Why fly with us?
Escape to a world of peace and tranquility. Hot Air Ballooning is a magical experience and a flight with Ballooning Canterbury offers panoramic views across the fertile Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps.
There is nothing quite so romantic and exciting as floating effortlessly over an ever changing landscape.
What we offer
- An early start: Ballooning is best at sunrise, when the weather is calmest and to make the most of the beautiful morning light.
- Allow approximately 3-4 hours for this remarkable experience; you will be contacted the evening prior to your flight, giving you details of your meeting time and place.
- The actual flying time is approximately one hour.
- It is a hands-on experience. Passengers are actively encouraged to help the pilot and crew with the pre-flight inflation and packing up at the conclusion of the flight.
- Spectacular views and fantastic photo opportunities.
- A glass of chilled bubbly or fruit juice, fresh muffins and seasonal fruit after landing.
Meet Our Team
Ballooning Canterbury is a family owned and operated business which has been operating since October 2012.
Michael Oakley | Chief Executive/Chief Pilot
Michael is passionate about flying. He is one of New Zealand’s top balloonists and has been flying balloons since 1997. Michael has won national ballooning events throughout New Zealand and has represented New Zealand at the World Hot Air Balloon Championships in Mildrua, Australia.
Michael married Kate in 1989 and they have 2 children Nicholas and Hannah.
Nicholas Oakley | Pilot
Nicholas has been flying in balloons since he was 4 years old. He had his first solo flight at 12 and won his first Balloon Fiesta at 14. At 22 he gained his Commercial Hot Air Balloon License and started flying for the family business.
Nicholas married Sarah in 2021 and they have 2 daughters Lucy and Ella.
Kate Oakley | Administration/Bookings
Kate has a background in tourism and aviation having worked for Newmans Airways, Ansett New Zealand and Qantas New Zealand.
Sarah Oakley | Social Media
Sarah is a Property Consultant advising land owners on how best to maximise their assets. In her spare time, she is also mother to Ella and Lucy, and manages all of Ballooning Canterbury’s social media platforms.
Start the Adventure Today
Escape to a world of peace and tranquility. Hot Air Ballooning is a magical experience and a flight with Ballooning Canterbury offers panoramic views across the fertile Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps.
Book Now
