Discover the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty on this small-group 2 hour 15 minute (approx) Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike. Travel by helicopter to the Pinnacles area of the glacier with your guide. Navigate your way through the maze of ice on your moderately difficult hike. Learn of the dramatic environmental changes affecting the glacier and gain insight into the geological forces at play. Group size is limited to 11 to ensure a personalized experience.

A unique kayak adventure, only minutes from Franz Josef Glacier! Set out across Lake Mapourika’s mirror-like water and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Southern Alps and Glaciers. Lake Mapourika was created by the mighty Franz Josef Glacier as it retreated some 14 000 years ago, now it sits sandwiched between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. The glassy water and unbeatable views make it one of the scenic gems of the West Coast. Explore a kiwi sanctuary set amidst some of the oldest untouched rainforest in Westland! This tour lasts up to three hours and is designed to complete your Glacier Country Experience!

Enjoy exclusive access to our private rainforest trail, only accessible by boat! The rainforest trail journeys through a Kiwi Conservation region and some of Westland’s oldest untouched rainforest.

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you’ll generally find one of them out flying most days. On our Glacier Explorer flight you’ll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier and then into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 25 minutes. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.

From sea level rising to the heart of the magnificent Southern Alps, this 20-minute helicopter flight explores the awe-inspiring ice falls of the Franz Josef Glacier. The flight includes a snow landing, an excellent opportunity to really take in the surroundings and breathe the clean alpine air.

Drive a Quad Bike along the ancient glacial pathways of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, carved into the landscape by ice and water over thousands of years. Admire the lush landscape of the dense rainforest and reconnect with Mother Nature.

This eco-tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, providing opportunities for off-track adventures and a profound insight into the intricate workings of the ecosystem. This unforgettable journey unveils the hidden wonders of the Franz Josef Glacier Valley. Meander through ancient native podocarp rainforest, stroll along a pristine glacial-fed river and marvel at the mirror-like reflections of the snow-capped mountains on an ancient kettle lake. Join us for an experience that blends serene natural beauty with educational exploration. Your knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience with fascinating stories and insights about the local history, flora, fauna, glaciology and geology. Wander at your own pace through glacial rivers, streams and native podocarp rainforest, discovering hidden treasures like wild mushrooms and dozens of orchid species. Please note we cannot get close to the terminal face or walk on the glacier due to safety reasons.

The one-hour fixed-wing flight from Queenstown to Franz Josef glacier is certainly spectacular, but the highlight of this trip is the glacier Heli Hike. The experienced guides will take you into a deep part of the glacier via a scenic helicopter flight. The helicopter passes over the deep crevasses of the icefalls and waterfalls to land on the upper ice fall of Franz Josef glacier. From there you’ll be fitted with crampons for the two hours on the ice, exploring caves and seeing the natural, ever-changing wonder of the glacier in the South Island of New Zealand.

Combine a scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier with a 2-hour guided walk on glacial terrain during this exhilarating tour from Franz Josef. Find out why New Zealand’s South Island is famous for its gorgeous landscapes as you follow an experienced guide past ice caves, crevasses and pinnacles. Learn about glacier formation and movement, and enjoy supreme panoramic views. Choose from seasonal departure times to suit your schedule.

Twice the ice! Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers – Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier on this 30-minute helicopter flight with a glacier landing along the way. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations. You will then land on the snowfields up on one of the glaciers which is a huge highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories, before heading back down to Franz Josef Township

Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 20 minutes) Fly from our Franz Josef Heliport to the top of the Franz Josef icefall and land on the snow for fantastic photographic opportunities. This entry level flight will show you why so many are impressed by the sheer crevasses and pinicles that form the ice scapes of the Franz Josef Glacier. Be sure to book from the correct departure location (Franz Josef)

Voted one of the 12 must-see things to visit in New Zealand by Lonely Planet, the West Coast Wildlife Centre is the largest kiwi hatching facility in the South Island and the foremost indoor, all-weather attraction in Franz Josef.  You are guaranteed to see live kiwi during the day inside our nocturnal house, including the world’s rarest kiwis.  Discover the interactive glacier attraction and West Coast storytelling areas or go behind the scenes on the “Kiwi & Tuatara Backstage Pass Tour.”  Numbers are very limited on the 40-minute Backstage Pass Tour so advanced bookings are highly recommended.  You’ll also find the best shopping in Franz Josef inside the all-weather facility and enjoy free Wi-Fi in the café. Recommended ” best Coffee” in Franz Josef by Tripadvisor customers. If you purchase a VIP Backstage Pass Tour your general admission ticket is included in the price.

Lake Mapourika holds great stock of New Zealand Brown Trout and Wild Sea-Run Salmon. The calm waters and scenic views will keep all anglers entertained. Our unique comfortable tour boat makes fishing and excellent activity rain or shine.

Marvel at some of New Zealand’s most amazing scenery on this once-in-a-lifetime 30-minute helicopter flight over the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Enjoy panoramic views of the glaciers’ natural beauty from your helicopter high in the sky. Listen to live commentary from your professional pilot on route and gaze over the mantle of sheet ice and snow below. Land at the head of either the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, then hop out to experience the frozen landscape up close. Pose for photographs and capture the glacial scenery on camera.

Twin Glacier Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes) This flight gives you the opportunity to discover the scenic wonders of both the Fox and Franz Josef Glacier’s. With departures available from Franz Josef or Fox (separate schedules), you will be amazed by the wonderful blue ice of these two beauties as you soar across the snow covered pinnacles onto the snowfields of the Fox or Franz Josef glacier. These catchment areas, or Neve’s, accumulate years of Winter snow which over time descends into the lower valley’s as the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you’ll generally find one of them out flying most days. On our Ultimate Discovery flight you’ll see the three “big” glaciers. You’ll fly over the Franz Josef, Fox & Tasman Glaciers and fly into the Southern Alps to see Mount Cook and enjoy the included 10-15 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 45 minutes. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.

Start the experience with a scenic flight high above Franz Josef offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You will enjoy up to six hours on the glacier exploring spectacular features with your friendly and knowledgeable guide. With small groups of 1 guide to 4 guests, you will be given plenty of guidance and tailor the ice climbing to your level. Your guide will provide knowledgeable and informative commentary on the region, glaciology, local history, and Māori legends. There is plenty of time for unforgettable photo opportunities on the glacier. We will provide all equipment, so just bring your energy and enthusiasm and we will help with the rest!

Twice the ice! Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers – Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier on this 30-minute helicopter flight with a glacier landing along the way. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations. You will then land on the snowfields up on one of the glaciers which is a huge highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories, before heading back down to Fox Glacier Township.

Get the best of both worlds with experiencing the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers in one flight. Both glaciers are very distinct from each other and have their own unique features but together they show off the beauty of nature with crystal clear blue ice, eye opening crevasses and cerax as well as numerous alpine glacial fed waterfalls. This flight also includes views of the Victoria, Baumann and Fritz glaciers.

On this private Pilots Choice flight you’ll see two of the three “big” glaciers. You’ll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier then over either the Fox Glacier or Tasman Glacier past Mount Cook and fly into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 35 minutes. We are a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you’ll generally find one of them out flying most days. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office. Please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter’s weight and balance requirements.

The one-hour fixed-wing flight from Queenstown to the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki Mount Cook is certainly spectacular, but the highlight of this trip is the glacier Heli Hike. The experienced guides will take you into a deep part of the glacier via a scenic helicopter flight. The helicopter passes over the deep crevasses of the icefalls and waterfalls to land on the Tasman glacier itself. From there you’ll be fitted with crampons for the two hours on the ice, exploring caves and seeing the natural, ever-changing wonder of the glacier in the South Island of New Zealand.

Get the best of both worlds along with a snow landing! Experience both the Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glaciers. See for your self the distinctive beauty that both glaciers on their own have to offer. After you have been amazed by the stunning scenery stop and take pictures along with an informative chat with your pilot. Enjoy personal friendly local hospitality from a locally family owned and operated small business that have been operating in the area for more than 25 years. This Scenic Flight and Snow Landing experience is great for travellers of all ages and levels of physical fitness.

The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glacier and touch snow. You’ll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over Franz Josef Glacier and experience the solitude of landing in this wonderful natural alpine environment.

Experience two of New Zealand’s finest National Parks, divided by the imposing Southern Alps. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier snowfields with a helicopter snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Learn about the stunning landscape as your professional pilot delivers an informative commentary enroute. You’ll fly along the Main Divide for fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki (Mount Cook) before heading back down towards the lush rainforests at the edge of the Tasman Sea.

Treat yourself to our ultimate tour and immerse yourself in the spectacular Southern Alps as this flight offers you an introduction to both the Westland Tai Poutini National Park and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. After experiencing the contrast between the different features of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers you will fly past waterfalls and alpine huts to reach the view of the much anticipated Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Just when you think you have seen it all experience the snow for yourself with a snow landing which includes perfect photo opportunities and a chat with your friendly pilot. ​

Skydive amongst mountains, glaciers, lakes, rivers and ocean views. Skydive Franz has New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook and the biggest glaciers Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers immediately on the right and the wide blue ocean on the left. Multiple departure times. Allow 3 hours for your tandem skydive experience.

Skydive amongst mountains, glaciers, lakes, rivers and ocean views. Skydive Franz has New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook and the biggest glaciers Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers immediately on the right and the wide blue ocean on the left. Multiple departure times. Allow 3 hours for your tandem skydive experience.

Explore the untamed beauty of New Zealand’s Wild West Coast on this small group, fully-guided tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown. Your journey takes you along the rugged beaches of the West Coast, soaking in the dramatic landscapes that make this region so unique. As you traverse the unforgettable Haast Pass, you’ll be captivated by the lush rainforests and coastal plains before arriving at the serene, glacier-fed lakes of Wānaka and Hāwea. Led by our passionate guides, this tour goes beyond the destinations, offering secret stops, wildlife viewings and delightful surprises along the way. Travel in comfort with modern minibuses, enjoy complimentary refreshments and enjoy a provided lunch as you journey through one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions. At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, it’s the journey, the stories and the small group experience that truly set our tours apart. We also offer tours from Queenstown to Franz Josef, Franz Josef to Christchurch or Christchurch to Franz Josef.

Skydive amongst mountains, glaciers, lakes, rivers and ocean views. Skydive Franz has New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook and the biggest glaciers Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers immediately on the right and the wide blue ocean on the left. Multiple departure times. Allow 3 hours for your tandem skydive experience.

Enjoy the ultimate glacial experience on this 40-minute Mount Cook spectacular helicopter flight from Franz Josef. This flight tours covers it all including glacial icefalls and crevasses and neves. You will have views from the coast to mountain tops and you will get to see both glaciers and New Zealand’s highest peak. Cross the spine of the Southern Alps and circle the top of magnificent Mt Cook. Topped off with a spectacular snow landing, this is the best helicopter experience on the West Coast.

Traveling with us offers a range of exceptional features designed to enhance your journey. Enjoy entertaining driver commentary that adds a delightful touch to your trip, making it both informative and fun. Our premium coach comes equipped with an onboard toilet for your convenience, ensuring you travel comfortably without unnecessary stops. Relax in our leather reclining seats, providing a luxurious and comfortable experience. Stay connected with free WIFI and onboard USB charging docks, so you can keep your devices powered throughout the journey. Additionally, we offer plenty of luggage storage, ensuring that you can bring along everything you need without any hassle.

Travel in style and in the comfort of a luxurious minivan with a one-way transfer from Christchurch to Franz Josef or Fox Glacier (or in reverse order). Just sit back, relax and enjoy the eternal beauty of New Zealand, as we drive you to your destination. HIGHLIGHTS: • One-way transfer Christchurch to Franz Josef or Fox Glacier (or in reverse order). • Admire the stunning landscapes on the way to your destination. • View spectacular limestone sculptures at Castle Hill conservation area. • Visit Arthur’s Pass National Park & spot Kea, the alpine parrot. • Admire the breath-taking views from Otira Viaduct Lookout. • Round-the-clock service and secured reservations.

The West Coast of New Zealand offers a unique holiday experience, featuring scenic roads, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque spots. This iconic route takes you on a bucket list adventure along the ever-changing coastline, passing through hidden gems and towns, and offering endless opportunities to stop and explore. You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Skydive amongst mountains, glaciers, lakes, rivers and ocean views. Skydive Franz has New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook and the biggest glaciers Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers immediately on the right and the wide blue ocean on the left. Multiple departure times. Allow 3 hours for your tandem skydive experience.

Experience the ultimate 1 way adventure from Franz Josef to Wanaka. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you from Franz Josef along the beautiful West Coast beaches, over the stunning Haast Pass, and through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Franz Josef Glacier with this incredible adventure designed for those short on time but big on exploration. Begin your adventure with a scenic Helicopter Flight. Marvel at panoramic views of the West Coast and surrounding mountain ranges. Land on the iconic glacier and spend 15 minutes on the stunning ice with our expert guides, immersing yourself in this iconic natural wonder. This adventure is perfect for all fitness levels: A hassle-free experience that’s accessible to everyone. With exclusive access to the Franz Josef Glacier Guides, we are the only operator permitted to land on the Franz Josef Glacier.

The West Coast of New Zealand offers a unique holiday experience, featuring scenic roads, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque spots. This iconic route takes you on a bucket list adventure along the ever-changing coastline, passing through hidden gems and towns, and offering endless opportunities to stop and explore. You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you. Memories made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour! Highlights • Castle Hill • Devils punchbowl • Arthurs Pass Village • Otira Lookout • Hokitika Beach Sign • Hokitika Gorge

Welcome you to discover the extraordinary Shackleton Glacier and the fascinating story of its namesake’s Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition. This 50-minute flight includes: – Franz Josef, Tasman and Shackleton Glaciers – Mount Cook & Mount Tasman – Fly through the Southern Alps where the “”Lighting of The Beacons”” was filmed for Lord of the Rings – 15-minute snow landing included – Complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey available to those who want to sample it with the glacial ice Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy own the company and are both commercial pilots.

Twin Glacier Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes) This flight gives you the opportunity to discover the scenic wonders of both the Fox and Franz Josef Glacier’s. With departures available from Franz Josef or Fox (separate schedules), you will be amazed by the wonderful blue ice of these two beauties as you soar across the snow covered pinnacles onto the snowfields of the Fox or Franz Josef glacier. These catchment areas, or Neve’s, accumulate years of Winter snow which over time descends into the lower valley’s as the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.

On our private Glacier Explorer flight, you’ll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier and then into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10-minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time: approx. 25 minutes. Please allow an extra 45 minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to the helicopter, loading, unloading, and returning to our office. Please note that while this is a private flight, you may share the check-in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. The total weight of the passenger load must be within the helicopter’s weight and balance requirements.

Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of New Zealand largest glaciers. From above you can view and appreciate the incredible natural phenomenon, towering ice formations and vast size of the glaciers. Top it off with a snow landing and standing on the ancient ice of the glaciers. You’ll also fly over the Tasman Glacier on the eastern side of the Southern Alps and close to Mount Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak.

This premier 40-minute helicopter tour lets you experience two of New Zealand’s finest National Parks, divided by the imposing Southern Alps. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier snowfields with a landing at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Step out of the helicopter and experience how it feels to walk on snow. Then follow the Main Divide for fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki (Mount Cook) before heading back down towards the lush rainforests at the edge of the Tasman Sea.

Mount Cook and Fox Glacier including snow landing (allow 30 minutes) Explore the ice pinnacles and seracs of the magnificent Fox Glacier then fly by the sheer West faces of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman before descending back down the Fox Glacier after your snow landing. Your snow landing provides opportunities to photograph the panoramic and breathtaking scenery. (Be sure to check the departure point – this flight option only departs from our Fox Glacier Base. Reporting time 30 minutes prior to departure)

West Coast from Franz Josef. The West Coast of New Zealand offers a unique holiday experience, featuring scenic roads, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque spots. This iconic route takes you on a bucket list adventure along the ever-changing coastline, passing through hidden gems and towns, and offering endless opportunities to stop and explore. Join us as you hop on the train towards Christchurch in the afternoon offering views only possible through the Tranzalpine, this allows a panoramic landscape of the Majestic Southern Alps up close.

Enjoy the ultimate glacial experience on this 40-minute Mount Cook spectacular helicopter flight from Fox Glacier. This flight tour covers it all including glacial icefalls and crevasses and neves. You will have views from the coast to mountain tops and you will get to see both Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers and New Zealand’s highest peak. Cross the spine of the Southern Alps and circle the top of magnificent Mt Cook. Topped off with a spectacular snow landing, this is the best helicopter experience on the West Coast.

This small group Franz Josef Heli Hike Adventure offers a unique glacier experience, including a scenic helicopter flight, lunch, and drinks. You’ll fly from Franz Josef over lush rainforest, landing at 1200m on the glacier. You’ll explore the glacier for up to 6 hours with a guide. With a small group size of 1 guide to 4 guests, the adventure can be customized to your preferred level of difficulty.

We welcome you to discover the extraordinary Shackleton Glacier and the fascinating story of its namesake’s Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition. This 50-minute flight includes flying over the Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers. Fly past Mount Cook & Mount Tasman and then through the Southern Alps where the “”Lighting of The Beacons”” was filmed for Lord of the Rings. You’ll have an included 15minute snow landing on the Shackleton Glacier where a complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey available to those who want to sample. We are a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef and please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share the check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter’s weight and balance requirements.

A glacier tour unlike anything else in the world. Cross the main divide and experience amazing views of the La Peruse & Balfour Glaciers, Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers, lush greens of the native rainforest, and towering peaks of Aoraki Mount cook and Mount Tasman to land on New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Once landed, the Helicopter will shut down completely for passengers to enjoy the tranquility and silence of the beautiful alpine surroundings. Enjoying clean air, glistening snow and plenty of time for photography before returning to the West Coast and descending the Franz Josef Glacier back to Franz Josef Heliport.

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you’ll generally find one of them out flying most days. On our Pilots Choice flight you’ll see two of the three “big” glaciers. You’ll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier then over either the Fox Glacier or Tasman Glacier and fly into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 35 minutes. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office.

Journey over the mesmerizing Tasman Glacier Lake, taking in breathtaking views while following the path of the Tasman Glacier. Experience the grandeur of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak and land on a pristine glacier. Traverse the majestic Southern Alps, crossing to the West Coast. Take in the spectacular scenery and witness the mighty Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers for the ultimate glacier experience.