Wedding package
Earnslaw Burn Heli Wedding
A helicopter elopement in a hidden valley of cascading waterfalls near Glenorchy — pure New Zealand magic.
A wedding in a hidden valley
Earnslaw Burn is one of New Zealand’s most remarkable helicopter wedding locations. A scenic flight from Queenstown, you’ll fly across the Southern Alps before landing in a remote alpine valley surrounded by towering cliffs, glaciers and cascading waterfalls. It’s a place that feels untouched by time and one that very few people ever have the opportunity to experience.
Earnslaw Burn was featured as a filming location in The Hobbit trilogy, making it an unforgettable destination for couples who dream of exchanging their vows in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine landscapes.
Your wedding is wonderfully intimate. With only the two of you, your celebrant and your photographer, you’ll have the valley almost entirely to yourselves, allowing you to simply pause, breathe and enjoy every moment together.
I arrange the helicopter flight, access permission, timings and every detail of your day, so all you need to do is relax, take it all in and say, “I do.”
What your day looks like
Your wedding day begins at your Queenstown accommodation, where your hair and makeup artist will come to you, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable start to the morning. While you’re getting ready, your photographer captures the special details, including your dress, flowers, jewellery and those quiet moments before the day begins.
Once you’re ready, you’ll make your way to the helicopter base, where your scenic flight to Earnslaw Burn begins. Flying above the mountains before descending into this remarkable glacial valley is an unforgettable experience in itself.
Surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and the glacier at the head of the valley, you’ll exchange your vows in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine settings. Afterwards, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and capture beautiful photographs together before boarding the helicopter for your return flight to Queenstown.
Your personalised proposal will confirm your chosen package, optional extras and final pricing.
A glimpse of the day
Frequently asked questions
What does the package cost?
The Earnslaw Burn package starts from NZ$12,000, with everything listed included — the helicopter flight, celebrant, licence guidance, photography and witnesses. Your personal proposal confirms the exact figure for your date.
Where is Earnslaw Burn?
Earnslaw Burn is a remote glacier-carved valley near Glenorchy, beyond Queenstown — a natural amphitheatre of hanging waterfalls, reached only by helicopter. It featured in The Hobbit films.
How long is the experience?
About three hours in total, with roughly an hour on-site to marry and take photographs before the flight back. The exact landing spot — the valley floor or a nearby terrace — is chosen on the day for the best conditions.
What if the weather prevents the flight?
We move to a lovely ground-level backup location and your day goes ahead — the helicopter portion is refunded if we can't fly.
Can we add extras?
Of course. Popular add-ons include a bridal bouquet (from NZ$380), hair and makeup (from NZ$450) and a translator if you'd like the ceremony in two languages (NZ$110).
Is a helicopter wedding safe?
Yes. I work only with CAA-certified operators and hugely experienced alpine pilots, and every flight carries full insurance. The pilot always has the final say on the day — if conditions aren’t right to fly safely, we simply move to a beautiful alternative rather than take any risk. Your safety comes first, always.
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With love, from New Zealand
Ready to plan your Earnslaw Burn Heli Wedding?
Tell me your story and what you have in mind. I’ll personally guide you every step of the way — the same as I have for couples from around the world since 1999.
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