Ultimate Discovery: 3 Glaciers & Snow Landing 45min

Aerial Glimpse of New Zealand’s Glaciers and Peaks: A Detailed Look at the Ultimate Discovery Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring over some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes—Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman Glaciers—with breathtaking views that are impossible to fully appreciate from the ground. For just under two hours, including boarding and disembarking, you’ll be whisked into the skies on a 45-minute helicopter flight that takes you deep into the Southern Alps. This tour, priced at $344.71 per person, offers not just flying but the chance to land on snow—a rare and memorable experience.

Two things we especially love about this experience are the personalized attention that comes with small-group flights, often limited to just 12 travelers, and the close-up views of the glaciers and mountain peaks. Landing on snow allows you to step onto a surface normally reserved for mountaineers, offering perfect photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. The only thing to keep in mind? Weather can sometimes cut your flight short or limit glacier landings. That said, most travelers find the experience well worth it, especially with the professionalism and safety focus of the pilots.

This tour is best suited for those who have a sense of adventure, enjoy scenic vistas, and don’t mind the possibility of weather-related alterations. If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate way to see New Zealand’s icy giants and towering peaks, this helicopter trip might just be your highlight.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Fly deep into the Southern Alps and see Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and three major glaciers.
• Close Mountain Encounters: Snow landings provide up-close access to glaciers, perfect for photos.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and better views.
• Weather Dependence: The experience can be affected by weather but is handled professionally with options for rescheduling and refunds.
• Value for Price: At around $345, you get a scenic flight, glacier landing, and the chance to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
• High Satisfaction: With a near-perfect 5-star rating based on over 100 reviews, most travelers find this tour memorable.

An In-Depth Look at the Glaciers and Mountain Views

When considering a helicopter tour of this kind, the itinerary is fundamental in understanding what makes it special—and what could be a challenge. The main feature here is the 45-minute scenic flight over the Southern Alps, giving you expansive views of Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and the glaciers—Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman. These glaciers are among New Zealand’s largest and most awe-inspiring, and seeing them from the air reveals their scale and beauty in a way impossible from the ground.

The Glaciers

The Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier in New Zealand, stretching over 27 kilometers, and is a highlight of this tour. From the cockpit, you’ll see the bright white ice carved by centuries of snow, contrasted sharply against the rugged mountain terrain. The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are famous for their accessibility and dramatic ice formations, and from the air, their scale and movement become clear.

Mount Cook and Mount Tasman

Flying past Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s highest peak at 3,724 meters, is a special treat. The pilots are often praised for their ability to navigate clouds and changing weather, as noted by many reviews. Flying near these giants, you’ll get a sense of the raw power of nature, with jagged peaks and deep valleys. One reviewer mentioned that their pilot, Gus Gordon, “made the flight and trip even better with his flying skills and knowledge of the terrain,” which speaks to the value of experienced pilots.

Snow Landing

The snow landing is a rare chance to step onto a glacier surface, typically lasting about 10–15 minutes. You’ll be able to walk on the snow, take pictures, and enjoy the silence of this icy landscape. Even when weather conditions prevent glacier landings, the pilot’s ingenuity in finding alternative routes ensures you still experience excellent views, as highlighted by reviews praising pilots for their professionalism and adaptability.

The Experience from Boarding to Landing

The tour begins at the base in Franz Josef, with check-in at 10 Main Road. The small group size ensures a more intimate journey, and most travelers commend the efficiency of the check-in process and the clear safety briefing. The helicopter used, a B2 Squirrel, is designed for passenger comfort with large windows, so you’ll get good views from any seat.

Sitting in the helicopter, you’ll enjoy a smooth, quiet ride—pilots are experienced, and safety is their top priority. The 45-minute flight allows ample time to see the glaciers and mountains from different angles, often with the pilot pointing out landmarks and sharing interesting facts, making the experience both scenic and educational.

Weather and Flight Cancellations

Weather is always a factor in this region, and some reviews mention shorter flights or missed glacier landings due to clouds or ice conditions. The company handles cancellations professionally, offering refunds or options to reschedule. Several travelers noted that despite weather delays, the staff kept them well-informed, and pilots found alternative routes to maximize the experience.

The Snow Landing

Landing on snow is a highlight, allowing you to step onto a glacier surface that’s usually only visible to mountaineers. The landing site is carefully chosen for safety and photo opportunities. According to reviews, this part of the tour provides a sense of adventure and spectacular vistas, with some guests noting that being on snow “made the trip unforgettable.”

The Value of the Tour

While the cost might seem high, consider what’s included: a 45-minute helicopter flight, snow landing, experienced pilot, and all fees. The personalized, small-group setting ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the views are unparalleled. Many reviews emphasize that, despite weather challenges, the professionalism and safety standards of the crew make this a worthwhile investment.

Compared to other scenic attractions, this tour combines adventure, scenery, and a touch of the extraordinary—landing on snow in the middle of the Southern Alps is not something you do every day. Travelers who value authentic experiences and Instagram-worthy photos often mention how this tour exceeded expectations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an adventure seeker wanting a close-up glacier experience, this tour is ideal. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy aerial views and can handle the possibility of weather-related changes. It appeals to travelers who appreciate professional guides, small groups, and the chance to land on snow—a rare treat.

However, if you are limited by mobility (noting the helicopter’s high steps) or weather-sensitive, it’s worth considering flexible dates or alternative tours. Also, the experience is best for those comfortable with helicopter travel and are prepared for potential weather delays.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For most travelers, this helicopter tour offers stunning vistas, personalized service, and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to stand on a glacier. The 360-degree views of mountains and glaciers, coupled with the thrill of snow landing, make it a standout adventure in New Zealand’s South Island. While weather can sometimes limit the experience, the professionalism and flexibility of the operators mean you’ll likely come away with incredible memories either way.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking to see New Zealand’s iconic glaciers from the air. If you’re after a breathtaking, well-organized experience with high safety standards, this helicopter expedition will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing ample time for viewing and photography.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the 45-minute scenic helicopter flight, snow landing, professional pilot, and all fees, GST, and taxes.

Can I land on the glaciers?
Yes, the tour includes a snow landing that allows you to step onto the glacier surface, lasting about 10–15 minutes.

What if the weather is poor?
Weather can impact the flight, possibly shortening it or preventing glacier landings. The company offers full refunds or options to reschedule if affected by weather.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Check-in is at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef, where the helicopter departs and returns.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Optional upgrades like Comfort Seats or front seats can incur extra charges, especially for passengers over 120kg (265 lbs).

Is this suitable for people with limited mobility?
There are high ladder-style steps into the helicopter, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

How many people are in each helicopter?
The maximum is 12 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for better views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, with full refunds.

Is the experience appropriate for children?
While not explicitly stated, most reviews suggest it’s suitable for travelers of most ages, provided they are comfortable with helicopter travel and weather conditions.

In short, this helicopter tour offers a memorable and authentic way to see some of New Zealand’s most stunning natural features. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic beauty and adventure, and who are prepared for the weather’s whims. With professional guides, a small group atmosphere, and the thrill of snow landings, it’s an experience most will cherish for years to come.