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.
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.
We had the most fantastic seaplane flight with Volcanic air! Every aspect of our day was flawless. The pilot was excellent in making sure everyone enjoyed their time in a... read more safe and fun manner. The views from the plane were like nothing else I had seen before and certainly made me look at Aotearoa New Zealand in a new way. He even went the extra mile carrying us to the beach so we didn’t have to get our socks and shoes wet or take them off to walk through water! Such an incredible way to appreciate New Zealand.
The team at Volcanic Air were fantastic. The scenery and commentary made the trip in the sea plane. Best way to see the fantastic landscapes all around Rotorua and Taupo.... read more Steve, our pilot, made the trip very enjoyable. A must do when in Rotorua.
Such a treat to have had the opportunity to view our beautiful Rotorua & surrounds from above. Our pilot was fantastic and very knowledgeable. Besides the beautiful... read more views and seeing all our amazing lakes, it was definitely a highlight & a laugh to watch our pilot carry two lady passengers from the float plane to the shore for their next adventure. Now that was service!
Highly recommend Volcanic Air.
Fantastic flight with a great pilot. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff who looked after us well.
Float plane to Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools. This is a must. Even for a seasoned visitor to Rotorua and the lake, this was fabulous! Friendly, attentive staff... read more made us feel welcome and safe. Landing on the lake, soaking in the hot pools, hot chips and bubbles to top it off and then home again. You have to do this at least once!!
This was an incredible experience. I have never been on a small plane before, let alone a floatplane, so I was very nervous/excited. The takeoff and landing was a breeze... read more (I wish all flights went so smoothly).
The views are incredible. The captain was lovely. It is one of those memories I'll never forget.
Oh yeah, and I got to ride SHOTGUN up in the cockpit!
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.