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Witness the stunning Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers from above with a breathtaking helicopter flight. Perfect for photography and adventure seekers alike, this tour offers a new perspective on New Zealand’s icy giants.
Witness the stunning Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers from above with a breathtaking helicopter flight. Perfect for photography and adventure seekers alike, this tour offers a new perspective on New Zealand’s icy giants.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Glacier Country Helicopters · Franz Josef / Waiau, West Coast
easy.
16-20 minutes.
Minimal; suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Children must be at least 2 years old and capable of sitting in a seat, but check with the operator for specific age or weight restrictions.
Dress in layered clothing suitable for outdoor weather, and bring a jacket if needed due to altitude changes.
Clear weather provides the best views; poor weather may limit visibility, so check the forecast prior to booking.
Yes, Glacier Country Helicopters maintains strict safety standards and experienced pilots handle all flights.
Food and drinks are generally not allowed on the helicopter, but check with the operator for specific policies.
Yes, due to high demand, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.
The glaciers have been a key feature for centuries, with the area once serving as a hub for early mountaineers exploring the Southern Alps.
The glaciers are sensitive to climate change; sustainable tourism practices help preserve this pristine environment for future generations.
Glacier Country Helicopters is a Franz Josef, West Coast based helicopter operator offering scenic glacier flights, private transfers, and charter services across New Zealand's Southern Alps. The company specialises in point-to-point transfers such as Mount Cook to Franz Josef, Wanaka to Franz Josef, Christchurch to Franz Josef, Greymouth to Franz Josef, and Queenstown / Milford Sounds to Franz Josef, with published flight durations including 30 minutes, one hour and 1.5 hours depending on route. In addition to private transfers, Glacier Country Helicopters operates a range of scenic experiences over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers including the Twin Glacier overflight (16–20 minutes), Glacier Explorer (25 minutes), Ultimate Discovery (45 minutes), and Mt Cook Supreme (60 minutes) with options that include snow or alpine landings. The operator also lists dedicated private charter options, proposal flights, shuttle links between Franz Josef and nearby airports such as Hokitika and Greymouth, and special packages like the Helicopter & Hummers – Fly & Dine Package. Departure points referenced in trip descriptions include Mount Cook Airfield, Wanaka Airport, Christchurch Garden City Heliport and local Glacier Country Helicopters offices at Franz Josef. All trip summaries describe private or small-group helicopter operations tailored to transfers or scenic sightseeing. Glacier Country Helicopters provides a range of flight lengths and private charter options to suit traveler itineraries across the West Coast and Southern Alps.
Book with Glacier Country Helicopters