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Combine a helicopter snowfield landing on the Franz Josef Glacier with a 13,000ft tandem skydive for a sky-to-ice adrenaline day. Expect glacier views, rainforest-lined valleys, and weather-dependent operations that prioritize safety.
Combine a helicopter snowfield landing on the Franz Josef Glacier with a 13,000ft tandem skydive for a sky-to-ice adrenaline day. Expect glacier views, rainforest-lined valleys, and weather-dependent operations that prioritize safety.
You step onto the frost-hushed rim of the Southern Alps and the air feels like an amp—thin, sharp, electric. A helicopter’s rotors drum overhead as the pilot eases onto a white field carved by ice, then you swap the hush of the glacier for the rush of freefall: a tandem jump from 13,000ft with alpine peaks sliding beneath you like a living map.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Inflite Franz & Fox Helicopters · Franz Josef, West Coast
You step onto the frost-hushed rim of the Southern Alps and the air feels like an amp—thin, sharp, electric. A helicopter’s rotors drum overhead as the pilot eases onto a white field carved by ice, then you swap the hush of the glacier for the rush of freefall: a tandem jump from 13,000ft with alpine peaks sliding beneath you like a living map.
This combo in the Franz Josef region stitches together two classic Kiwi experiences. The helicopter delivers up-close views of Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, the crevassed skin of ancient ice shaped by tectonics and climate. From the air you’ll cross rainforests that cling to steep valley sides, waterfalls that dare to unmake cliffs, and the Tasman Sea glittering beyond the ranges. The area carries both Māori and European layers of history — local iwi have long stories about the glaciers and early European explorers named many features for foreign royalty.
Practically speaking, expect a full-service operation: safety briefings, fitted harnesses, and a snowfield landing of up to ten minutes (weather dependent), followed by a separate skydive with an experienced tandem instructor. Weather is the arbiter here — flights cancel in poor conditions. Bring layered, windproof clothing, sturdy shoes for the glacier, and sunglasses. Hydrate and eat a light meal before the jump; if you’re doubtful about motion sickness or weight limits, check ahead.
This is peak-altitude access to New Zealand’s wild heart — part scenic flight, part adrenaline test, entirely dependent on weather and careful planning.
moderate.
30 minutes–2 hours.
Minimal general fitness required: able to stand, follow instructions, and move on uneven snow for short periods.
Age and weight limits vary by operator—typical minimum age is 16 with parental consent, and maximum tandem weight is often around 100–110 kg (220–240 lbs); check with the provider when booking.
Most operators offer rebooking or a refund if cancellations are made within their policy window; bring flexible travel plans and allow buffer days.
Meet at the Skydive Franz/INFLITE Franz and Fox Helicopters base in Franz Josef; total booking windows range from about 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on manifest and weather.
No prior experience is needed—tandem instructors and helicopter crews handle technical aspects, though you must follow safety briefings and any medical/weight restrictions.
The Franz Josef area has deep Māori significance (the glacier is associated with Hine Hukatere) and was later named by European explorers; glaciers here have been shaped by tectonics and long-term climate shifts.
Glaciers in the region are retreating due to climate change; operators emphasize low-impact landings and staying on marked approaches to protect fragile moraine and alpine flora.
Inflite Franz & Fox Helicopters operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step onto the frost-hushed rim of the Southern Alps and the air feels like an amp—thin, sharp, electric. A helicopter’s rotors drum overhead as the pilot eases onto a white field carved by ice, then you swap the hush of the glacier for the rush of freefall: a tandem jump from 13,000ft with alpine peaks sliding beneath you like a living map.
You step onto the frost-hushed rim of the Southern Alps and the air feels like an amp—thin, sharp, electric. A helicopter’s rotors drum overhead as the pilot eases onto a white field carved by ice, then you swap the hush of the glacier for the rush of freefall: a tandem jump from 13,000ft with alpine peaks sliding beneath you like a living map.
This combo in the Franz Josef region stitches together two classic Kiwi experiences. The helicopter delivers up-close views of Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, the crevassed skin of ancient ice shaped by tectonics and climate. From the air you’ll cross rainforests that cling to steep valley sides, waterfalls that dare to unmake cliffs, and the Tasman Sea glittering beyond the ranges. The area carries both Māori and European layers of history — local iwi have long stories about the glaciers and early European explorers named many features for foreign royalty.
Practically speaking, expect a full-service operation: safety briefings, fitted harnesses, and a snowfield landing of up to ten minutes (weather dependent), followed by a separate skydive with an experienced tandem instructor. Weather is the arbiter here — flights cancel in poor conditions. Bring layered, windproof clothing, sturdy shoes for the glacier, and sunglasses. Hydrate and eat a light meal before the jump; if you’re doubtful about motion sickness or weight limits, check ahead.
This is peak-altitude access to New Zealand’s wild heart — part scenic flight, part adrenaline test, entirely dependent on weather and careful planning.