Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d get to photograph a love story on the South Island of New Zealand—let alone from a helicopter. I still can’t believe I got the opportunity to explore the remote wilderness of Queenstown with Amy + Tyson for their New Zealand helicopter elopement. . . it’ll forever be one of my favorite trips and memories to look back on.

Amy + Tyson’s New Zealand Helicopter Elopement

A wild adventure on the South Island

When this couple first reached out, I was honored just to be considered. But booking the trip, flying halfway across the world, and getting to witness their vows on a remote mountaintop? That was a core memory.⁣

The South Island of New Zealand is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, anywhere I’ve ever been. It feels like you’ve been transported to another planet with every type of diverse landscape possible—insane mountain peaks, vast national parks, enchanting lakes, and glaciers galore. But something about all of these natural landscapes was just a little different from similar ones I’m lucky enough to experience in the PNW; a little otherworldly, a little dramatic, a little bit like a vibrant painting that you can’t believe you’re seeing in real life.

If you’re considering eloping on New Zealand’s South Island, here are a few adventures you won’t want to miss:

• Hiking glaciers on the West Coast
• Walking through the trails around Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
• Exploring the fiords in Fiordland National Park
• Visiting the beaches in Abel Tasman National Park
• Trekking through the forests of Mount Aspiring National Park

And, of course, taking a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride to witness the striking canvas of landscapes from above. 

Glamping + getting ready at Seffers Dome

For their South Island adventure, Amy and Tyson booked a glamping dome in Queenstown called Seffers Dome—and it turned out to be the perfect place to start + end their day. This gorgeous glamping dome overlooks Moke Lake and offers insane mountain views, perfect for couples who want to stay out in the remote wilderness, but don’t necessarily want a primitive camping experience. Who wouldn’t be craving a little luxury on their special day?

I met up with A + T at the dome, after stopping to snap photos of the scenic mountain route along the way—couldn’t help pulling over to capture the unreal beauty of these mountain ranges to really set the scene for their elopement adventure. Just as the sun rose above the mountains behind them, Amy and Tyson shared sweet moments sitting on the deck of the glamping site, admiring the views and reflecting on the wild journey that brought them there. What a DREAM way to start your elopement day. . . simply being present with your love amidst some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.

The most epic helicopter ride + mountain top ceremony

After sharing a sweet (and incredibly scenic) first look in the grassy fields, it was time for the most epic part of their adventure yet: a private helicopter ride to a mountain top, where they would share their vows. This was easily one of the coolest experiences of my entire life, watching Amy and Tyson put on their headsets and climb into the helicopter, snuggling up as we took off and started flying over the mountains. 

It was UNREAL getting to see these landscapes from a birds-eye view; this was one of those moments that makes you really reflect on life and all the beauty it has to offer. What a freaking special moment for these two to share just before they became husband and wife—this moment of connection, admiration, and awe of the world around them.

We stepped out of the helicopter once we’d arrived at our destination, a summit with panoramic views of the jagged South Island mountain peaks. I couldn’t believe the beauty that surrounded Amy + Tyson as they said their vows: the dramatic clouds, hints of blue skies, the grass blowing in the breeze with little patches of snow every  few steps. . . I had to just pause for a moment and take it all in. How is this real life??

Heliworks Queenstown was such an amazing company to work with for Amy and Tyson’s New Zealand helicopter elopement—highly recommend if you’re looking to book a tour for your own adventure on the South Island!

Moments of connection over homemade charcuterie

As the sun began to drop down, the clouds lighting up with the golden glow of sunset, we hopped back in the helicopter to head back to their Airbnb. At the end of the day, we sat together, eating a homemade charcuterie board they packed with love, and they told me it felt like having a friend there—not just a photographer. And that right there is why I love this job so much.⁣

It’s never just about the photos. It’s about the connection, the trust, the once-in-a-lifetime moments that we get to share.⁣

Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it.

New Zealand Elopement Photography Packages

Dreaming of adding a New Zealand helicopter adventure to your bucket list? I don’t blame you—I’m already ready to go back and do it all over again with another incredible couple like you!

Explore my New Zealand elopement packages here, and inquire here when you’re ready to connect—I can’t wait to get your adventure started.

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Want to take a peek at another one of my favorite places for a destination elopement? This Dreamy Ireland Castle Elopement will have you ready to book your flights ASAP.