What if the heli hike is canceled due to weather conditions?

If drastic weather changes lead to the cancelation of your tickets, you can either get a refund or reschedule your heli hike for another day. If your holiday itinerary includes multiple experiences, keep the Franz Josef heli hike towards the beginning of your itinerary to accommodate for a reschedule.

Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, which is better?

Franz Josef has a much steeper descent compared to the Fox Glacier, this means that ice formations are more drastic, but the terrain is also riskier. If you’re a beginner to mountain hikes, we suggest you pick the calmer Fox Glacier instead. If you’re an experienced mountaineer and want to see drastic ice formations, then Franz Josef in the summer is your best option.

Is a helicopter tour worth it compared to a guided hike?

Although a guided hike of Franz Josef takes you quite close to the glacier, you will not have the opportunity to hike atop the glacier. With a heli hike, not only can you see the surrounding mountains and valleys, but you also get to land on the ice and get exclusive views of the various ice formations atop the glacier. It’s also a better option for if you want to see blue ice.

Will I see blue ice on my Franz Josef heli hike?

While there’s no guarantee that you will be able to see specific ice formations, the helicopter takes you high up the glacier where blue ice is quite prominent.

What is included in a Franz Josef heli hike?

Your Franz Josef heli hike will include a short trip to the top of the glacier, after which you will put on your crampons provided by your guide and take a 2-hour hike on the glacier. Your guide will carve the path for you and show you various ice formations on the glacier. Once the hike is complete, you will return to the helipad where the helicopter dropped you off at first to go back down to the glacier base.

What other activities can I book at Franz Josef?

Apart from Franz Josef heli hikes and heli tours, there are also other experiences like guided hiking tours, boating on Lake Mapourika and Okarito Lagoon. Most hiking trails are free for you to access. However, be sure to check with the Department of Conservation on whether these trails are open and if there are any ice or landslide warnings.

How many people can go on a single heli hike?

One expert glacier guide is assigned to up to 10 tourists at Franz Josef. However, the helicopter can only fit up to 6 people at a time, including the pilot and the guide.

Are there any additional fees I need to be aware of?

The price of your Franz Josef heli hike includes all the items essential to your experience, including waterproof jacket and pants, snow boots, crampons and a fanny pack. However, you will need to bring your own sunglasses. If you don’t have one, you can purchase sunglasses from a kiosk at the heli hike base.

Can I reschedule the heli hike on the day of the tour?

You can cancel or reschedule your Franz Josef heli hike up to 24 hours before the beginning of your experience. If you need to make any reschedules within this period, you may have to forfeit your refund. However, if there is a cancelation due to unforeseen weather changes, then you will be entitled to a full refund or reschedule your heli hike for free.

Can I bring a backpack for my heli hike?

We suggest that you not carry a backpack as the helicopter has limited space for seating. The facility will give you a small fanny pack to keep your essentials like phone, snacks, water bottle, etc.

What is the temperature on the Franz Josef glacier?

The Franz Josef Glacier is usually about 8 to 10°C cooler than the town below. The breeze usually adds to this chill. As conditions can change quite drastically, we suggest that you have at least 2 warm layers beneath the jacket provided by the facility.

How many layers should I wear?

Weather in Alpine regions can change drastically, so it’s best to be prepared with extra layers. In the summer, we suggest that you have at least 2 warm layers beneath the jacket. In the winter, wear at least 3 layers underneath. You can always take off one of these layers if you’re too warm.

Why are jeans not allowed?

Denim is a highly absorbent material that will easily get wet during the hike. This will not only drastically add to its weight but also increase the chances of frostbite. To avoid such situations, we suggest that you wear lightweight joggers or track pants under the facility’s waterproof overpants.

Is it safe to drive up to Franz Josef?

Although there is good connectivity between nearby towns and Franz Josef by road, it is best to drive up to the glacier only if you have experience driving under rain or snow. The road conditions may be unpredictable, especially during the winter, so drive up here at your own discretion.

Franz Josef Heli Hike - Expert Guided Glacier Adventure

From happy customers

Loved by 50 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

John M

Australia

Couple

3 weeks ago

Our flight was absolutely fabulous, with our skilled Pilot, Adrian. The weather was abolutely perfect and the views from the Helicopter where breathtaking.

Judith M

Australia

Couple

Mar 2026

#The entire flight from start to finish was excellent. Our pilot Paul was great. 5 🌟 The view was spectacular and to be able to get out and stand on the ice/snow, WOW.

Mrs Elaine R

United Kingdom

Couple

Apr 2026

Ground crew and pilot were first class. The flight through the clouds was awesome and then WOW! The glacier and blue sky above was spectacular! What an experience, I would highly recommend this company.

Emily G

Australia

Couple

Jan 2026

An absolutely amazing experience!! Thank you for such an incredible time. It was absolutely magical! Our pilot was great!

Ashley G

Australia

Couple

Mar 2026

+1 more

Being Queenslanders, seeing snow is not a common sight, let alone having a chance to be amonst it. The helicopter ride was smooth and fabulous giving fantastic views, The Pilot was very informative, friendly and very accommodating to ensure we have those not to be missed photos. Thoroughly recommend.

Yang L

China

Family

Feb 2026

+2 more

We can truly feel the grandeur and majesty of the glaciers. You can clearly see their outlines, and even the blue ice . This was a wonderful journey. We witnessed the magnificent glaciers and the miracles of nature.

Karen B

United Kingdom

Couple

Mar 2026

Our helicopter trip and snow landing was brilliant. Our pilot was excellent, explaining what we were looking at, explaining the safety and taking photos when we were on the snow landing. An awesome experience!

Ian C

United Kingdom

Couple

Jan 2026

+1 more

It was a day for firsts for me, flying in a helicopter and walking on a glacier. Both where very exciting. The whole day is well run, from the people getting your kit sorted to the guides on the glacier. Highly recommend this activity. The views from the helicopter are breathtaking and from the glacier are stunning.

Why a heli hike is the best way to explore Franz Josef

1/4

View ever-changing icy landscapes

Glaciologists consider the Franz Josef glacier a ‘rock star’ because its altitude and geographical features keep the ice constantly moving. Large chunks of ice moving down a narrow valley form beautiful cracks and towering seracs that you can marvel at during your helicopter ride.

Marvel at breathtaking rainforest glacier views

Franz Josef is a part of the Southern Alps and is surrounded by not only other peaks but also a lush rainforest. As you gaze upon the beautiful views of icy peaks, low-lying clouds and the forest below, your guide will tell you all about the significance of the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers in the local Maori culture.

View icy seracs, caves and crevasses

With its icy sheets constantly moving and changing forms, you can see some truly mesmerizing ice formations at Franz Josef. As the ice rumbles and crashes into itself, it causes gaping cracks, icy waterfalls and towering peaks. You can view them on your chopper ride as well as see them up close during your guided glacier hike.

Enjoy a safe, guided adventure

While this experience may not be entirely risk-free, you’ll have a glacier expert to guide you throughout your journey. Navigate risky terrains and pass through fascinating ice formations with your glacier guide by your side. The facility will also give you wetsuits, a fanny pack and all the other necessary gear to keep you safe and comfortable throughout your journey.

What your Franz Josef heli hike experience includes

Arrival

The slot mentioned on your voucher is the check-in time. We suggest that you arrive at least 15 minutes before check-in to make sure you have sufficient time to prepare for your tour, including a medical check and a quick training session.

Medical check

The facility will perform a basic fitness check to see if you’ll be able to complete the entire hike. The Franz Josef heli hike is considered an adventure experience and you’ll need to be physically fit to complete it. As long as you exercise regularly and are able to walk comfortably for more than 2 hours, you’ll be eligible to participate.

Briefing

Your guide will give you a 15-minute brief on what to expect on your helicopter tour and the hike. During the hike, you’ll need to climb large steps carved into the ice, pass through tunnels, or walk carefully on fragile terrain. Listen to your guide’s instructions carefully to remain safe during the hike and use this opportunity to clarify any doubts.

Gearing up

The facility will give you a waterproof overcoat and a pair of waterproof overpants to wear above your current clothes to keep you dry during the hike. Use the fanny pack provided by the facility to keep essential items with you like your phone, a small water bottle, some snacks if you need, gloves and sunglasses. Leave behind valuables like jewelry or your passport to avoid losing them.

Helicopter ride

Before the hike, you’ll be taken to the top of the glacier on a short 5.5-minute ride. Keep your eyes peeled for beautiful glacier-rainforest scenes, towering seracs and blue ice! The chopper will let you land on the ice and also pick you up from the same spot after your hike.

Glacier hike

You will likely join a small group of up to 10 people for your hike. Your guide will take you on a long 2.5-hour hike atop Franz Josef to explore its various ice formations. You may get to slide on icy crevasses, squeeze through narrow ice caves, navigate staggering seracs, or, if you’re lucky, try them all!

Safety restrictions for Franz Josef heli hike

Min. age is 18 years: You should be at least 18 years old to book this experience. If you’re younger than 18, an adult should book the experience for you and also accompany you on the tour.
Max. weight: The max weight should be 115kg or 253.5lb. Due to safety concerns, anyone above this weight limit will not be allowed to participate in the heli hike.
Child restrictions: If you’re bringing a child on the heli hike, the child should be at least 10 years old, have a min. height of 137cm and min. weight of 35kg.

Physical fitness: You must be physically fit to participate in the heli hike. You should be able to complete the hike as long as you engage in regular exercise and physical activity.
Pregnancy and medical conditions: You will be unable to participate in the heli hike if you’re pregnant or have any other pre-existing conditions like knee or ankle injuries, neck or back injuries, joint dislocation or replacement, heart conditions, respiratory issues, high or low blood pressure, or diabetes.
Doctor’s recommendation: While it’s not a necessity, we suggest that you get a doctor’s recommendation for the heli hike, especially if you have any of the medical conditions mentioned above or have undergone surgery in the last 10 years.
Alcohol: You’ll need to be alert for your Franz Josef heli hike, which means that you’re not allowed to be under the influence of any drugs or alcohol. If suspected, you will be denied participation.

*Note: If your glacier guide decides that you’re unfit for the experience, you will not be entitled to a refund. So it’s best to come with a doctor’s recommendation.*

Forecast: A Franz Josef heli hike is heavily dependent on weather conditions. We suggest that you check the weather forecast on the day or the day before your experience.
Weather conditions: Rain, heavy winds and high sun exposure can cause sudden changes in the terrain or affect the helicopter’s flight and could lead to the cancelation of your experience.
Hazards: The Franz Josef glacier changes quite rapidly, causing new cracks and crevasses every day. There are some natural hazards, including but not limited to, ice and rock falls, avalanches, heavy rain, flooding, uneven terrain and cold exposure.
Stay: As the experience is conducted in a mountain environment, harsh weather conditions may need you to spend the night atop the glacier. In such circumstances, your guide will help you figure out your stay options.
Guide discretion: If at any point, before or during the experience, your glacier guide deems that it’s unsafe to proceed onto the heli hike, then the experience may be canceled.

Gear provided: The facility will give you crampons, a helmet, harnesses, a waterproof jacket and overpants, waterproof hiking boots and socks, trekking poles, a fanny pack to carry your essentials, a warm hat and gloves.
Bringing your own gear: You can also bring your own waterproof vest and boots for the experience. However, we suggest that you use the gear provided by the facility to avoid any damage to your equipment due to the ice.
Safety briefing: Your glacier guide will brief you on important details and hazards you’ll need to look out for. Use this time to clear all your queries with your guide.
Follow your guide: Participating in a Franz Josef heli hike also means that you agree to listen to your guide’s instructions to the tee. The facility or the guide reserves the right to cancel your experience if you fail to comply with their instructions.

*Risk factor: The Franz Josef heli hike is an adventure activity and carries a certain level of inherent risk. You will be asked to sign a waiver form. Follow your guide’s instructions for your own safety.*

Dress warm: Carry warm inner layers made from polypropylene or merino to wear under your waterproof jacket.
Avoid jeans: Jeans can get wet during your experience, causing them to become heavy and uncomfortable during the hike. Wear trousers, jeggings or track pants instead.
Sunglasses: This is an essential item to protect your eyes from the bright light reflected off the snow. If you don’t have a pair of sunglasses, you can also purchase a pair at the facility’s front desk.
Sunscreen
If you prefer, your own warm hat and gloves.
A small water bottle and snacks, if needed.
Don’t bring: Leave behind essential items like jewelry, passport, wallet, keys, etc. We also suggest that you carry light and not bring a backpack as there is limited space on the helicopter.

Plan your Franz Josef heli hike

Every day: From 7:30am to 8:15am, then from 10am to 1:15pm

Slots are available every 15 minutes

Check-in: The check-in time is 15 minutes before the slot mentioned on your voucher.

Tour duration: 4 hours from check-in to end of experience

Hike duration: About 2.5 hours spent exploring the glacier

Closure: Christmas Day - 25th December

Plan your visit to Franz Josef

Peak season: December to February (Summer); Low season: June to August (Winter)

Although great for a visit at any time of the yeat, the best time to visit Franz Josef for you would depend on what you want to see and the level of adventure you desire.

Summer (12 to 19°C): The glacier changes more rapidly with the melting snow in the summer. While this creates more dramatic ice formations, it also means that the hike may be a tad riskier. However, there are also opportunities to take a few layers off and click pictures against the white backdrop!

Winter (-15 to 5°C): During the winter, you can expect a much calmer glacier with more stagnant ice formations. The weather is relatively stable, the crowds are fewer and temperatures here don’t plummet as much as most other glaciers. If you’re a beginner to mountain hikes, plan your Franz Josef hike in the winter when the landscapes are stable for longer.

Detailed best time to visit Franz Josef

Address: Franz Josef Glacier Guides(FJGG), Te Ao Marama, Glacier Base, 63 Cron Street Franz Josef Glacier Franz Josef Glacier, 7886, New Zealand. Find on Maps
You will have to check in at Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre.

By car:
From Christchurch, take the SH73 until Kumara and turn left at Kumara Junction. Take the SH6 the rest of the way to Franz Josef Glacier.
From Queenstown, take the SH6 that passes through Wanaka and then Haast up to the Franz Josef glacier.

By bus: There are multiple bus services from nearby towns, including Greymouth, Hokitika, Christchurch, Queenstown, and more.

Directions to Franz Josef

Here are some eateries that are just a short walk away from the FJGG facility for when you’re famished after your heli hike.

The Landing Restaurant & Bar: Offering a wide variety of snacks, pastas, pizzas and mains along with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, this restaurant is an easy pick for when you’re not sure of what to eat. The Belgian waffles from their breakfast menu is a must-try.

Alice May Restaurant & Bar: A tribute to the locally famous Alice May Parkinson, this restaurant serves burgers, steaks and pastas with a variety of side dishes, including seasonal vegetables, and desserts.

SnakeBite Brewery: If you’re craving Asian food, check out some baos, dumplings and ramen at SnakeBite. They also have a selection of reds and whites and beer on tap to pair with your food.

Budget stay:

Mid-range stay:

Luxury stay:

Keep children in view: The glacier hike will likely include steep steps and rough terrain. Always hold your kids’ hands while moving and keep them in sight.
Plan your transit: If you don’t have your own vehicle to drive down to Franz Josef, plan your transportation options beforehand as tickets get booked well in advance, especially for trains.
Be prepared with a doc’s approval: If your glacier guide decides that you’re unfit for the heli hike, you will lose out on a refund. It’s best to get your doctor’s seal of approval to guarantee your experience.
Check the forecast: Drastic weather changes can affect the path of the hike and the helicopter’s flight, or you may also need to stay the night on the glacier. Keep informed by checking the weather forecast on or a day before your experience. Rest assured that if your heli hike is canceled due to the weather, you will be entitled to a full refund.
Stay vigilant: Although a guide will be present with you at all times, a Franz Josef heli hike counts as an adventure activity and comes with a certain level of risk. Listen to the guide carefully, watch your step and avoid straying from the path during the hike for your safety.

Frequently asked questions about Franz Josef heli hike

As long as you remain active regularly and have some experience with hiking, you should be able to participate in the heli hike without any issues. However, if you’ve had a history of any medical conditions, we suggest that you get a doctor’s recommendation to remain on the safe side.

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, and sunglasses.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.

Additional information

Please note the guided walk is 400 m through pristine rainforest in Westland National Park. Expect some roots and a few steps early on. Your skipper and guides walk with you, offering help and sharing conservation tips. Handlines and walking poles are available if needed, and the walk is usually done one way with pickup at the end.

Inclusions #

2.5-hour scenic cruise & guided rainforest walk experience
Scenic cruise across Lake Mapourika
Expert skipper & tour guide
Guided nature walk on an exclusive rainforest track
Walking poles, wet weather equipment, & hot drinks

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, and sunglasses.

What's not allowed

Guests below 110cm are restricted from riding the buggy whereas guests below 145cm are restricted from riding the double quad bike on this experience.
The combined weight of two passengers on the double quad bike must not exceed 220 kg.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.

Additional information

Drivers must be a minimum of 16 years or older (no drivers license required).
Drivers with passengers must be a minimum of 18 years or older.
All drivers must pass a test track prior to taking part in the tour.

Inclusions #

2-hour guided off-road adventure tour
Expert tour guide
Safety briefing & test run
Choose between a single quad bike, double quad or buggy
Pants, helmets, gloves, gumboots, & jackets
Free photos

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Maximise your views—two iconic glaciers, one flight with a snow landing on Franz Josef.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 30-minute helicopter flight over both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soaring above icefalls, mountains, and rainforest valleys. Touch down on Franz Josef Glacier for a snow landing, where you can step out, take photos, and enjoy live commentary from your experienced pilot.
Why choose this: This twin-glacier flight offers more variety in one short experience, combining views of two famous glaciers with a memorable snow landing—ideal for travellers wanting maximum scenery without a long time commitment.

Inclusions #

30-minute flight over Fox and Franz Josef Glacier
Snow landing on Franz Josef glacier
Pilot guide

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.
Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What to bring

Bring along your sunscreen, hat, camera, warm top layer, and sunglasses.

What’s not allowed

Children below 3 are not allowed this experience.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.
Pregnant women are recommended to speak to their doctors first before undertaking this activity.

Additional information

Guests do not need to know how to swim to join the kayak tour.

Inclusions #

3-hour kayaking tour across Lake Mapourika
4-hour kayaking & rainforest walk tour (as per option selected)
Expert local guide
Guided rainforest walk on an exclusive rainforest track (as per option selected)
Warm drink on the beach (as per option selected)
Dry bag, paddles, kaya skirt, paddle, pogies, & wet weather equipment
Free photos

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What to bring

Bring along your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.

Additional information

Facilities: Toilet onboard.

Inclusions #

2-hour scenic cruise across Lake Mapourika
Expert skipper
Live commentary
Hot coffee or tea

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

The ultimate glacier flight—two glaciers, alpine peaks, & a snow landing.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 40-minute helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, and surrounding alpine landscapes, including dramatic icefalls, rugged peaks, and rainforest valleys. Land on snow atop Franz Josef Glacier to step out, take photos, and experience the alpine environment up close, with live commentary from your expert pilot throughout the flight.
Why choose this: This grand glacier flight delivers the most comprehensive aerial experience in the region, combining multiple glaciers, mountain scenery, and a snow landing—perfect for travellers wanting the ultimate scenic helicopter adventure in one unforgettable trip.

Inclusions #

40-minute Mt.Tasman, Mt.Cook, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour
Snow landing on Franz Josef glacier
Pilot guide

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.
Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Full-day Fox Glacier adventure with round-trip helicopter flight & glacier hike.

Everything you get: Full-day guided heli-hike with round-trip helicopter flights and ground transport. Explore the glacier with expert guides, equipped with all gear including socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves, hats, waterproof jacket, backpack, and over-trousers.
Why choose this: Experience Fox Glacier like few ever can — a full-day adventure with scenic helicopter flights, glacier landing, and guided ice exploration.

Inclusions #

Full-day tour of Fox Glacier
Round-trip helicopter ride
Expert guides
Ground transport
Socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves & hats
Waterproof jacket, backpack & over trousers

What to bring

Bring along your warm, breathable base layers, suitable long pants for walking in (tracksuits and leggings are fine).
You can also bring your own water bottle, drinks, sunglasses, sunblock and snacks.

What's not allowed

Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.
Drones, valuables, portable chargers and spare batteries are not allowed on this experience.
This experience is restricted for guests above 116kg and under the age of 13.
There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.

Additional information

Please note that guests must be very good in English in order to participate in this experience as the instructions will be given by the guide in English.
A good fitness requirement is needed for this tour. Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
A minimum of 2 guests are required for this tour.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, and sunglasses.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.

Additional information

Please note the guided walk is 400 m through pristine rainforest in Westland National Park. Expect some roots and a few steps early on. Your skipper and guides walk with you, offering help and sharing conservation tips. Handlines and walking poles are available if needed, and the walk is usually done one way with pickup at the end.

Inclusions #

2.5-hour scenic cruise & guided rainforest walk experience
Scenic cruise across Lake Mapourika
Expert skipper & tour guide
Guided nature walk on an exclusive rainforest track
Walking poles, wet weather equipment, & hot drinks

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, and sunglasses.

What's not allowed

Guests below 110cm are restricted from riding the buggy whereas guests below 145cm are restricted from riding the double quad bike on this experience.
The combined weight of two passengers on the double quad bike must not exceed 220 kg.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.

Additional information

Drivers must be a minimum of 16 years or older (no drivers license required).
Drivers with passengers must be a minimum of 18 years or older.
All drivers must pass a test track prior to taking part in the tour.

Inclusions #

2-hour guided off-road adventure tour
Expert tour guide
Safety briefing & test run
Choose between a single quad bike, double quad or buggy
Pants, helmets, gloves, gumboots, & jackets
Free photos

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Maximise your views—two iconic glaciers, one flight with a snow landing on Franz Josef.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 30-minute helicopter flight over both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soaring above icefalls, mountains, and rainforest valleys. Touch down on Franz Josef Glacier for a snow landing, where you can step out, take photos, and enjoy live commentary from your experienced pilot.
Why choose this: This twin-glacier flight offers more variety in one short experience, combining views of two famous glaciers with a memorable snow landing—ideal for travellers wanting maximum scenery without a long time commitment.

Inclusions #

30-minute flight over Fox and Franz Josef Glacier
Snow landing on Franz Josef glacier
Pilot guide

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.
Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What to bring

Bring along your sunscreen, hat, camera, warm top layer, and sunglasses.

What’s not allowed

Children below 3 are not allowed this experience.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair and pram/ stroller accessible.
Pregnant women are recommended to speak to their doctors first before undertaking this activity.

Additional information

Guests do not need to know how to swim to join the kayak tour.

Inclusions #

3-hour kayaking tour across Lake Mapourika
4-hour kayaking & rainforest walk tour (as per option selected)
Expert local guide
Guided rainforest walk on an exclusive rainforest track (as per option selected)
Warm drink on the beach (as per option selected)
Dry bag, paddles, kaya skirt, paddle, pogies, & wet weather equipment
Free photos

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

The ultimate glacier flight—two glaciers, alpine peaks, & a snow landing.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 40-minute helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, and surrounding alpine landscapes, including dramatic icefalls, rugged peaks, and rainforest valleys. Land on snow atop Franz Josef Glacier to step out, take photos, and experience the alpine environment up close, with live commentary from your expert pilot throughout the flight.
Why choose this: This grand glacier flight delivers the most comprehensive aerial experience in the region, combining multiple glaciers, mountain scenery, and a snow landing—perfect for travellers wanting the ultimate scenic helicopter adventure in one unforgettable trip.

Inclusions #

40-minute Mt.Tasman, Mt.Cook, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour
Snow landing on Franz Josef glacier
Pilot guide

What to bring

Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.
Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.
Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.
Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Full-day Fox Glacier adventure with round-trip helicopter flight & glacier hike.

Everything you get: Full-day guided heli-hike with round-trip helicopter flights and ground transport. Explore the glacier with expert guides, equipped with all gear including socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves, hats, waterproof jacket, backpack, and over-trousers.
Why choose this: Experience Fox Glacier like few ever can — a full-day adventure with scenic helicopter flights, glacier landing, and guided ice exploration.

Inclusions #

Full-day tour of Fox Glacier
Round-trip helicopter ride
Expert guides
Ground transport
Socks, climbing boots, crampons, gloves & hats
Waterproof jacket, backpack & over trousers

What to bring

Bring along your warm, breathable base layers, suitable long pants for walking in (tracksuits and leggings are fine).
You can also bring your own water bottle, drinks, sunglasses, sunblock and snacks.

What's not allowed

Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.
Drones, valuables, portable chargers and spare batteries are not allowed on this experience.
This experience is restricted for guests above 116kg and under the age of 13.
There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.

Additional information

Please note that guests must be very good in English in order to participate in this experience as the instructions will be given by the guide in English.
A good fitness requirement is needed for this tour. Good fitness for this trip is a level of fitness sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg (26lb) or more over multiple days.
A minimum of 2 guests are required for this tour.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Franz Josef heli hike tickets

From happy customers

Glimpse shifting icy landscapes with a guided Franz Josef heli hike

Why a heli hike is the best way to explore Franz Josef

View ever-changing icy landscapes

Marvel at breathtaking rainforest glacier views

View icy seracs, caves and crevasses

Enjoy a safe, guided adventure

What your Franz Josef heli hike experience includes

Arrival

Medical check

Briefing

Gearing up

Helicopter ride

Glacier hike

Safety restrictions for Franz Josef heli hike

Views of icy peaks and crevasses on a Franz Josef helicopter hike

Plan your Franz Josef heli hike

Other experiences at Franz Josef

Helicopter tour

Skydive

Frequently asked questions about Franz Josef heli hike

How do I know if I’m fit for the heli hike?

What if the heli hike is canceled due to weather conditions?

Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, which is better?

Is a helicopter tour worth it compared to a guided hike?

Will I see blue ice on my Franz Josef heli hike?

What is included in a Franz Josef heli hike?

What other activities can I book at Franz Josef?

How many people can go on a single heli hike?

Are there any additional fees I need to be aware of?

Can I reschedule the heli hike on the day of the tour?

Can I bring a backpack for my heli hike?

What is the temperature on the Franz Josef glacier?

How many layers should I wear?

Why are jeans not allowed?

Is it safe to drive up to Franz Josef?

Franz Josef heli hike tickets

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed