Franz Josef Town is renowned for its stunning glacier landscape and proximity to some of New Zealand’s highest peaks. It’s a top spot for helicopter flights and tours because of its accessible yet dramatic scenery. Whether you’re after a quick bird’s-eye view or a full day of glacier hiking, helicopter tours here offer a level of excitement and perspective that’s hard to beat. We particularly love the Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer for its mix of aerial views and up-close glacier exploration—it’s a bucket list experience. For travelers who want a quick but memorable peek at the ice, the 20-minute scenic flights stand out for their affordability and dramatic vistas.
If you’re wondering which tour to pick, this guide will help clarify the options. From short heli-flights to extensive glacier adventures and even a luxury picnic among peaks, there’s a helicopter experience suited to every interest and budget. Now, let’s explore these options in detail.
1. Franz Josef Glacier: Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing
At number 1, this 25-minute helicopter flight offers a fantastic overview of the Franz Josef Glacier. The flight includes a 10-minute snow or alpine landing, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the panoramic views. You’ll see ice pinnacles and crevasses up close, with the Southern Alps providing the dramatic backdrop. Guests consistently rate this tour 4.8 out of 5 based on over 500 reviews, reflecting its popularity and quality.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of aerial spectacle and a short alpine walk, giving you a tangible connection to the glacier’s icy grandeur. The pilots are experienced and enthusiastic, sharing insights about the glacier’s formation and the region’s geology. It’s ideal if you want a short, high-impact experience that balances value and unforgettable scenery. The price, starting at $195, offers excellent value considering the views and the unique landing experience. This is a good choice for travelers short on time but eager for a memorable helicopter adventure.
Bottom Line: A perfect quick tour for those wanting stunning glacier views with a chance to step onto the ice-alpine landscape.
2. Franz Josef: 35min Helicopter Trip over Two Glaciers
Next up is this 35-minute scenic flight that takes you over both the Franz Josef and either the Fox or Tasman Glaciers. It includes a 10-minute snow landing atop the Southern Alps, providing ample photo opportunities. Rated 4.9 out of 5 by 328 reviewers, this tour is praised for its thorough coverage and the chance to see some of New Zealand’s highest mountains from the air.
This tour is unique because it covers two major glaciers, giving a broader perspective on the region’s icy giants. Mount Cook’s distant peaks add a stunning touch, and the snow landing provides a rare chance to stand on a glacier’s edge, marveling at the icy landscape below. Costing $250 per person, it offers good value for a comprehensive experience that balances scenic flying and landings. Many travelers mention that the views of the Southern Alps and high peaks make this a highlight of their trip.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a more extensive aerial tour covering multiple glaciers with a memorable snow landing.
3. Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer
For those seeking a full-on glacier adventure, this 4 to 8-hour experience combines a scenic helicopter flight with a guided glacier hike. Starting with a helicopter ride over the glacier, you’ll then explore ice formations, crevasses, and ice tunnels close-up. This tour is rated 4.8 out of 5 by 247 reviews, which speaks to its popularity and quality.
What sets this tour apart is the up-close exploration of the glacier itself. Your guide shares insights into glaciology and Maori legends, enriching the experience. The tour offers exclusive access to parts of Franz Josef Glacier—something few others can claim. The price, at $466 per person, reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience and the expert guidance. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to walk on real ice and photograph stunning formations that are inaccessible from the ground.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a deep immersion into the glacier’s icy world with expert guidance.
4. Franz Josef Town: 3-Glacier Helicopter Ride with Landing
A step up in scope, this 45-minute tour takes you over the Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman Glaciers. It includes a 15-minute snow landing set among the Southern Alps. With a 4.8-star rating from 118 reviews, this tour is praised for its sweeping vistas and multiple glacier views.
This experience is perfect if you want to see all three major glaciers in one flight, along with mount Cook and other high peaks. The flight covers a broad area, giving you a sense of the landscape’s scale and diversity. The snow landing allows for excellent photo opportunities. Though $331 per person, it’s well worth it considering the breadth of scenery and the chance to capture multiple glaciers from the air. Many reviewers mention that the views of ice pinnacles and crevasses are especially impressive.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a full panoramic view of the region’s glaciers and mountains.
5. Franz Josef: Glacier Helicopter Ride with Snow Landing
This 20-minute tour offers a quick yet impactful flight over Franz Josef Glacier with a snow landing. Rated 4.9 out of 5, it’s a favorite for those short on time but wanting spectacular glacier views.
The tour provides an aerial perspective of ice pinnacles and crevasses, combined with a unique snow landing—an experience that’s often described as magical. From this high point, you can appreciate the scale and beauty of the glacier, with plenty of photo opportunities. At $193, it’s an affordable way to tick off a glacier helicopter experience without a long time commitment. Reviewers comment on how stunning the views are, especially from the snow landing.
Bottom Line: An excellent short option for travelers who want a snapshot of Franz Josef’s icy landscape with a memorable snow landing.
6. Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing
At number 6, this 20-minute scenic flight offers a panoramic view of the glacier, including ice falls and crevasses, topped with a snow landing. Rated 4.8 out of 5, it provides a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price.
This tour is notable for its flexibility—several departure times mean you can choose a slot that fits your schedule. The snow landing is perfect for photos and appreciating the icy landscape up close. The flight highlights ice pinnacles, crevasses, and the glacier’s scale from the air, making it a good value at $205 per person. Reviewers praise the friendly pilots and the incredible views.
Bottom Line: A convenient, scenic flight ideal for those seeking flexibility and great views.
7. Franz Josef: The Grand Tour by Helicopter with Snow Landing
If you’re after the ultimate helicopter experience, this 40-minute flight offers three glaciers: Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman. It includes a scenic snow landing and mountain vistas of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Rated 5 out of 5 from 11 reviews, it’s perhaps the most comprehensive tour on our list.
The tour’s length and scope make it a luxury experience. The views of blue icefalls and high peaks are breathtaking, and the snow landing provides great photo ops. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-encompassing experience. The $337 price reflects its premium nature, offering a fuller perspective on the region’s icy giants.
Bottom Line: The best choice for those wanting a luxury, all-in-one glacier tour with plenty of time in the air.
8. Franz Josef: 4-Glacier Helicopter Ride with 2 Landings
This 1-hour tour takes you over the Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman, and Shackleton Glaciers, with two snow landings. It’s rated 5 out of 5 by 10 reviews, and is a dream for glacier enthusiasts.
This experience offers the most extensive glacier coverage, including the ice lake near Shackleton Glacier. The two landings mean you get plenty of photo opportunities and a real feel for the icy terrain. The pilot provides commentary during the entire flight, making it educational as well as thrilling. At $442, it’s an investment but offers unmatched scope.
Bottom Line: For serious glacier lovers ready to spend a bit more for the full picture.
9. Franz Josef: Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks
Finally, for a luxury and private experience, this 90-minute helicopter flight includes a private picnic on a remote glacier. Up to 6 people can share this exclusive journey for $1,757. Rated not specified, it’s clearly aimed at travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime, intimate experience.
This tour is perfect if you want privacy, exclusivity, and incredible photo and video moments. The quiet serenity of flying over the peaks followed by a picnic among the mountains makes it a memorable adventure. It’s ideal for special occasions or travelers who want to splurge on a luxury experience.
Bottom Line: The ultimate adventure for those seeking privacy and exclusivity in the mountains.
$1,757 per group up to 6
How to Choose the Best Helicopter Tour in Franz Josef
When selecting the right helicopter tour, consider your budget, the time available, and your interest level. If you’re pressed for time but want a stunning glacier view, the 20-minute flights with snow landings are ideal. For a more comprehensive experience, the full glacier hikes and the Grand Tour deliver more time in the air and on the ice.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at the 20-minute or 25-minute options, which offer outstanding scenery at reasonable prices. If you’re after luxury and complete coverage, the Picnic among Peaks or the 4-glacier ride are best. Book early, especially in peak summer months, as these tours fill up quickly.
Consider your fitness level—some tours include glacier hikes or walking on ice—so plan accordingly. Lastly, think about the best time to go, typically summer (December-February), to enjoy the snow and ice in perfect conditions.
Final Thoughts
Franz Josef offers a wide range of helicopter experiences that can match any traveler’s style—from quick scenic flights to full glacier explorations and luxury picnics. For those who want a brief taste of the ice, the 25-minute helicopter with alpine landing is perfect. If you’re after a serious glacier adventure, the 2.5-hour hike with helicopter transfer is unmatched.
For travelers with limited time, the 20-minute scenic flights provide stunning views without breaking the bank. But if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to splurge on an unforgettable memory, the Picnic among Peaks will deliver a truly unique experience. Remember, booking early is always wise—these tours are popular and often fill up fast.
No matter which experience you choose, a helicopter tour in Franz Josef guarantees a spectacular view of New Zealand’s icy giants—an adventure you’ll remember for years to come.