Scenic helicopter flightApproximately 10-minute alpine landingPre-flight safety briefingPilot commentaryWhat to BringJacketSunglassesSturdy footwearCamera or phone for photos

Adult: 18 years +Children: 4-17 yearsInfant: 3 years and under

Cancellations & Refunds

24 hours or more before departure: Full refund**.Within 24 hours: No refundFlights are weather dependent, with possible changes or cancellations at the pilot’s discretion. Full refunds** are issued if we cannot fly.If your day doesn't go to plan and you are late, please do reach out as soon as possible, we will try rescheduling you to a later flight or the next day when possible.Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Overview FAQs Pricing Book now

Glacier Explorer Franz Josef Helicopter Flight - 25 Mins

South Island

Glacier Country Helicopters

from

US$233

per adult

Book Now

Man standing beside Glacier Country Helicopters AS350 with snow-covered Southern Alps in the background

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Franz Josef

Duration: 25 minutes

This 25-minute Franz Josef helicopter flight takes in Franz Josef Glacier, the Southern Alps and Mt Elie de Beaumont. The experience includes an approximately 10-minute alpine landing, which may be on snow when seasonal conditions allow.

This is the operator’s shortest scenic landing flight and suits travellers wanting a compact introduction to Glacier Country. The route and landing site are weather dependent, with fewer alternative route options than the longer scenic flights

Close-up view of glacier crevasses near Franz Josef from a helicopter tour departing Greymouth

Aerial view of deep crevasses and icefalls on Franz Josef Glacier

Two GCH Squirrel helicopters flying over the Franz Josef Glacier with dramatic rocky cliffs in view

Glacier Country Helicopters flying above the icy terrain of Franz Josef Glacier

Passenger taking photo of snow-capped mountains through Glacier Country Helicopters window

GCH Squirrel helicopter flying over Franz Josef Glacier’s icy terrain in New Zealand

Glacier Country Helicopters’ Squirrel helicopters on a snow landing above Franz Josef Glacier in the Southern Alps

Glacier Country Helicopters HFH aircraft landed on snow near Franz Josef

Passengers flying over Lake Mapourika with Glacier Country Helicopters near Franz Josef

Aerial view of Franz Josef Glacier framed by rugged mountains

Tour Highlights

25-minute scenic helicopter flight
Franz Josef Glacier
Southern Alps
Mt Elie de Beaumont
Approximately 10-minute alpine landing
Snow landing when seasonal conditions allow
West Coast rainforest and alpine scenery

Scenic helicopter flight
Approximately 10-minute alpine landing
Pre-flight safety briefing
Pilot commentary

What to Bring

Jacket
Sunglasses
Sturdy footwear
Camera or phone for photos

Adult: 18 years +
Children: 4-17 years
Infant: 3 years and under

24 hours or more before departure: Full refund**.
Within 24 hours: No refund
Flights are weather dependent, with possible changes or cancellations at the pilot’s discretion. Full refunds** are issued if we cannot fly.
If your day doesn't go to plan and you are late, please do reach out as soon as possible, we will try rescheduling you to a later flight or the next day when possible.

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Flights may be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled when weather or operational conditions are unsuitable. The pilot makes the final decision for safety.

Yes. This flight has one main route and landing site, so there are fewer alternative options when cloud, wind or snow conditions affect access.

The complete experience lasts approximately 25 minutes, including the alpine landing.

The planned route includes Franz Josef Glacier, the Southern Alps and Mt Elie de Beaumont.

The tour includes an approximately 10-minute alpine landing. Snow is not guaranteed year-round and depends on seasonal snow levels and weather conditions.

Pricing

Cost per person

Oct 2025-Sep 2026: NZ$395

Pricing is correct at the time of publishing but subject to change without prior notice.

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Passenger Info

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I confirm that the individual passenger weights provided are accurate. I understand that any significant deviation from these declared weights may result in a surcharge or the need to reschedule the flight.

TOUR QUESTIONS

Please specify if you wish to include any tour options or extra days & if you have any special requirements. e.g dietary, physical, medical; and (if available) advise accommodation in New Zealand, if known.

Note: Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*