Discover the majestic Tasman Glacier from above with a thrilling helicopter flight and enjoy a private picnic on the ice. This unforgettable adventure combines aerial views with a unique landing experience, making it a highlight of New Zealand’s South Island.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required for getting in and out of the helicopter and walking on ice.
Wildlife
History
The Tasman Glacier has been a focal point for scientific research since the early 20th century, revealing insights into climate change and glacial retreat.
Conservation
INFLITE adheres to strict environmental guidelines, ensuring minimal impact on the glacier and surrounding ecosystems while promoting awareness about glacier preservation.
INFLITE - West Coast
Discover the majestic Tasman Glacier from above with a thrilling helicopter flight and enjoy a private picnic on the ice. This unforgettable adventure combines aerial views with a unique landing experience, making it a highlight of New Zealand’s South Island.
INFLITE - West Coast operates from Franz Josef / Waiau on New Zealand’s West Coast and offers helicopter sightseeing, glacier landings, alpine picnics and tandem skydives across the Southern Alps. The business provides a range of guided aerial experiences that showcase Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman Glaciers, as well as views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and surrounding peaks.
INFLITE’s program includes 30-minute scenic flights such as the Tasman Experience, extended circuits like the Franz Josef, Fox & Tasman Glaciers Grand Circle, and private glacier landings for picnic experiences on the Tasman Glacier. For adrenaline seekers, INFLITE offers tandem skydives at multiple altitudes — options include 10,000ft, 13,000ft, 16,500ft and 18,000ft — plus combo packages that pair a helicopter glacier landing with a 13,000ft skydive.
All operations are based in Franz Josef / Waiau and focus on delivering aerial sightseeing and tandem skydive experiences in the Westland and Aoraki/Mount Cook regions. Trip itineraries cover glacier overflights, ice landings, and scenic approaches that reveal lakes, rainforests and alpine terrain. Specific durations and freefall times vary by jump altitude (for example, the 13,000ft skydive includes about a 45-second freefall and the 18,000ft option includes about an 85-second freefall). Prospective guests should review official trip listings for current availability, altitude options, and booking details.
Location
Franz Josef / Waiau
Based on New Zealand’s West Coast
Glacier Landings
Tasman Glacier
Private glacier landings and picnics
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Listed travel experiences
Skydiving Altitudes
10,000–18,000 ft
Multiple tandem jump options
Select a Tasman Glacier picnic, Grand Circle scenic flight, or a 13,000–18,000ft tandem skydive — check availability and book online to secure a West Coast adventure.
Dress for the weather
Wear layered clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for cold conditions and uneven terrain.
Book in advance
This popular tour fills quickly, so reserve your spot early to secure your preferred date.
Bring your camera
Capture the stunning glacier scenery from the air and on the ice with a good-quality camera.
Follow safety instructions
Listen carefully to the guides' safety briefings and stay within designated areas during landing.
Warm layers
Keep comfortable during the helicopter ride and on the glacier with insulated clothing.
winter
Sturdy hiking boots
Footwear with good grip is recommended for walking on the icy terrain.
Camera or smartphone
Capture breathtaking images of the glacier and surrounding landscapes.
Sun protection
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect against UV exposure at high altitudes.
summer