Marlborough Sounds: Scenic flight over bays & bush with guide

Summary

Flying low over the green folds of Marlborough’s hidden sounds

You’ll soar above Marlborough Sounds on a short scenic flight with a local guide, catching sight of Picton, Queen Charlotte Sound, Kenepuru Sound, and glimpses toward Tory Channel. With live commentary and ever-changing views below, you’ll experience these wild bays in a way you’ll remember long after landing.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the way the light hit the water — kind of sharp, almost silver, as we banked over Queen Charlotte Sound. The plane was smaller than I expected (I could see the pilot’s hands moving, which was oddly comforting), and there was this faint smell of salt and engine oil mixed together. Our guide, Mike, pointed out Picton below us — just a scatter of roofs and boats from up here, nothing like how it feels on foot.

We’d barely left the ground before everything changed shape. Kenepuru Sound looked like a long green ribbon twisting through hills, and I kept losing track of where land ended and water began. Mike laughed when I tried to pronounce “Tory Channel” with his accent — definitely didn’t nail it. There were moments when all you could hear was the hum of the propeller and someone’s camera clicking behind me, but mostly it felt quiet in that way only flying can be.

The whole scenic flight over Marlborough Sounds lasted about twenty minutes, but honestly, it felt both longer and shorter at once. I caught myself thinking about how people must have crossed these waters before planes or even ferries — just rowing between bays that now looked so close from above. When we landed, my legs were a bit wobbly (not sure if that was nerves or excitement), but I couldn’t stop grinning. It’s strange how a place you’ve seen on maps can suddenly feel personal after seeing it like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic Flight over Marlborough Sounds

• Fly over Picton and Queen Charlotte Sounds
• View Kenepuru and Outer Sounds
• Flight time 20 minutes

Top questions

How long is the Marlborough Sounds scenic flight?

The flight lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Which areas do you see during the tour?

You fly over Picton, Queen Charlotte Sound, Kenepuru Sound, with views toward the Outer Sounds and Tory Channel.

Is there a guide on board?

Yes, the tour includes guided commentary during the flight.

Are infants allowed on this scenic flight?

Yes, infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap; prams or strollers are permitted for small children.

Can service animals join this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this scenic flight.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the departure point.

Do you need to be physically fit for this tour?

No special fitness level is required; it’s suitable for all abilities.

What’s included

Your experience includes a 20-minute guided scenic flight over Marlborough Sounds with live commentary from your local guide; infants may ride in laps or strollers; service animals are welcome; and public transport is available nearby for easy access to your departure point.