easy
50 minutes
No special fitness required; minimal physical exertion as this is a helicopter flight with a brief snow landing.
Take to the skies with Southern Lakes Helicopters on the Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate—an intense 50-minute flight featuring summit circles, glacier snow landings, and breathtaking views of New Zealand’s South Island.
50 minutes • Our Signature Flight • Booking Is Essential!
50 minutes
This is it! – if you have dreamt of truly experiencing the ultimate helicopter tour of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, then this signature helicopter flight will tick every box.
This glacier helicopter tour is the ultimate way to experience and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Mt Cook maunga (mountains).
You will experience a snow landing high up on the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier and stand amongst the “natural silence” of this very special place. Feel as free as a bird as you gaze across the horizon and catch views of the incredible West Coast and wild Tasman Sea.
Your last stop is the flight over the carved icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake on your return flight before touching base again at our Southern Lakes Helicopters HQ.
In 50 minutes, you will have experienced the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park at its finest. Life really doesn’t get any better than this!
• Sunglasses • Closed/covered shoes • Warm clothing - it's usually cooler on the mountain tops so wear a couple of layers • Camera for those Instagram worthy shots but please no drones or selfie sticks • A big smile!
The weather we experience in Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park can change quickly, therefore if flying conditions are not suitable, we may have to reschedule or cancel your flight. We will check weather conditions the day before your flight and contact you if we have any concerns. Rest assured that tours booked directly with us are fully refundable if there is a cancellation due to the weather.
• All prices listed are Share with Others. If you would prefer to book an exclusive private flight, please let us know at the time of booking and we will confirm the cost with you. • Please note that all flights are subject to change and weather conditions. We reserve the right to cancel, reschedule, or refund your booking if the minimum number of participants is not met. We require a minimum of 3 passenger fares for Aoraki / Mt Cook flights
Temperatures can drop dramatically at altitude; bring warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable during the snow landing.
Glare from snow and ice is strong—sunglasses protect your eyes, and a camera will capture unforgettable alpine vistas.
Plan to arrive at Mount Cook Airport ahead of time for safety and flight briefings before takeoff.
Flight schedules depend heavily on weather; be prepared for last-minute changes or rescheduling by the operator.
The Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park was established in 1953, centered around honoring Māori heritage tied to the mountain Aoraki.
Southern Lakes Helicopters operates with a strong commitment to minimizing their environmental footprint, respecting the fragile alpine ecosystem through regulated flight paths and landings.
Protects against cold temperatures at altitude and during glacier landing.
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Reduces glare from snow, ice, and bright skies for comfort and visibility.
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Needed for safe footing on the glacier and airport grounds.
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Captures the stunning alpine scenery and unique snow landing moments.
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