50 minutes
Mobile ticket
Welcome you to discover the extraordinary Shackleton Glacier and the fascinating story of its namesake's Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition.
This 50-minute flight includes:
- Franz Josef, Tasman and Shackleton Glaciers
- Mount Cook & Mount Tasman
- Fly through the Southern Alps where the ""Lighting of The Beacons"" was filmed for Lord of the Rings
- 15-minute snow landing included
- Complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey available to those who want to sample it with the glacial ice
Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy own the company and are both commercial pilots.
If you wish to book a Comfort Seat or request a Front Seat / Executive Helicopter Upgrade, please contact us at least 24hours in advance of your flight.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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 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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
All Fees and Taxes
Comfort Seat (compulsory for passengers 120kg & over)
Front Seat / Executive Helicopter Upgrade Request
Franz Josef Glacier
Fly over the Franz Josef Glacier
Tasman Glacier
Fly over the Tasman Glacier
9 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
david l,
Feb 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
Whisked into a chopper and up into the sky before you know it. Our pilot was pretty quiet until we got onto the glacier then he was chatty. The whiskey was a little weak, but it's blended so I guess that's normal. It was a 50th birthday that I won't forget
danieldH1723TA,
May 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
The team went out of there way to make this happen. Having a whiskey on the snow was incredible. Wouldn't book with anyone else. Dion did an amazing job and was very informative.
Danny D,
May 3, 2024
- Review from Viator
How great the staff were. It was brilliant from start to finish. Dion our pilot was just amazing. Would go again in a heart beat. The company is brilliant. Don't book anyone else.
Wolfgang B,
Feb 27, 2024
- Review from Viator
Impressive experience. The flight was pleasant, the pilot Gus professional. The glacier landing was like a breece of freish air.
Lori C,
Feb 20, 2024
- Review from Viator
Great service. Such an amazing way to see the glaciers and the extreme mountains. The pilot was wonderful and the flight fantastic.
robmK8190QS,
May 2, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic experience. Friendly and relaxed staff, ground crew and pilot. Booking was easy and the flight and landing on the glacier were experiences never to be forgot. Highly recommended.

OnAir65262635894,
Apr 15, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
We were lucky enough to be the first group to land on the glacier that day. It was an incredible experience! Can’t recommend the team highly enough from the front desk staff to the pilot to the minibus driver, they were all so friendly, helpful and professional.
852angiet,
Apr 3, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
Professional company, very good communication about options, wheatherconditions and alternative times. Great explanation during the flight. Fully recommend this company. Price is fair. I did compare with others.



18caitlinp,
Dec 19, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
One of the highlights of our trip to the South Island! Glacier Country Helicopters was amazing! Our original flight was cancelled due to weather and they easily booked us on a flight the next day. We took our ten month old on the trip and they were so accommodating and friendly. This is an experience you do not want to miss.
Operated by Glacier Country Helicopters