Glacier Country Helicopters: Franz Josef Glacier Flight
Difficulty
easy
Duration
25 minutes
Fitness Level
No significant physical fitness needed; suitable for most ages and abilities
Overview
Take to the skies above Franz Josef Glacier on a private 25-minute helicopter flight with Glacier Country Helicopters. Experience stunning alpine views and a rare snow landing for a truly unique perspective.
Glacier Explorer - 25 minutes - Private Charter
Priced per group • Fly over the Franz Josef Glacier! • Snow Landing
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About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Franz Josef Glacier and the Southern Alps on a private 25-minute helicopter flight. Enjoy unique photo opportunities and a thrilling 10-minute snow landing, all while savoring the comfort and privacy of your own tour. This unforgettable adventure promises stunning views and memorable moments.
With the privacy and comfort of a private tour, you have the freedom to savor every moment and capture unforgettable photographs of the glaciers from unique angles.
What Will I See
This 25-minute flight includes
- Franz Josef Glacier
- Southern Alps
- Mt Ellie de Beaumount
- An included 10-minute snow landing
Passenger weights must be within the weight & balance requirements for the helicopter. Please ensure you have given accurate weights at the time of booking to avoid rescheduling.
This 25minute flight may not have snow on its landing site all year around so may become an alpine landing (no snow) and has the highest rate of cancellation as it only has one flight route & snow landing site so no back up options if its route is affected unlike the longer flights which have multiple options.
For full terms & conditions please see the 'Health & Safety" tab at the top of the page
Adventure Tips
Confirm Passenger Weights Before Booking
Accurate passenger weights are essential for helicopter balance and safety—ensure you provide this information during booking to avoid flight rescheduling.
Wear Warm, Layered Clothing
Temperatures can be much colder on the glacier and during the snow landing; layering helps keep you comfortable throughout the flight.
Charge Your Camera Batteries
This flight offers unique photo opportunities; have your devices ready to capture glacier crevasses and sweeping mountain vistas.
Be Prepared for Weather-Related Changes
Due to the area’s changeable alpine weather, flights—and especially snow landings—may be canceled or modified at short notice.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kea parrots, known for their curious nature around alpine regions.
- New Zealand fantail, a small bird often seen flitting among the forest edges.
History
The Franz Josef Glacier carries significance in Māori culture and has been a popular mountaineering site since early European exploration in the late 19th century.
Conservation
Glacier Country Helicopters operates with attention to minimizing environmental impact, respecting the fragile alpine ecosystems and local wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Christchurch
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable against cold alpine winds during flight and snow landing.
winter specific
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare off ice and snow during flight and landing.
Camera or Smartphone with Extra Battery
Essential for capturing rare aerial and landing shots of the glacier and mountains.
Sturdy Shoes or Boots
Provides secure footing on snow or alpine terrain during the landing portion.