There’s something so thrilling about watching the City of Sails – its skyline, its volcanic cones, and its shimmering harbour – shrink beneath the blades of a helicopter.
It’s a rush of magic matched only by the sight of Waiheke’s rolling green hills and strings of vines rising into view after a spectacular flight across the Hauraki Gulf – every twist and turn offering a new perspective, moments that feels both exhilarating and impossibly serene all at once.
For nearly 35 years, Heletranz has been offering such perspectives, turning travel into an experience as memorable as the destination itself. Founded in 1991 by Tony and Julie Monk and later developed by John and Sofia Ambler, the company has become synonymous with stylish escapes. In 2019, Heletranz joined the Inflite Group, expanding its reach “while keeping that boutique, experience-led ethos”.
“Heletranz grew around the idea that a helicopter ride could be more than a means of transport – it could be an exclusive signature occasion,” says Inflite’s group marketing manager, Mauritz Badenhorst. “The focus remains on luxury, tailored experiences in Auckland, Waiheke and further afield, with curated itineraries that turn a short hop into a full day out.”
Though firmly in the luxury sphere, Mauritz emphasises that the offerings aren’t just about indulgence, but about creating unique, cinematic moments to “celebrate a special occasion in an extraordinary way”. That might mean soaring above the Sky Tower and Rangitoto’s crater or landing among the vines for tastings where guests can “step straight from their scenic seat to a sparkling glass”.
What is some of your favourite feedback?
Our pilots are not only highly experienced but bring a deep passion for the land and environment they fly over. Guests consistently call out the smooth flights and concierge feel – with many noting it was a perfect gift or bucket-list flight.
What are some of the most memorable customer experiences?
Some frequent flyers are accustomed to luxury travel – for those guests the seamless convenience, friendly and reliable customer service, and quality of our fleet are key factors. For other guests the experience becomes a one-in-a-lifetime memory. One of our signature Heletranz moments would be a proposal flight – a private orbit past the Sky Tower or a vineyard touchdown with everything pre-set. It’s the perfect blend of spectacle and ease: the team choreographs the timing, the landing, the table – you just pop the question!
What do you think makes Waiheke such a special destination?
With myriad accommodation and dining options, Waiheke has become the playground on Auckland’s doorstep. It’s the island-of-wine mix: warm maritime microclimate, beaches, and a dense constellation of cellar doors. Helicopter access turns it into a friction-free long lunch or a remote east-end escape.
How do you put nervous flyers at ease?
Safety is at the forefront of everything we do. Our experienced pilots will prioritise guest safety at all times, keeping them informed and at ease to ensure at have the most enjoyable experience.
How do you manage your environmental footprint?
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of our business. The entire Inflite Group holds a Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Certification, is Net Carbon Zero Certified by Toitu, and continuously recognised for our environmental responsibility and commitment to best-practice operations.
Looking ahead, what are the big ambitions for Heletranz?
We’re dedicated to evolving with an ever-changing tourism industry. Our ambition is to continue connecting people with the experiences they’ll cherish forever. Beyond tourism, we remain dedicated to the aviation industry itself. We’re investing in expansion of our Albany Heliport facilities to enable greater capacity for our specialist aviation management services and actively developing talent to help shape the future of the sector. Our goal is to make aviation work better – for our aircraft owners, guests, our team, and the environment alike. We’re also deeply committed to environmental sustainability – having held our CarbonZero status for over six years. Products like Ecoguided Heli-hiking on pest-free Hauraki Gulf Islands are the perfect way for travellers to experience New Zealand’s truly unique environment.
The Heletranz fleet includes the executive Agusta 109s Grand, a Bell 427, a Eurocopter EC130, Single and Twin-Engine Eurocopter Squirrels, and a Robinson R44. For more information, visit heletranz.co.nz.
HELETRANZ HIGHLIGHTS!
Waiheke heli-dining.
Fly to a Waiheke vineyard for a three-course long lunch to arrive in style, return by Heli or ferry – an easy, glamorous crowd-pleaser.
Auckland City & Volcanoes Scenic Flight.
Auckland’s most popular scenic flight, it’s around 20 minutes of sky-high “micro-luxury” incorporating the harbour, the skyline, and the craters.
Heli Hours.
Frequent flyers can pre-purchase time to use through the year – “an uncomplicated way to make the extraordinary a habit”.
Meet-and-Greet.
This airport service can fly you to the CBD, a vineyard, lodge, golf course or a private property.
Day trips & adventure.
Go fishing, play golf, or do a coast-to-coast adventure. Curated combo packages can include taking in the likes of Hobbiton, Waitomo, cliff landings at the Bay of Islands, the Coromandel, and more! Auckland is Heletranz’s speciality but they fly regularly throughout North Island, with South Island flights also available.
