See the Franz Josef Glacier from the air on a scenic 20-minute helicopter flight above ice falls, snowfields, and crevasses. Experience the thrill of a snow landing to see the icy landscape up close and take in incredible views across the glacier.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 20 minutes
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
Experience
Highlights
- Discover Franz Josef Glacier from above on a 20-minute scenic helicopter flight including a snow landing
- See the glacier from the air and admire panoramic views of the ice fields below
- Choose from several departure times throughout the day to suit any itinerary
Full description
Journey into the largely inaccessible heart of the majestic Southern Alps on a 20-minute helicopter flight to Franz Josef Glacier. Experience a snow landing and explore the ice falls, to see some of the most stunning ice architecture of any glacier in the world. Following a spectacular collapse of the terminal face in 2012, the glacier is now only accessible by helicopter.
Make your way to a central location in Franz Josef township, where you will check in for the flight. Lift off, and fly above the glacier that stretches through Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Admire the thick forest that creeps to the edge of the ice and appreciate the spectacular views of the glacier from above.
Midway through the flight you will land on part of the glacier snowfield in a location that, without specialized equipment and mountaineering guides, is only accessible by helicopter. Soak in the views, capture some incredible photos then return to the helicopter for the return flight to Franz Josef township.
Includes
- 20-minute scenic helicopter flight
- Snow landing
- Inflight commentary from your experienced pilot
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
The helicopter base in Franz Josef, Main South Road SH6, Franz Josef 7856, New Zealand.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
Know before you go
- All flights are subject to favorable weather conditions. It is recommended to book for your first available day in Franz Josef so that you have maximum flexibility to roll on to the next available date
- Your flight date and/or time may be different to the one requested. The local operator will confirm your exact flight time by email after booking
- Children 4 - 14 years and over 15kg must have their own seat
- Infants (under 4 and under 15kg) are required to sit on an adult's knee. Infants that weight 15kg and over on the date of travel will be charged at child rates.
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements and you’ll be offered an alternative or full refund
- The road leading north out of Franz Josef is closed until further notice due to flooding
