Frequently Asked Questions

What are your child and infant prices?

Child pricing is 50% of the adult retail rate. A child is 5-15 years. Infants (0-4 years) fly free of charge.

Is there a minimum age to fly?

No. All ages are welcome. Babies and toddlers usually travel well, and we provide lap belts and child ear muffs.

Do you have minimum passenger numbers?

Yes.

  • Whakatāne flights need at least 2 passengers.

  • Rotorua and Tauranga flights need at least 4 passengers.

I’m travelling alone – can I still book?

Yes. Solo travellers can be waitlisted until minimum numbers are met, or we may combine flights.

What happens if my flight is cancelled due to weather?

Safety comes first. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the pilot may cancel or postpone the flight at no charge. We recommend booking early in your stay in case we need to reschedule.

Do you have a passenger weight limit?

Passengers over 130kg need to let us know when booking. Everyone (and their bags) is weighed at check-in for aircraft balance. Extension seatbelts are available if needed.

Can I choose my seat?

The pilot allocates seating for safety and balance. We do our best to keep couples, families, and groups together.

Is it cold in the aircraft?

No. We fly low and the aircraft have heaters if needed.

What should I wear/bring?

Dress for the season. In summer, light clothing, water, and sunglasses are best.

Do I need to be mobile to fly?

Yes. Passengers must be able to step in and out of the aircraft, or travel with someone who can help. Please contact us if you’re unsure—we’re happy to advise.

Do you take disabled passengers?

Yes, provided they travel with a companion who can assist with boarding. See our mobility requirements above.

Can you take groups?

Yes. With both aircraft, we can seat up to 8 passengers. Ask us about group rates.

Can I open the windows for photos?

Yes! Both aircraft have windows that open fully for clear views. Photographers or filmmakers may wish to book a private charter.

Do you fly from other locations?

Yes. We also fly from Tauranga and Rotorua (minimum 4 passengers). Contact us for details.

Do you have set flight times?

No – we fly on demand.

  • Summer (Oct–Apr): 8am–5pm

  • Winter (May–Sept): 9am–3pm

Will I share the plane with others?

Sometimes. Depending on bookings, you may get a private flight (great for special occasions).

What if I call and no one answers?

We may be flying. If we miss your call, please message us on Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp—we’ll reply as soon as we’re back on the ground.

Cruise Ship FAQ’s

We have arrived at Mt Maunganui and would like to do a scenic flight with White Island Flights. Where and how can we do this?

White Island Flights are based at Whakatane Airport in the Eastern Bay of Plenty Whakatane Airport is approximately a 50min drive from Mt Maunganui port.

You have the option to self-drive to Whakatane airport or take a private shuttle. We do not offer pick-up or drop-off services. There is no public transport available

We can offer flights from Tauranga Airport; however, we do require a minimum of 4 passengers, and your own transport will need to be provided to and from the ship. Please enquire directly about these rates.

If we decide to self-drive, do we have enough time to do this, and is there anything else we can do in the Whakatane area?

Yes, you will have enough time, most passengers decide to do a flight late morning, with time for lunch and a tour of the town afterwards. We are also very flexible with time, so if you arrive earlier than you intended, we can normally accommodate you.

The drive from Mt Maunganui is a mostly straight road that follows the Bay of Plenty coastline, offering stunning views with opportunities to stop at the uncrowded beaches along the way. Be aware that there is an electronic toll road along this route, which is $2.30NZ each way. Usually, your rental car company will advise you on how to pay.

Whakatane has lots to offer and is a great place to visit after viewing it from the air. It is also home to Ohope Beach, New Zealand’s most popular beach, with fewer crowds than Mt Maunganui.

View the website below to see what else the Whakatane district has to offer.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day?

We will contact you as early as possible to advise you of our decision.