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Franz Josef Heli-Tour
- Heli-skiing is so last year. Now, we're heli-hiking—taking a helicopter over the Southern Alps and then a 2-hour guided hike on the Franz Josef glacier, covered with bright blue ice.
- Hover above the lush farmlands, riverbeds, and rainforests as you descend on a 12km long glacier which, from the air, looks like a tsunami frozen in time.
- Put on your crampon and grab your walking sticks as you follow your guide through ice tunnels, pass by striking ice formations, and towering pinnacles.
- Marvel at the picturesque tussock grasslands of Westland National Park as your guide delves into the region's geology, flora and fauna, and history.
- Rest assured, we've got you covered with the mountaineering guide and specialized equipment. Don't miss capturing insta-worthy shots as the mountains glow peony-pink at first light.
- Heli-skiing is so last year. Now, we're heli-hiking—taking a helicopter over the Southern Alps and then a 2-hour guided hike on the Franz Josef glacier, covered with bright blue ice.
- Hover above the lush farmlands, riverbeds, and rainforests as you descend on a 12km long glacier which, from the air, looks like a tsunami frozen in time.
- Put on your crampon and grab your walking sticks as you follow your guide through ice tunnels, pass by striking ice formations, and towering pinnacles.
- Marvel at the picturesque tussock grasslands of Westland National Park as your guide delves into the region's geology, flora and fauna, and history.
- Rest assured, we've got you covered with the mountaineering guide and specialized equipment. Don't miss capturing insta-worthy shots as the mountains glow peony-pink at first light.
Inclusions
- 2-hour guided glacier hike
- Round-trip helicopter ride to Franz Josef Glacier
- English-speaking expert mountaineering guide
- Glacier boots & socks
- Ice crampons
- Waterproof jacket & pants
- Tip: The area surrounding Franz Josef Glacier is part of Te Wahipounamu, a World Heritage Site park. Check out the Waiho River that emerges from the glacier terminal of Franz Josef.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to children under the age of 10 years, under the weight of 35kg, and under the height of 137cm.
- Children are not permitted on heli-hikes before 11am from late May to early September.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests over the weight of 115kg.
- This experience is restricted to pregnant women, people with heart problems, or other serious health conditions.
- Keep your drones, iPads, or selfie sticks tucked away, they are not allowed on board for safety.
- Franz Josef Glacier is an unstable geological feature that presents certain hazards, including, but not limited to: avalanches, rock fall, ice fall, heavy rainfall, cold exposure, height, flooding, uneven terrain, slip trips, and sun exposure.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get ready for a high-five with the sky! Take off on a chopper for a 20/30/40-min ride over the Southern Alps and touchdown on top of the Franz Josef Glacier.
- Meet at the helicopter base and prepare for liftoff! Soar above the rainforest and alpine lakes, all while your pilot shares insights on the landscape.
- Opt to fly over the Fox Glacier for an extra adventure! From your bird's-eye view, soak in the panorama of icefalls, crevasses, and seracs in all their glory.
- Speaking of leaving you speechless, upgrade your ticket for the sight of Mt.Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain, and the turquoise Tasman Lake.
- Come to a stop with a spectacular snow landing in a frozen paradise. Pull out your camera to snap the endless vistas, or just let the child inside you scoop the soft snow.
- Get ready for a high-five with the sky! Take off on a chopper for a 20/30/40-min ride over the Southern Alps and touchdown on top of the Franz Josef Glacier.
- Meet at the helicopter base and prepare for liftoff! Soar above the rainforest and alpine lakes, all while your pilot shares insights on the landscape.
- Opt to fly over the Fox Glacier for an extra adventure! From your bird's-eye view, soak in the panorama of icefalls, crevasses, and seracs in all their glory.
- Speaking of leaving you speechless, upgrade your ticket for the sight of Mt.Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain, and the turquoise Tasman Lake.
- Come to a stop with a spectacular snow landing in a frozen paradise. Pull out your camera to snap the endless vistas, or just let the child inside you scoop the soft snow.
Inclusions
- 20-min Franz Josef helicopter tour
- Snow landing
- Pilot guide
- 30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (optional)
- 40-min Glaciers & Mt. Cook helicopter tour (optional)
- Tip: When you snow land on Franz Josef, do not miss out on creating insta-worthy reels of the blue ice!
- 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.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Fly on a chopper above Fox Glacier and revel in a 3-hour guided trek on the icy wonderland, offering a front-row seat to the sublime beauty of Mt.Cook and Mt.Tasman.
- Buckle up for a 4-min helicopter ride, as you get close to towering crevasses made of iridescent ice, before careening towards the landing point at Victoria Falls.
- Strap your crampons, grab your ice axe, and follow your guide as you explore the rugged contours of the glacier ridges that look like waves of water frozen in time.
- Feeling extra adventurous? Opt for a full-day hike of the Fox Glacier. Squeeze through icy blue crevasses, crawl through ice caves and climb icy staircases for glorious views!
- You’re in for a day full of adventure (and safety) with expert mountaineering guides and all specialist equipment ready to make your glacial journey one to remember!
- Fly on a chopper above Fox Glacier and revel in a 3-hour guided trek on the icy wonderland, offering a front-row seat to the sublime beauty of Mt.Cook and Mt.Tasman.
- Buckle up for a 4-min helicopter ride, as you get close to towering crevasses made of iridescent ice, before careening towards the landing point at Victoria Falls.
- Strap your crampons, grab your ice axe, and follow your guide as you explore the rugged contours of the glacier ridges that look like waves of water frozen in time.
- Feeling extra adventurous? Opt for a full-day hike of the Fox Glacier. Squeeze through icy blue crevasses, crawl through ice caves and climb icy staircases for glorious views!
- You’re in for a day full of adventure (and safety) with expert mountaineering guides and all specialist equipment ready to make your glacial journey one to remember!
Inclusions
- 4-hour guided Fox Glacier hike
- Round-trip helicopter ride
- English-speaking expert mountaineering guide
- Leather boots & crampons
- Hats, gloves & backpack
- Waterproof jacket & overtrousers
- Tip: Try to spot the rainforest from the glacier's edge – it’s one of the only places in the world where a glacier ends with a rainforest.
- Wearing jeans is not allowed.
- Safety is a priority. So, this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 8 years and weighing more than 116kg.
- Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
- This experience requires good fitness level, sufficient to ascend and descend 1000m+ over 8 hours or more carrying a pack 12kg.
- Leather boots, socks, crampons, walking poles, a waterproof jacket, overtrousers and a backpack will be provided.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Trade the hiking trails for snow-capped mountains on a 20/30/40-min helicopter ride to make a snow landing on the Fox Glacier.
- Opt for the Franz Josef Glacier tour to enjoy the best of both worlds and admire the tapestry of glaciers, where black rocks contrast the bright peaks.
- Ready for an upgrade that'll blow your mind? See Mt.Cook, monarch of the Southern Alps piercing the heavens– it's like stepping into a living postcard!
- Why settle for less when you can have it all? Experience the best of the Southern Alps with an all-inclusive package: Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Mt.Tasman, and Mt.Cook, all in one trip!
- As you make your snow landing, you will be met with ever-extending snowy mountains, majestic pinnacles, and an icy landscape that begs to be clicked.
- Trade the hiking trails for snow-capped mountains on a 20/30/40-min helicopter ride to make a snow landing on the Fox Glacier.
- Opt for the Franz Josef Glacier tour to enjoy the best of both worlds and admire the tapestry of glaciers, where black rocks contrast the bright peaks.
- Ready for an upgrade that'll blow your mind? See Mt.Cook, monarch of the Southern Alps piercing the heavens– it's like stepping into a living postcard!
- Why settle for less when you can have it all? Experience the best of the Southern Alps with an all-inclusive package: Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Mt.Tasman, and Mt.Cook, all in one trip!
- As you make your snow landing, you will be met with ever-extending snowy mountains, majestic pinnacles, and an icy landscape that begs to be clicked.
Inclusions
- 20-min Fox Glacier helicopter tour
- Snow landing
- Pilot guide
- 30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (optional)
- 30-min Fox Glacier & Mt.Cook helicopter tour (optional)
- 40-min Glaciers, Mt.Cook & Mt.Tasman helicopter tour (optional)
- Tip: When you snow land on Fox Glacier, do not miss out on creating insta-worthy reels of the Victoria Falls descending from the Victoria Glacier,
- 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.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Ready for your first jump from the plane? Don't worry, with Tandem Skydiving you're in good hands! Freefall from 10,000ft above Franz Josef, New Zealand’s fastest-moving glacier.
- With your very own skydiving guardian angel harnessed along, freefall through the clouds for 30-85 seconds at an incredible speed of 200kph/120mph.
- Ascend to the skies in a glider as you revel in views of the snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and the Tasman Sea - a perfect backdrop for your aerial adventure.
- Choose your altitude with a ticket upgrade: Dive from 10,000ft, 13,000ft, 16,500ft, or go all out at 18,000ft, the sky's the limit! Literally!
- Gaze upon the majestic Southern Alps and the rugged beauty of the West Coast, voted one of the most scenic skydives in the world, beaten only by Mt. Everest.
- Ready for your first jump from the plane? Don't worry, with Tandem Skydiving you're in good hands! Freefall from 10,000ft above Franz Josef, New Zealand’s fastest-moving glacier.
- With your very own skydiving guardian angel harnessed along, freefall through the clouds for 30-85 seconds at an incredible speed of 200kph/120mph.
- Ascend to the skies in a glider as you revel in views of the snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and the Tasman Sea - a perfect backdrop for your aerial adventure.
- Choose your altitude with a ticket upgrade: Dive from 10,000ft, 13,000ft, 16,500ft, or go all out at 18,000ft, the sky's the limit! Literally!
- Gaze upon the majestic Southern Alps and the rugged beauty of the West Coast, voted one of the most scenic skydives in the world, beaten only by Mt. Everest.
Inclusions
- Tandem skydive from 10,000ft/13,000ft/16,500ft/18,000ft
- Freefall for 30/45/60/85-seconds at 120 miles/hour
- Professionally trained instructor
- World-class safety measures
- Tip: Winter in New Zealand is widely considered the best time to visit the Franz Josef Glacier.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests over the weight of 100kg.
- The weight restriction may occasionally be raised to 120kg, subject to the discretion of the Tandem Master and prevailing weather conditions. Additional charges may be applicable in such cases.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Like intrepid explorers of old, get whisked away on a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier donning your crampons and gear, as you prepare to climb the glistening glaciers.
- You will master ice climbing with a low 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio, as you get instructions tailored to your skill level, whether you're a newcomer or an experienced climber.
- Advance on the steep glacial pitches as you pierce your axes on the frozen crevasses and icy overhangs while strung to a harness, against a backdrop of towering Mt. Cook.
- Navigate the blue landscape without worries as all the necessary technical gear and waterproof clothing will be provided for you to master ice climbing techniques.
- Propel towards Fox Glacier Township in a heli-ride over the Southern Alps as you reflect on the vistas conquered amidst the untamed wilderness of Fox Glacier.
- Like intrepid explorers of old, get whisked away on a helicopter ride towards Fox Glacier donning your crampons and gear, as you prepare to climb the glistening glaciers.
- You will master ice climbing with a low 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio, as you get instructions tailored to your skill level, whether you're a newcomer or an experienced climber.
- Advance on the steep glacial pitches as you pierce your axes on the frozen crevasses and icy overhangs while strung to a harness, against a backdrop of towering Mt. Cook.
- Navigate the blue landscape without worries as all the necessary technical gear and waterproof clothing will be provided for you to master ice climbing techniques.
- Propel towards Fox Glacier Township in a heli-ride over the Southern Alps as you reflect on the vistas conquered amidst the untamed wilderness of Fox Glacier.
Inclusions
- Ice climbing at Fox Glacier
- Expert mountaineering guide
- Round-trip helicopter transfer
- Socks & climbing boots
- Crampons
- Waterproof jacket & trousers
- Gloves & hats
- All technical & safety gear
- Backpacks
- Tip: Use ice tools and the front points of your crampons to climb overhanging ice walls and pinnacles and always keep your top rope attached to your harness.
- 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.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years and weighing more than 116kg.
- Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
- 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.
- There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- While New Zealand is full of scenic overlooks, nothing compares to exploring the ancient podocarp rainforest at Fox Glacier Valley on a guided E-bike and hiking tour.
- Beginning in Fox Glacier Village, pedal along the cycleway before parking your e-bikes to ascend hills on foot in leather boots while your guide shares the region's finest tales.
- Start a picturesque hike through lush foliage, passing Cone Rock and New Zealand’s largest active landslip, leading to the viewpoint of the Fox Glacier's terminal face.
- You’re in for a day full of adventure with the necessary gear such as a helmet, boot, waterproof jacket, and backpack, to make your hike one to remember!
- While New Zealand is full of scenic overlooks, nothing compares to exploring the ancient podocarp rainforest at Fox Glacier Valley on a guided E-bike and hiking tour.
- Beginning in Fox Glacier Village, pedal along the cycleway before parking your e-bikes to ascend hills on foot in leather boots while your guide shares the region's finest tales.
- Start a picturesque hike through lush foliage, passing Cone Rock and New Zealand’s largest active landslip, leading to the viewpoint of the Fox Glacier's terminal face.
- You’re in for a day full of adventure with the necessary gear such as a helmet, boot, waterproof jacket, and backpack, to make your hike one to remember!
Inclusions
- Tour of Fox Glacier Valley
- Expert guide
- E-bike
- Bike helmet
- Leather boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Backpack
- Tip: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. It's not uncommon to spot various bird species in the rainforest.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years and weighing more than 116kg.
- Large bags, and drones are not allowed.
- A moderate level of fitness is required for this tour which is sufficient to ascend and descend 500-800m over 4-6 hours carrying a light pack of 10kg (22lb).
- There is a 3 kg or 6.6 lbs limit per passenger for carry-on baggage.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Embark on a full-day adventure on the majestic Fox Glacier, complete with helicopter flights and a guided hike, offering an unrivaled exploration opportunity.
- Relish the thrill of 2 helicopter rides, swooping over lush rainforests and New Zealand's highest peaks, before landing on the icy wonder that is the Fox Glacier.
- From mountaineering boots and crampons to waterproof clothing and safety gear, everything's taken care of for your comfort and safety, ensuring a memorable glacier adventure.
- During the hike, you'll delve into the glacier’s crevasses, be lowered into a moulin, or even abseil down ice walls.
- Embark on a full-day adventure on the majestic Fox Glacier, complete with helicopter flights and a guided hike, offering an unrivaled exploration opportunity.
- Relish the thrill of 2 helicopter rides, swooping over lush rainforests and New Zealand's highest peaks, before landing on the icy wonder that is the Fox Glacier.
- From mountaineering boots and crampons to waterproof clothing and safety gear, everything's taken care of for your comfort and safety, ensuring a memorable glacier adventure.
- During the hike, you'll delve into the glacier’s crevasses, be lowered into a moulin, or even abseil down ice walls.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Fox Glacier
- Expert guides
- 2 helicopter flights
- Ground transport
- Socks and climbing boots
- Crampons
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Gloves and hats
- All technical and safety gear
- Backpacks
- Tip: Try to spot local wildlife. The area around Fox Glacier is home to various bird species and deer.
- 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 minimum of 2 guests are required for this tour.
- Guests weighing above 116kg and under the age of 13 are restricted from participating in this experience.
- Note that the following items are not allowed during this experience: drones.
- There is a 3kg limit per person for carry-on baggage.
- 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.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Franz Josef
Your Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour options explained
Starting point: Franz Josef Glacier
Duration: 20 minutes (upgradeable to 30/40 minutes)
Get a 360-degree view of the Franz Josef Glacier on this 20-minute helicopter tour, complete with detailed commentary from the pilot. You can upgrade your experience to be a 30 or 40 minute tour as well – with extra views of Mt. Tasman, Mt. Cook, Franz Josef & Fox Glacier!
Recommended experience:
Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Tour
Plan your visit to the Franz Josef Glacier
Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
What to wear/carry
Stay
A helicopter tour of the Franz Josef Glacier lasts about 20-50 minutes, depending on the experience you choose. We’d recommend choosing the longer ones for a more interactive and educational experience!
Best time to visit the glacier: The best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier is during winter (June to August) for fewer crowds, stable weather, and enhanced blue ice features. But if you like warmer weather and don’t mind the crowds, summer (December to February) is perfect!
- Address: Franz Josef Glacier, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand
- Find on map
- InterCity Bus: Daily services from Christchurch, Queenstown, and Greymouth. The journey takes 5-8 hours depending on the starting point.
- By car: Drive via State Highway 6, with ample parking available near the glacier. It’s a scenic 5-6 hour drive from Christchurch.
- By train: Take the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth, then transfer to a bus or shuttle service to Franz Josef Glacier.
- By taxi: Taxis are available but can be expensive. Best for groups or travelers with heavy luggage.
Here are some of the accessibility features available if you’re planning to take a helicopter tour of the glacier:
- Ski-chair: Enables mobility on the glacier after landing.
- Modified helicopter: Accommodates a ski-chair with a ski basket.
- Assistance from staff: For transfers to and from the helicopter.
- Weight limit: 95kg for those needing help boarding.
- Accessible bathroom: Available at the Helicopter Line office.
- Storage: For wheelchairs during the flight.
- Warm, breathable base layers: Preferably made of merino wool or polypropylene.
- Suitable long pants: Avoid jeans; opt for tracksuits or leggings.
- Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the intense glare off the ice.
- Sunblock: Even in colder climates, UV exposure can be high.
- Warm hat and gloves: If you prefer your own over the provided gear.
- Camera or phone: To capture the stunning views.
- Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier: A popular 4-star hotel with mountain views and flexible room options.
- Franz Josef Oasis: A luxury boutique hotel offering ground-floor rooms with stunning mountain and forest views.
- Alpine Glacier Motel: Provides cozy self-contained units with views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
- Rainforest Retreat: Offers a range of accommodations from budget to luxury amidst lush rainforest.
- The Terrace: Centrally located with spacious rooms and close proximity to local attractions.
- Glacier View Motel: Self-catering units with beautiful views of the glacier and surrounding landscape.
- Chateau Backpackers & Motels: A budget-friendly option with communal facilities and a friendly atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions about Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter tours
Is it safe to take a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier?
Helicopter tours of Franz Josef Glacier are operated by experienced pilots who are familiar with the terrain and weather conditions. Safety briefings are provided before the flight, and the helicopters are equipped with modern safety features.
How long does a helicopter tour last?
Helicopter tours typically last 20, 30, or 40 minutes, depending on the experience you choose. These tours include breathtaking views of the glacier, the Southern Alps, and sometimes even snow landings.
Is the glacier accessible year-round?
Franz Josef Glacier is accessible year-round, but weather conditions can affect access to certain areas. We’d recommend checking weather updates and trail conditions before visiting.
What should I wear for a helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier?
We’d recommend wearing warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Weather can change rapidly, so make sure to layer up!
Can I visit both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers in one day?
Yes, you can visit both glaciers in one day as they are only about a 30-minute drive apart. However, to fully experience both glaciers, we’d recommend spending at least an hour or two at each location.
Can I walk to Franz Josef Glacier?
Yes, there are walking tracks that lead to viewing points for the glacier. The main track is about a 5 km round trip and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.