Experience breathtaking aerial views of ice and mountains with a helicopter tour and skydiving combo in New Zealand’s Southern Alps—an adventure that combines awe-inspiring scenery and adrenaline rushes. Read on to discover why this trip is unforgettable.
Experience breathtaking aerial views of ice and mountains with a helicopter tour and skydiving combo in New Zealand’s Southern Alps—an adventure that combines awe-inspiring scenery and adrenaline rushes. Read on to discover why this trip is unforgettable.
Book with INFLITE - West Coast
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by INFLITE - West Coast · Franz Josef / Waiau, West Coast
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, the West Coast region offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet—towering peaks, shimmering glaciers, and lush rainforests that weave into the landscape. INFLITE elevates this natural drama with a once-in-a-lifetime combo adventure: a helicopter tour to the stunning Tasman Glacier followed by a skydiving experience that will leave you breathless. Starting with a scenic helicopter flight, you'll soar over rugged alpine terrain, descending onto the icy expanse of the Tasman Glacier—the largest in New Zealand and a natural wonder carved over thousands of years. The view from above reveals sprawling ice fields, jagged ice formations, and expansive mountain vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Then, for those craving an adrenaline rush, the jump from 13,000 feet provides a panoramic freefall over the Southern Alps, offering a unique perspective of this pristine wilderness. The tandem skydive is guided by experienced instructors who ensure safety while amplifying the thrill. This adventure pairing is perfect for thrill-seekers and scenery lovers alike, blending high-altitude flight with an edge-of-your-seat descent through crisp mountain air. INFLITE's West Coast base is positioned conveniently to access iconic sites and offers a curated experience crafted for both adventure veterans and first-timers seeking a safe yet breathtaking adventure. Besides the adrenaline, participants receive insights into the area's geological features and the glacier’s history, making every moment both exciting and educational. Whether you're looking to tick off a bucket list or chase spectacular vistas, this combo adventure stands out as one of New Zealand’s most remarkable outdoor activities. The region’s pristine environment and this unique blend of flight and freefall make it a premier destination for adventure travelers. Be sure to book in advance, as slots fill quickly in the peak season, and prepare for a day that will redefine your idea of thrill and natural beauty.
challenging.
4–6 hours.
Participants should have average fitness and be comfortable with heights and physical activity.
Yes, participants typically must be at least 16 years old and meet weight restrictions for safety reasons. Check with INFLITE for specific guidelines.
Wear layered clothing, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and avoid loose items. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen for comfort.
All activities are led by experienced professionals with safety as the top priority. Risks are minimized with thorough briefings and proper equipment.
It's recommended to discuss your concerns with the staff beforehand. Some may still enjoy the experience with proper guidance.
Plan for approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on the number of participants and weather conditions.
Altitude sickness is rare at these heights but inform the staff if you feel unwell at any point.
The Tasman Glacier was formed during the last Ice Age, over 20,000 years ago, and is a key feature of New Zealand’s glacial landscape.
INFLITE prioritizes environmentally sustainable practices, including minimizing noise and respecting the glacier and surrounding ecosystems.
INFLITE - West Coast operates from Franz Josef / Waiau on New Zealand’s West Coast and offers helicopter sightseeing, glacier landings, alpine picnics and tandem skydives across the Southern Alps. The business provides a range of guided aerial experiences that showcase Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman Glaciers, as well as views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and surrounding peaks. INFLITE’s program includes 30-minute scenic flights such as the Tasman Experience, extended circuits like the Franz Josef, Fox & Tasman Glaciers Grand Circle, and private glacier landings for picnic experiences on the Tasman Glacier. For adrenaline seekers, INFLITE offers tandem skydives at multiple altitudes — options include 10,000ft, 13,000ft, 16,500ft and 18,000ft — plus combo packages that pair a helicopter glacier landing with a 13,000ft skydive. All operations are based in Franz Josef / Waiau and focus on delivering aerial sightseeing and tandem skydive experiences in the Westland and Aoraki/Mount Cook regions. Trip itineraries cover glacier overflights, ice landings, and scenic approaches that reveal lakes, rainforests and alpine terrain. Specific durations and freefall times vary by jump altitude (for example, the 13,000ft skydive includes about a 45-second freefall and the 18,000ft option includes about an 85-second freefall). Prospective guests should review official trip listings for current availability, altitude options, and booking details.
Book with INFLITE - West Coast