Explore New Zealand’s Glacial Wilderness on Foot and Ice
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a haven for alpine adventurers, offering some of the most rewarding day hikes in New Zealand. Tracks like Mount Wakefield and Mount Sebastopol provide sweeping views over the Hooker Valley, Lake Pukaki, and the mighty peak of Aoraki itself. The Red Tarns Track, accessible via the Sebastopol route, leads to a serene alpine tarn reflecting the Southern Alps—an iconic photo opportunity for those willing to make the climb.
But for those looking to take their adventure beyond the trail, heli-hiking and ice climbing on the Tasman Glacier offer next-level experiences. A scenic helicopter flight whisks you over dramatic alpine landscapes before landing directly on the glacier, where a guided hike takes you through glistening ice caves, deep crevasses, and otherworldly blue-ice formations. It’s a thrilling and intimate way to experience New Zealand’s largest glacier from a truly unique perspective.
Tasman Glacier Climbing and Heli-Accessed Alpine Experiences
For a more vertical thrill, ice climbing on the Tasman Glacier is a must for adventurers craving a mix of physical challenge and natural wonder. Led by expert alpine guides, climbers use crampons and ice axes to scale frozen walls and navigate technical glacial features. Whether you're a beginner or have prior experience, the guides tailor the climbs to suit your skill level—ensuring both safety and exhilaration.
These heli-accessed glacier adventures offer more than just adrenaline; they provide access to a remote world few get to see up close. With the grandeur of Aoraki towering nearby, you’ll feel the full force of the Southern Alps’ majesty. Whether hiking across sculpted ice or scaling a glistening face of frozen water, this is a rare chance to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s most dramatic alpine environment.
