FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General FAQ’s
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.
What are your ages for children?
Child age range: 5-15 years. Infant age range: 0-4 years.
Is there a minimum age to fly?
No. We welcome all ages on our scenic flights – toddlers and babies are usually very comfortable flying (most even nap during the flight!). We provide extra lap belts for infants and child-sized ear muffs.
Are your flights subject to minimum passenger numbers?
Yes. Whakatāne departures require a minimum of 2 passengers. Rotorua and Tauranga departures require a minimum of 4 passengers.
I am a solo traveller, but I see that you have a minimum-number policy. Can I still make a booking?
Of course! We can add solo travellers to a waitlist for their preferred flight until minimum numbers are confirmed, or we may combine flights to reach the required numbers.
What happens if our flight is cancelled or postponed due to the weather?
If the weather conditions are unsuitable on the day of your trip, White Island Flights will cancel the flight at the pilot’s discretion – there is no charge.
While cancellations can be disappointing, if the weather is poor or even marginal, you wouldn’t have a great experience anyway (we want you to actually see the scenery!). We recommend booking your flight early in your stay so we have flexibility to reschedule if needed.
Do you have a maximum passenger weight?
Passengers who weigh more than 130kgs will need to contact us. All passengers and their belongings are weighed at check-in to ensure aircraft weight and balance. Larger passengers may be required to use an extension seatbelt.
Can I choose my own seat?
Seating is allocated by the pilot based on aircraft weight and balance requirements. We do our best to keep couples, families, and groups seated together where possible.
Is it cold in the aircraft?
No, we don’t fly at high altitudes, and all our aircraft have heaters operated by the pilot when needed.
What should I wear/bring?
Normal clothing is fine. During the summer months, it can get quite warm, so we recommend bringing light clothing, a water bottle, and sunglasses.
What mobility requirements are needed to fly?
All passengers need to have enough mobility to safely get in and out of the aircraft. You must be able to step up into the aircraft without assistance, or you’ll need to be travelling with someone who can physically assist you. If you have any concerns about mobility, please contact us before booking – we’re happy to help and can advise on what’s involved.
Can you take disabled passengers?
We can accommodate disabled passengers, but we do require that anyone needing assistance travels with a companion who can help them into and out of the aircraft. Please also check our FAQ on Mobility Requirements to make sure your travel needs are supported.
How mobile do I need to be to fly?
Passengers need enough mobility to step into and out of the aircraft unaided or be accompanied by someone who can provide assistance. If you have any concerns about mobility, please contact us before booking – we’re happy to discuss options.
Can you cater for group bookings?
Yes, we can accommodate larger groups. Our two aircraft combined can seat a maximum of 8 passengers. Please inquire about group rates.
I have a keen interest in photography – is it possible to open the windows during the flight?
Yes! Both our aircraft have fully open windows for unobstructed views. Professional photographers or filmmakers with specific needs are encouraged to book a charter flight – contact us directly for charter rates.
Do you fly from other bases?
Yes, we offer scenic flights from Tauranga and Rotorua (minimum of 4 passengers required). lease inquire about availability and rates.
Do you have set times you fly?
No – we fly on demand! Summer (Oct-April): 8:00am-5:00pm. Winter (May-Sept): 9:00am-3:00pm.
Will I have to share the plane with other passengers?
Sometimes! Depending on the time of year and your booking, you might end up with a private scenic flight – especially for special occasions. We’ll always do our best to accommodate you.
Contacting Us
What if I call and no one answers?
We might be in the air!
If your call goes unanswered, please contact us via Messenger (Facebook) or WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you as soon as we’re safely 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.
Are there any rental car companies that you can recommend?
Are there any shuttle companies that you can recommend?
What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
We will contact you as early as possible to advise you of our decision.
Gift a Flight
Looking for a special way to celebrate someone special? Why not gift an experience!
A birthday, an anniversary, or simply a token of appreciation, our flights are a gift they’ll never forget.
Private Charter Flights
At White Island Flights, our Private Charter service gives you the freedom and flexibility to tailor a flight path to suit you. Whether you have a specific itinerary in mind or want a private journey for your group, we've got you covered.
Call us now to book your private charter.
Coming from a Cruise Ship?
White Island Flights are based at Whakatane Airport which is approximately 50min drive from Mt Maunganui port. You have the option to self-drive to Whakatane airport or take a private shuttle.
For more information, read our FAQ's for Cruise Passengers.