Cathedral Cove helicopter tour from Tauranga: 2 landings

Land at Cathedral Cove and see the Coromandel from the air

A 2.5-hour scenic helicopter tour from Tauranga that flies over the Coromandel Peninsula, Mount Maunganui and Tauranga's coastline, with two exclusive landings at Cathedral Cove for photos and beach exploration. The flight includes landing and facility fees, and requires a minimum of two passengers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Scenic helicopter tour and landing

• Helicopter flight from Tauranga
• View Coromandel Peninsula from above
• See Mount Maunganui and Tauranga aerial views
• Land at Cathedral Cove for photos
• Explore Cathedral Cove beach
• Return flight to Tauranga

The Experience

Cathedral Cove sits at the end of a 2.5-hour helicopter route that starts in Tauranga and climbs over the Coromandel Peninsula. From the air you see Whangamata and Pauanui townships laid out below, then Mount Maunganui rises into view with the Port of Tauranga spreading across the coast. The pilot shares local insights throughout, pointing out the geography that shapes the region.

Two landings break up the flight. The first gives you time to explore Cathedral Cove itself—the remote beach with its distinctive rock formations that make it worth the detour. You get exclusive access to this spot and the chance to photograph it without the crowds you'd find arriving by road. The second landing offers another vantage point for photos and a moment to step out and feel the landscape up close.

The helicopter departs from Tauranga, so if you're staying in the city or arriving at the airport without a rental car, you skip the drive to a distant airfield. Landing and facility fees are included in the price, as is the fuel surcharge. Minimum group size is two passengers.

What’s included

• Scenic helicopter flight over the Coromandel Peninsula, Mount Maunganui and Tauranga's coastline.
• two exclusive landings at Cathedral Cove with time to explore and photograph.
• landing and facility fees.
• fuel surcharge.
• live guide commentary in English throughout the flight.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Adventure Helicopters

Is this one for you?The tour departs from Tauranga itself, which means you don't need a car or a long drive to a distant airfield—useful if you're staying in the city or arriving without a rental. The two landings at Cathedral Cove give you ground time to explore the beach and photograph it without the effort of driving there overland.

Top questions

What exactly happens during the two landings at Cathedral Cove?

Cathedral Cove is where the helicopter lands twice during the tour, giving you time to explore the remote beach and take photos of the distinctive rock formations. You step out onto the beach itself rather than viewing it only from the air.

Can I see Mount Maunganui from this helicopter tour?

Yes. Mount Maunganui and the Port of Tauranga come into view during the flight, with the pilot pointing out the landmarks and their local significance as you pass over them.

How long is the entire helicopter tour?

The tour lasts 2.5 hours total, which includes the flight time and the two landings at Cathedral Cove.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to the helicopter departure point?

The helicopter departs from Tauranga itself, so you don't need to travel to a distant airfield. Public transportation options are available nearby if you're not driving.

What's included in the price of this tour?

Landing and facility fees and the fuel surcharge are included. The pilot is with you throughout the flight to share local knowledge.

Is there a minimum number of people required to book this tour?

Yes, a minimum of two passengers is required for the tour to operate.