Ascend over the Mackenzie Basin and land on the Tasman Glacier during a 40-minute helicopter flight from Aoraki / Mount Cook. Expect dramatic icefalls, expansive views of the Southern Alps, and an up-close glacier landing with pilot commentary.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push past the low scrub of the Mackenzie Basin and the helicopter bites into thin alpine air; below, the Tasman Glacier threads like a silver river carved through steep grey rock. The rotor’s thrum becomes part of the landscape as the pilot banks toward the Hochstetter Icefall and the “Cloud Piercer” of Aoraki / Mount Cook rises, sharp and raw, into a cold blue.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
40 minutes (plus 30–60 minutes total with transfers)
Fitness Level
No special fitness required beyond the ability to step in/out of the helicopter and handle short, uneven glacier footing.
Wildlife
History
Aoraki / Mount Cook holds deep cultural significance to Ngāi Tahu; European alpinism and scientific surveys in the 19th–20th centuries mapped its glaciers and routes.
Conservation
The area is part of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area; follow landing-site guidelines to limit disturbance and pack out all waste.
Reserve your spot on the Glacier Discoverer 40 minute Helicopter flight from Mount Cook today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check weather and timing
Flights are weather-sensitive; call the operator one hour before departure and allow buffer days in your itinerary.
Declare accurate weights
Operators require passenger weights for balance; provide correct information at booking to avoid last-minute changes.
Dress in layers with sun protection
Alpine sun and wind combine on the glacier — pack insulated layers, gloves, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Protect camera gear from glare
Bring a lens cloth and polarizer to manage bright, reflective snow and heli rotor wash.
Warm, windproof jacket
Blocks alpine wind during the landing and while standing on the glacier.
all
Sturdy ankle-support boots
Provide traction and protection on uneven snow and moraine during the short landing stop.
all
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reduces glare from snow and high-altitude sun exposure.
all
Small daypack
Carries layers, water, and camera gear during transfers and any short walks at the landing site.
all