-off to Whakapapa Ski Area, Mt Ruapehu & State Highway 47
• Operates all year

Other Information

• Flights are weather dependent
• Child rates apply (3-12yrs)
• Infants 2 years & under FOC
• Maximum individual passenger weight is 130 kg
• Minimum of 2 adult passengers are required to confirm all flights. If you are travelling on your own then we may be able to confirm the flight with other bookings

*** This tour is currently unavailable, for Helicopter Flights over Tongariro National Park CLICK HERE ***

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