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Choose your journey

by helicopter or floatplane

Based on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Volcanic Air offers the most comprehensive range of scenic flights and air tours in the region. Established in 1992, we carry over 10,000 satisfied customers per year to experience our local volcanoes, geothermal reserves and lakes district from both the air and the ground. Volcanic Air operate a mixed fleet of both helicopters and Rotorua’s only floatplanes. The versatility of these aircraft allows us to visit remote destinations that are hard to reach by other means. Our region is unique, and the diversity of its landscape is quite remarkable. We combine spectacular scenery with informative and interesting commentaries about an area that is considered as the cultural heart of New Zealand. Look no further than Volcanic Air for the best scenic flights Rotorua has to offer.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter Tours

Visit Iconic Volcanoes

Floatplane Tours

Floatplane Tours

Explore active faultlines

Popular tours

something for everyone

Our key scenic flights in Rotorua include Mount Tarawera, the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory. Standing on Mount Tarawera offers a privileged view of spectacular craters and domes formed by the eruption. Further south, we also land at the hidden valley of Orakei Korako, to experience stunning scenery and fascinating geothermal activity. Other key highlights of our Rotorua scenic flights include aerial views of vibrant geothermal reserves like Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu, as well as the area’s lakes district.

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Mount Tarawera & Orakei Korako Dual Landing

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Mount Tarawera Orakei Korako Landing and Walk

Mount Tarawera Floatplane - Volcanic Air

Mt Tarawera/Waimangu Volcanic Valley

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Mount Tarawera Landing and Guided Walk

Geothermal Tours - Volcanic Air

Mount Tarawera ,Wai-o-tapu &  Tarawera falls

Testimonials

What our customers have to say

  • star rating  Exciting! Great pilot, professional and friendly. Knowledgeable about area. Felt safe and most spectacular views!

    avatar thumb susanfX6292QR
    January 24, 2023

    star rating  The sights of Rotorua were spectacular from the helicopter. Our pilot Suk was knowledgeable and shared information about the area and the geographical features. Our flight included views of... read more

    avatar thumb Jodz04
    January 21, 2023

    star rating  Was more than I expected. Quite a thrill at age 75 to stand and look down at the volcano site. Loved flying over it with my son and... read more

    avatar thumb A7096YDmargaretc
    January 14, 2023
  • star rating  A really amazing experience to land on the mountain and walk to the summit. The views from the mountain and during the helicopter ride were great despite less than ideal... read more

    avatar thumb sarahhD7216FB
    November 16, 2022

    star rating  This was one of the most enjoyable tours we have done on a helicopter. We landed on Mt Tarawera on the most beautiful day and you could literally see for... read more

    avatar thumb Xanerin
    October 30, 2022

    star rating  An amazing experience seeing the Rotorua lakes region from the air, out-weighed only by the rare opportunity to set foot on the remarkable Mt Tarawera. Josh is an excellent... read more

    stuntfish1967
    July 25, 2022
Helicopter Charters - Volcanic Air

Exclusive helicopter charters

Floatplane Charters - Volcanic Air

Exclusive floatplane charters

Quality Assured

Our certifications

Our aircraft are maintained to the highest standard and are flown by experienced pilots. All of our pilots also have an intimate knowledge of the local area. Volcanic Air is approved by the New Zealand Civil Aviation authority and independently accessed via a stringent Quality Assurance Program. We are also Qualmark Gold accredited.