Adventure Collective
Helicopter Scenic Flight and Snow Landing at Fox Glacier, New Zealand - Fox Glacier

Helicopter Scenic Flight and Snow Landing at Fox Glacier, New Zealand

Fox Glacier / Waiaueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

35 minutes

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and abilities

Overview

Soar above the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers on a thrilling helicopter tour that lands on the snow, revealing the striking valleys carved by ancient ice. Explore New Zealand’s West Coast like never before with this unforgettable aerial adventure.

Franz Josef / Waiau, West Coast

Fox Glacier Twin Glacier

All ages • Great for couples! • Land on the snow and view the path the glacier has carved below you!

Airplane

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About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of a scenic helicopter flight over the stunning Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Soar above charming townships and the majestic Southern Alps, then land on the snow to witness the breathtaking valleys carved by the glaciers. This unforgettable adventure showcases the natural beauty of New Zealand's West Coast.

Soar above the breathtaking West Coast landscapes and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

Highlights

  • Set off on your flight and fly over both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

  • Soar above the townships and follow the ice flow to admire the views of the Southern Alps.

  • Land on the snow and view the path the glacier has carved below you.

Duration

30 minute total trip duration including snow landing.

Please allow approximately 1 hour for check-in, safety briefing and your flight.

About

Depart from Fox Glacier and take a scenic flight over the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. You'll soar over the township before following the ice flow up to the upper reaches. Upon landing on the snow at the head of one of the glaciers, you'll be able to survey the path that the glacier has carved below you, creating deep valleys. This scenic flight offers a fantastic opportunity to explore these magnificent natural wonders of the West Coast.

What's Included

  • Scenic helicopter flight.
  • Snow landing atop the glacier.
  • Informative pilot commentary.

More Info

Get ready! Here’s what you should know

Departure Locations Departs and returns from The Helicopter Line Base OR Glacier Helicopters Base situated on the Main Road (State Highway 6), Fox Glacier, 7859. These meeting points are approx. 30m apart, we will reach out to you the day before with the exact meeting point!

Departure Times and Check In Please call 0800 807 767, 24-hours prior to departure to reconfirm your booking.

Weather check – due to very changeable weather conditions your weather check is at the same time as check-in.

Check-in closes 30 minutes prior to departure time.

Weather Your flight is subject to favourable weather conditions; if cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund. We recommend booking your flights early in your trip with flexibility for weather changes. We don’t want you to miss out.

What To Bring

  • Warm clothing.
  • Sturdy covered shoes.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen.
  • Your phone/camera.

Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be received within 48-hours of booking, subject to availability.
  • Flights, landings and routes may vary due to weather and the pilot’s discretion. Flight times are approximate and include your landing.
  • Minimum passenger numbers apply for flights. Bookings will be coordinated to achieve this where possible.
  • Prices include concession fees contributing toward conservation and sustainability management.
  • Drones, iPads, bags and selfie sticks are not allowed on board for safety.
  • We recommend booking your flights early in your trip with flexibility for weather changes. We don’t want you to miss out.

Adventure Tips

Dress in warm layers

Bring a warm jacket and sturdy shoes to stay comfortable during cold snow landings.

Protect your camera gear

Secure your camera with a strap to keep it safe during the flight and landing.

Check weather flexibility

Be prepared for weather changes; flights may be rescheduled due to conditions.

Listen to pilot briefing

Pay close attention to safety instructions during check-in for a secure experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • New Zealand Kea parrots, known for their intelligence and curiosity.
  • Fantails flitting in forested areas near the glaciers.

History

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are some of the fastest moving glaciers globally, deeply influencing Maori legends and local tourism since the mid-1800s.

Conservation

All helicopter flights include concession fees supporting conservation efforts, helping protect the unique alpine ecosystem and reduce environmental impact.

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Adventure Hotspots in Fox Glacier

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm jacket

Essential

Keeps you comfortable during chilly snow landings on the glacier.

Sturdy shoes

Essential

Provides stability for walking on uneven snow and snow ice.

Sunglasses

Essential

Protects your eyes from snow glare and bright sunlight during flight.

Camera with strap

Essential

Allows you to capture stunning aerial views safely.