Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike from Queenstown

South Island

True South Flights

from

NZ$1699

per adult

Group standing next to a helicopter on the Tasman Glacier during a helihike tour

Experiences

Hiking & Walking

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Scenic Plane Flights

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

South Island

Start: Queenstown

Travel Time: 7 hours

Minimum Age: 10 Minimum Weight: Queenstown Maximum Weight: Queenstown

Details

Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike from Queenstown: A Scenic Start

Your day kicks off in Queenstown with a one-hour fixed-wing flight across the stunning Southern Alps to Aoraki/Mount Cook. As you soar above 3,000 glaciers, the views alone are worth the trip. This high-altitude journey sets the scene for an extraordinary experience on New Zealand’s longest glacier.

After landing, you'll be met by our helicopter and guiding partners, Alpine Guides, who will get you geared up for the ice. The helicopter flight to the glacier’s heart is nothing short of jaw-dropping, gliding over the Tasman terminal lake before touching down in the icy expanse. It’s here that your real adventure begins—with crampons strapped on and a guide leading you through natural ice caves and sculpted glacier terrain.

Aerial view of Lake Pukaki’s turquoise waters during a scenic flight to Mount Cook with True South Flights

Braided Tasman River near Glentanner Station seen from a scenic flight to Aoraki / Mount Cook with True South Flights

True South aircraft soaring over rugged snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps on a Mount Cook scenic flight

True South aircraft flying over glacier crevasses in the Southern Alps

Scenic flight over snowy peaks in the Southern Alps with True South

Plane from True South flying over crevassed glacier in New Zealand

Helicopter flying above snow-covered peaks and icy terrain near Tasman Glacier

Group putting on gear beside helicopter on Tasman Glacier landing site

Helicopter landing on the Tasman Glacier with group of hikers ready to explore

Close-up of crampons being secured to hiking boots on a glacier hike

Wide-angle view of hikers crossing the expansive Tasman Glacier

Visitor taking a photo inside a vivid blue ice cave on the Tasman Glacier

Guide interpreting glacial features for hikers on the Tasman Glacier

Helihikers walking across the Tasman Glacier after disembarking from helicopter

Guided group hiking across the Tasman Glacier beneath a dramatic alpine sky

Glacier guide standing in a dark ice cave with reflective glacier walls

Guided hikers approaching the edge of the Tasman Glacier near the moraine

Guided group hiking across the Tasman Glacier with Mount Cook peaks in the distance

Helihikers walking through a deep ice tunnel with textured blue glacier walls

Guided group watching a powerful waterfall pouring from the glacier wall

Helihike guide carving safe steps into the ice on the Tasman Glacier

Aerial view of hikers carefully climbing icy ridgelines on the Tasman Glacier

Couple walking in snow near Mount Cook with glacier-covered peaks in the background

Drone view of helicopter and hikers on the cracked surface of the Tasman Glacier

Helicopter and guided hikers on a crevassed section of the Tasman Glacier

Twin helicopters parked on the Tasman Glacier ice field near Mount Cook

Aoraki/Mt Cook’s Glacier Adventure: Flexible and Weather-Smart

The Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike is a great pick not just for its scenery, but also for its flexibility. If the weather on the east side isn’t cooperating, we can switch to the equally stunning Franz Josef side—no extra fuss, just a seamless swap. Since both glaciers offer nearly identical experiences, you’ll still get a full day of adventure either way.

At 23 kilometres long, the Tasman Glacier is a giant among New Zealand’s ice flows, while Franz Josef is known for its steeper descent. But once you’re on the ice, both serve up the same magic—sparkling blue caves, crevasses, and glacier-carved wonders. So book your favourite and stay flexible—you’ll walk away with an epic story no matter the route.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Scenic one-hour fixed-wing flight over the Southern Alps, with guaranteed window seats.
Flexible itineraries to accommodate weather conditions, offering a tailored experience of the glaciers.
Scenic helicopter flight to the heart of Franz Josef Glacier, featuring stunning views of icefalls and natural formations.
Two hours of guided exploration on the glacier, equipped with all necessary gear for a safe and immersive experience.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Courtesy transport between your accommodation and Queenstown Airport.
Return flights between Queenstown and Franz Josef Glacier, with an alternative route via Mt. Aspiring if conditions allow.
All required equipment for glacier hiking, including crampons, boots, socks, and ice axes.
Professional guidance throughout the tour, ensuring a memorable and safe glacier adventure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Minimum Passengers: A minimum of two passengers is required, with arrangements possible for solo travellers to join other groups.
Flexibility on Glacier Choice: Weather conditions may dictate the choice of glacier (Franz Josef or Tasman), with both offering comparable and stunning glacier hiking experiences.

AGE INFORMATION

Adults: 14 years+
Children: 10-13 years
Minimum age: 10 years

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS

More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund.**
Within 24 hours of departure: No refund.
If the weather isn’t suitable to safely conduct the flight on the day, you will have the option to rebook for the next available time or receive a full refund.
If the weather is safe to fly but will be turbulent, you will have the option of flying, rebooking, or receiving a full refund.

**Less credit card and booking fees.

Note: Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike from Queenstown

South Island

True South Flights

Experiences

South Island

Details

Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike from Queenstown: A Scenic Start

Aoraki/Mt Cook’s Glacier Adventure: Flexible and Weather-Smart

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

TOUR INCLUSIONS

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

AGE INFORMATION

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS

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