50-Minute Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn Flight, Queenstown
Overview
Available languages
50 minutes
Mobile ticket
Take off from Queenstown on an unforgettable journey through some of the South Island’s most spectacular alpine landscapes. Soar above the rugged cliffs of Skippers Canyon and the braided rivers of the Rees Valley before venturing deep into Mt Aspiring National Park.
Marvel at dramatic glaciers, impressive ice falls and hidden alpine lakes before continuing to the awe-inspiring Earnslaw Burn. Here, a unique ‘hanging’ glacier feeds countless waterfalls that tumble into the valley below – an otherworldly scene made famous in The Lord of the Rings.
Your adventure includes an exhilarating glacier*, where you’ll step out into untouched wilderness to capture once-in-a-lifetime photos surrounded by towering peaks and pristine ice.
This remarkable flight offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, cinematic views, and thrilling alpine adventure. A true highlight of any Queenstown visit.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Infants will be charged at the child rate (0-3 years old sit on adults lap)
Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers must supply accurate weights upon booking.
What To Expect
Mount Aspiring National Park
Enjoy a landing on top of a snowy glacier .
Options
50-Minute Glacier Explorer Flight from Queenstown
Pickup included
Glacier Explorer - Early Bird
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Landing and facility fees
Headsets to hear the pilot clearly
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Pickup points
QT Queenstown
38-54 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown Queenstown New Zealand
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Corner Earl Street and Marine Parade, Queenstown New Zealand
Swiss-belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
110 Frankton Road Queenstown New Zealand
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
32 Frankton Road, Queenstown New Zealand
Kamana Lakehouse
139 Fernhill Road Queenstown New Zealand
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
91 Fernhill Rd Queenstown New Zealand
Mercure Queenstown Resort
21 Sainsbury Road, Fernhill Queenstown New Zealand
The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments and Lakeside Residences
377 Frankton Road, Lake Wakatipu Queenstown New Zealand
Crowne Plaza Queenstown By IHG
93 Beach Street, Queenstown New Zealand
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
79 Peninsula Road Kawarau Falls New Zealand
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
154 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The Glacier Explorer &...
Sharon H,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn 🚁❄️⛰️ Absolutely amazing! We got so close to the snow-covered cliffs, seeing the beautiful blue colours and cracks in the glacier up close — just spectacular. We had an amazing pilot too, which made the experience even better. So grateful for the wonderful memories made 🩵❄️🚁
A flight of wonder & excitment
P76IAbrianm,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00As soon as we arrived in Queenstown, we decided to look for a helicopter experience to see this magnificent location from the air. Our hotel concierge helped us decide which company to use & helped us to make the booking. It was easy & before we knew it, we were booked on a flight early the next morning. You have to check before flight to make sure weather is good to go. Our flight had to be cancelled but the hotel concierge & the operator worked with us to reschedule our flight a little later that day. As we had also booked a cruise in the afternoon, they made sure we made it to that also. Collected from the hotel & later dropped back where our cruise was departing from in town. From the drivers who collected us & the pilot & staff thank you. This is the way to see Queenstown & the surrounding mountains & glacier. A fantastic flight with plenty of photo opportunities. A great experience would we do it again yes. Was it worth the money yes.
a dream filled with emotions
franktG8261OW,Apr 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Just amazing! The weather was not there but the pilot found an entrance to pass over the clouds and there, it was magical...
Beautiful Flight. Awesome views and the glacier landing was magical. Would fly again. It was like floating on a cloud!
Marilyn D,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Would fly again. It was like floating on a cloud with awesome views and the glacier landing was magical. Felt safe and would fly with them again.
Wonderful
oldnewbiker,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic.The pilot was well informed and a nice man to boot
Breathtaking experience of glacial landscapes and exciting heli ride
Catherine J,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We are a 66 year old couple and travelled with 2 adult daughters and one of their partners. The experience from reception to landing was great. All staff so helpful. Our pilot Steve was personable friendly and made me feel safe and informed. He made a point of explaining bumps were nothing to be concerned and did a gentle smooth landing on the snow. It was a bit slippery for me but he was aware and reassuring of my safety. He obliged taking some fantastic video and photos for us. And the glacier and mountains ... a..maz..ing! Exceeded expectations. Highly recommend
Spectacular, Once in a Lifetime Experience
Lauren M,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00My boyfriend and I both agreed that this was the highlight of our New Zealand trip, which is saying something because everything we did was incredible. I've never ridden in a helicopter before and I was shocked at how smooth it was. Our pilot was absolutely delightful and gave us tons of super interesting info about the area. Bonus points because, as a plus size person, I often am unable to do activities because of weight restrictions, but Glacier Explorer was so accommodating, and does not have a weight limit per person, so I didn't have to worry at all! Anyway, the scenery was spectacular. Natural beauty unlike anything I've ever seen before. It brought me to tears if I'm being honest. Landing on the glacier was also unreal. We were able to walk around within a safe distance and marvel at our surroundings. I promise you, this is worth the money 10 times over.
Absolutely Remarkable!
Cindy W,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Had an experience of a lifetime with our pilot Jeremy. He gave us an amazing view of the mountains and glacier. He shared highlights and connected personally with all 5 attendees on our flight. Don’t miss this! We were hesitant- but decided to DO IT! And so glad we did! Also Cody was so great - he picked us up- PLUS Grace took care of us as we had a lost item and she recovered it for us. Thanks to the entire team for making it so special!
Thrilling and spectacular
Howard M,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience is thrilling and spectacular. The helicopter gets you up close the glaciers then you set foot on one. The ice is sparkling. The views are breathtaking.
Picked up from hotel and...
Gwen H,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Picked up from hotel and returned. Registration easy, Assisted getting into helicopter. Pilot very helpful and explained everything.
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