1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days.
On our Ultimate Discovery flight you'll see the three "big" glaciers. You'll fly over the Franz Josef, Fox & Tasman Glaciers and fly into the Southern Alps to see Mount Cook and enjoy the included 10-15 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 45 minutes.
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.
Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.
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).
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Experienced and professional pilot
Safety briefing
All fees, GST, and taxes
45-minute scenic helicopter flight with snow landing included
Comfort Seat (required for passengers 120kg/265lbs & over; optional for extra space)
Front Seat Upgrade (must request at least 24 hours in advance & confirmation at check in)
Hotel pickup and drop-off (check-in at 10 Main Road, Franz Josef)
Food and drinks
Franz Josef Glacier
The Ultimate Discovery flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman Glaciers.
Fox Glacier
The Ultimate Discovery flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman Glaciers.
106 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Paul S,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
Excellent provider- proactive planning, re weather,to give us the best experience. Super pilot explaining and guiding our flight, glacier landing and safe return. Absolutely perfect. Highly recommend.
Alexander C,
Sep 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
This was an exceptional experience and I would highly recommend. The pilot we had gave a great commentary of the landscape. Must do!!
Claire H,
Sep 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We felt very safe, the entire team were friendly and knew how to make this an awesome trip. Would highly recommend to anyone.
kim y,
Sep 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
Definitely worth doing. Unfortunately because of weather constraints our trip was cut short and we didn't get to land on any glaciers. The operator has assured us a refund and we're waiting for the process to be finalised. The whole experience was professionally handled and safety was their main concern.
jakerA9861RY,
Aug 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Amazing. You’re simply missing out if you’re not doing this while visiting NZ. Staff were amazing and the scenery was beautiful. Thank you!
Irina V,
Jul 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
unforgettable experience! friendly and knowledgeable pilot, smooth helicopter ride, astonishing views, unbelievable scenery



W5387TBstevem,
Apr 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great trip with pilot Gus Views were superb and extra info from Gus was good Snow landing was a great experience and opportunity to get photos up on top of the mountains
W5387TBstevem,
Apr 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A great trip - it was amazing seeing the glaciers and mountains so close up and from a different perspective. The snow landing and walking around for a few minutes was also great. Gus, our pilot, kept us informed through the trip.
William D,
Apr 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
What an exceptional adventure. Poppy and the gang were top notch , very professional and safety was a priority. Poppy pointed out landmarks during our flight that were eye popping.







Michael C,
Mar 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
Good helicopter ride. Poppy the pilot gave us lots of information. We landed on the Glacier. Enjoyable tour.






Operated by Glacier Country Helicopters