Sunrise Balloons - A refreshing way to see Queenstown

About Us

Sunrise Balloons is a New Zealand owned and operated company, Hugh and Maureen McLellan founded the company 10 years ago.

Hugh McLellan, the chief pilot and owner of Sunrise Balloons, has over 1000 hours in hot air balloons and over 2000 hours in fixed wing aircraft, he also has experience in parapentes, hang-gliders, gliders, microlights, floatplanes and helicopters. He currently owns and flies a Cessna 180.

Maureen, Hugh's wife and part owner and Director of Sunrise Balloons prepares our delicious breakfast.

The Crew 

Son Carrick provides transport for Sunrise Balloons and also helps out with the balloon occasionally. Carrick has recently commenced training to fly hot air balloons and has passed most of the required subjects for his commercial licence! He also part owns and operates Queenstown Paraflights. Recently married to Justine.

Daughter-in-law Justine has has now joined Sunrise Balloons and will be your first point of contact by phone and internet, at present streamlining our booking system!

Daughter Rachel helps out at the weekends when Grant is home to look after the kids.

Son Graham takes a break from his web design company Swordfox Design to crew sometimes.

Andre, Dave, George, Ben, Brett, Matt and Brin all help out regularly as crew.