Hot Air Balloon flights over Hamilton City, farmlands and the mighty Waikato River.
New Zealand Hot Air Ballooning is an adventure that is one of a kind.
Kiwi Balloon Company is the only commercial hot air balloon company in the North Island.
On a lovely clear day you can see the mountains of Ruapehu, Pirongia, Te Aroha, and Taranaki.
The scenery and stillness will take your breath away!
Waikato Hot Air Balloon Tours
Beautiful things are so simple, like the principle of a hot air balloon. Heated air inside the balloon is lighter than the air outside, so therefore the balloon lifts up, very gently. Your ears will not even pop.
Once up in the air, the passengers in the basket are overwhelmed with the thirst of adventure and unlimited freedom. The hot air balloon flies as fast as the wind blows, therefore it’s comfortably calm in the basket.
At around an hour into the flight, the pilot looks for a suitable landing place. As the balloon is only steered by different wind currents at different altitudes, the landing is the most demanding part of the flight. Back onto firm ground, the balloon will be packed away with everybody’s help.
Tour Includes
- Arrival and departure from Hamilton Lake Verandah Café. Estimated time of arrival: 5am – 7am.
- Transportation to the launch site in a specially-equipped chase vehicle.
- Receive a safety briefing prior to inflation.
- Witness the awe-inspiring inflation of the balloon.
- Embark on board, prepared for your serene ascent.
- Take in the breathtaking sights over the Waikato for approximately 40-60 minutes.
- Indulge in refreshments and snacks at the Verandah Café.
- Overall duration of the entire experience: 3–4 hours.
Safety
Safety is paramount. The modern equipment is under regular Civil Aviation Authority operational inspection. We are not going to compromise your safety.
Pilot Mark Brown has been ballooning since 2004 and has held a New Zealand Commercial Balloon Pilot’s Licence since 2009.
Hot Air Balloon Prices
We have two hot air balloons: Hamilton carries up to 10 passengers, and our smaller balloon carries 2-4 passengers. The capacity of both depend on the weight of the passengers.
Rates as at November 2023
Quoted in NZ$, Subject to Change.
Adult – NZD $400 (13+years)
Child – (7 to 12 years old) NZD $320
Gift Vouchers – A balloon flight gift voucher makes an ideal present for families and friends on any occasion: birthdays, anniversaries or as a special thank you.
