Everything you need to know about Queenstown Heli Elopements.

Helicopter elopements are becoming increasingly popular. There are many reasons why (see my blog on the benefits of eloping). For most, the main benefits are the intimacy, and of course, the epic views and photo opportunities.

When planning a heli elopement there are many different options to choose from, and it can quickly become overwhelming. If you’d rather not worry about any of the planning, we offer bespoke elopement packages, tailored to you. We plan and organise everything for you, to take the pressure off and allow you to simply enjoy a perfectly organised day. However, If you’re interested in planning the day yourself, I’ll answer the most frequently asked questions and simplify the process below. It doesn’t have to be daunting and I’m here to help :)

Step 1 - Choose your photographer.

Choosing your photographer is one of the most important step in the process. There is a wealth of amazing photographers to choose from here in Queenstown, and each will bring their own expertise and flair to the table.

Do some research and choose someone whose work resonates with you. Reach out and start a conversation too. Most photographers will happily chat with you and make sure that they’re a good fit.

If you’re interested in booking me to capture your big day, you can get in touch anytime via my contact page :)

Celebrant Sarah Noble with Tash and Scott on Bayonet Peak.

Step 2 - Choose your celebrant.

Choosing your celebrant is right up there with choosing your photographer. They’re a crucial part of the big day and it’s important to choose someone that you vibe with. Again, here in Queenstown, we have a wealth of amazing celebrants to choose from, and doing some research will help hugely. Google is your best friend here. Have a quick search, read some “about” pages and send some enquiries.

Your celebrant will also provide all of your paperwork and marriage certificates.

I have had the pleasure of working with many amazing celebrants here in Queenstown. Here are some of my personal recommendations.

Andrew Bell - https://www.andrewbellcelebrant.co.nz/

My wife and I chose Andrew for our elopement and he was simply amazing. He make us feel incredibly comfortable throughout the whole booking process and was friendly and professional throughout. I can’t recommend him enough.

Sarah Noble - https://www.marriagecelebrant.co.nz/

Philippa Thomas - https://www.philippathomascelebrant.com/

Celebrant Sarah Noble with Tash and Scott at Bayonet Peak.

Step 3 - Book your helicopter.

There are many many different companies that offer elopement services in Queenstown. The only real variable is price and availability. Most companies will land at the same locations and give you the same amount of time at each spot.

I fly a lot with Heliworks and Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters. They both offer a fantastic service and are super easy to book with. They’ll be able to talk you through your options and offer plenty of super helpful advice.

Heliworks - https://www.queenstownhelicopters.nz/

Glacier Southern Lakes - https://www.southernlakeshelicopters.co.nz/

Step 4 - Choose your location.

Queenstown and Central Otago have an abundance of amazing locations to choose from. The closest to Queenstown and most popular being Cecil Peak and The Remarkables. Both of these locations are just a short flight from the airport and offer incredible views over Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps.

If you’re interested in flying further afield, there are countless epic locations to choose from. The further away the location is, generally, the more it costs to access. Some locations also have a landing fee as they lie on private land.

Some personal favourites are Bayonet Peak, Coromandel Peak, and Foggy Peak. Lake Erskine, Earnslaw Burn and the Tyndall Glacier are also stunning.

When choosing your location, it’s definitely beneficial to discuss the options with the heli company and your photographer. They will likely be able to provide recommendations and info based on your preferences.

Here are some photos from various locations around Queenstown.

Step 5 - Hair & makeup & flowers..

Once you have a date set, your photographer and celebrant booked, and your locations are chosen, the next things to organise are hair and makeup and flowers. As the elopement capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is home to an array of talented makeup artists, hairdressers and florists.

Again, this is an area that is personal to you and doing some research will be invaluable. Do some Googling and find local vendors that fit your style.

Some personal recommendations are -

https://www.arrowtownhair.nz/

https://www.hairtowed.co.nz/

http://www.evemakeupartistry.co.nz/

https://www.theflowerroom.co.nz/

https://www.allbunchedupflorals.com/

Step 6 - Finishing touches.

By this stage you’ve got the big things locked in, you’re almost ready to go. But before you say “I do” there are a few last-minute details to consider.

Accommodation - If you’re eloping in Queenstown you’ll likely be staying here for at least a couple of days. There are countless beautiful places to stay in and around Queenstown. I recommend checking out Air BnB for some amazing local boutique accommodation.

Jewellery - If you don’t already have rings picked out, check out the amazingly talented team at VU Jewellers https://www.vujewellers.co.nz/. They make breathtaking jewellery and also offer a cleaning service to ensure that your rings are nice and sparkly for the big day.

Hopefully, this blog provided some help for those wishing to plan their perfect Queenstown helicopter elopement.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime. You can get in touch here.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my website and read this, I really appreciate it.

All the best for your big day and enjoy the beautiful Queenstown.

Love.

Ryan.

Blog

A guide to planning your Queenstown helicopter elopement.