Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Landing
Overview
25 minutes
Mobile ticket
Take in truly magnificent views of Franz Josef Glacier and surrounds with this helicopter flight. See lush rainforest, the amazing glacier, and the impressive Southern Alps mountain range. Part of this flight time is an alpine landing (approximately 10 minutes) where you get to land on top of a peak and pause to take in the dramatic scenery.
• See unforgettable views of the West Coast region
• Get a unique perspective on the Franz Josef Glacier
• Work with a local husband and wife team
• The snow levels on this alpine (rocky mountain) landing site vary seasonally
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please let us know if you have limited mobility e.g. injury, arthritis or recent surgery? There are two high ladder style steps into the helicopter. This information could effect what helicopter we fly you in.
Comfort Seats: Our helicopter seats are 40cm wide, an empty seat can be reserved next to you if you prefer extra space (passengers 120KG & over when weighed at check in will be required to purchase a Comfort Seat - these are half the RRP of your flight).
Please note snow levels on this 25minute flight are seasonal. In summer the alpine landing site may have no snow & be a rocky mountain side. Please book a longer flight option for gauranteed snow.
If we are unable to land due to weather conditions, you will be refunded the $30 landing fee and the flight length reduced by the landing time.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Franz Josef Glacier
The Glacier Explorer flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef Glacier.
What‘s Included
Professional, experienced pilot
All taxes, fees, and charges
Alpine landing (approx. 10 minutes)
Scenic 25-minute helicopter flight
Comfort Seat (required for passengers 120kg / 265lbs+)
Front seat upgrade requests (subject to availability)
Options
Glacier Explorer - 1 Glacier with Snow Landing - 25min
Reviews
224 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An unforgettable experience — absolutely breathtaking
anikasH7371IW,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My Franz Josef Glacier helicopter flight with landing was nothing short of amazing. From the moment we lifted off, the views were incredible — soaring over rugged peaks, deep valleys, and the shimmering glacier felt like stepping into another world. The landing itself was a real highlight. Standing on the glacier, surrounded by pure white ice and dramatic mountain scenery, was an experience I’ll never forget. It felt peaceful, surreal, and completely awe‑inspiring. The whole trip was smooth, well organised, and felt really safe. The team were friendly and professional, and the pilot shared great insights about the area, which made the experience even more special. If you’re visiting Franz Josef, this is an absolute must‑do. It was one of the standout moments of my trip.
Fabulous flight around the highest mountains in New Zealand and walking in a glacier
annietB8806TL,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely brilliant experience from start to finish. We were due to fly at 9:30 but were asked if we could come earlier as the weather forecast was better for earlier in the day. The safety briefing was appropriate for the activity. Mark, our pilot, was friendly, calm and extremely knowledgeable. The commentary he gave us as we flew around the mountains and glaciers was great. It was a once in a lifetime activity that we will remember for a very long time. Would highly recommend to anyone who is in the area. Thank you, we loved it!
Amazing Trip
stevengthomps,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00All staff were so helpful and made sure we got our trip done on the day booked when low cloud prevented us going to the original glacier. Pilot was so good and made sure we got an amazing experience
An absolutely amazing...
Linda B,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00An absolutely amazing experience, loved it 😊 Weather was perfect & views incredible…got some fab photos….thank you ❄️
Our helicopter pilot Mike...
Debra T,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our helicopter pilot Mike was a very experienced guy. The flight was smooth and we got really close to the glaciers.
Expensive, but worth the experience
Andrea V,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Patience is required if the weather does not really want to play along. Unfortunately, as with us, the cloud cover over the glacier can close quickly in minutes. Then it's time to wait, because the helicopters only start with sufficiently clear visibility. Therefore, you should always allow a little more time, because the employees know the weather phenomena over the glacier very well and can assess the situation. With us it took 45min until we could fly again and it was an unforgettable experience.
Perfect flight
Y7086LWtimothya,Feb 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great flight, friendly pilot, and staff, first flight for one of us, weather was with us, would recommend to everyone. It was an experience we are glad we took!!!
Just loved it!
Deborah S,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fabulous experience, well organised! We did have perfect weather though. Pilot was lovely and informative too.
Amazing place
Rex355,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an amazing experience James the pilot was spot on and was able to pass on so much information. This is something I would love to repeat.
A great experience!
paulienp2026,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a very good flight with a nice landing in the snow. We got enough time to take pictures there. We had a very friendly pilot. She explained during the flight and also offered to take pictures. It was a great experience!
From NZ$385.00
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