Lake Tekapo to Southern Alps Odyssey

South Island

Mackenzie Helicopters Limited

from

NZ$730

per person

Aerial view of the snow-covered Tasman Glacier stretching through the Southern Alps

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Tekapo

Location: Lake Tekapo

Duration: 45 minutes

Details

Journey Above New Zealand’s Alpine Heartland

The journey begins above Lake Tekapo’s shimmering turquoise waters, where golden tussocks stretch across the Mackenzie Basin. As your helicopter rises, the vast high-country landscape unfolds beneath you in stunning contrast. This incredible aerial perspective reveals the sheer beauty of New Zealand’s alpine heartland.

Crossing into the Southern Alps, the view transforms into a breathtaking world of snow-draped peaks and deep valleys. The play of light on glacier-fed lakes creates a painter’s palette of blues and whites. Every turn offers a fresh vista that captures the wild spirit of the South Island.

Helicopter flying above deep crevasses in the upper Tasman Glacier, Southern Alps

Helicopter flying past Mount Sefton at sunset with alpenglow lighting up the peaks

Aerial view of the Godley Valley with braided river and snow-capped peaks from a helicopter in New Zealand's Southern Alps

Helicopter flying above the Tasman Valley with snow-covered Southern Alps in the background at sunset

Helicopter flying over the rugged Hochstetter Glacier Icefall near Aoraki Mount Cook

Helicopter flying past Aoraki/Mount Cook at sunset with glaciers and Lake Pukaki visible

Helicopter flying close to dramatic glacier crevasses at sunrise near Lake Tekapo

Helicopter flying over Tasman Glacier at sunrise with mountain peaks in view

Snow-covered peaks of Aoraki Mount Cook seen from a scenic helicopter flight

View from a helicopter flying above the braided Godley River towards Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps

Soaring Over Glaciers and Icefalls of Aoraki

Soaring into Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the country’s most iconic peaks. The mighty Aoraki, or ‘Cloud Piercer,’ dominates the skyline as the Tasman Glacier stretches below in sculpted ice. The Hochstetter Icefall adds another dramatic dimension, shimmering with movement and light.

An alpine landing lets you truly connect with this remarkable landscape. Step out into the crisp mountain air and take in panoramic views that few ever witness up close. It’s a moment of pure wonder—one that perfectly captures the magic of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

HIGHLIGHTS

40-Minute Scenic Flight: Enjoy a breathtaking journey from Lake Tekapo across the Mackenzie Region to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki/Mount Cook: Get close to New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki, and experience its grandeur from the air.
Tasman Glacier: Witness New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier, and the impressive Hochstetter Icefall.
Remote Alpine Landing: Land at a secluded alpine spot, perfect for photography and soaking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Scenic helicopter flight departing from Lake Tekapo.
Close aerial views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Tasman Glacier, and other notable alpine features.
Remote landing at a picturesque alpine location.
Flexibility to combine with other experiences (pricing and details available upon request).

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Landing Site: One remote alpine landing site included.
Minimum Numbers: A minimum number of passengers may be required for this flight.
Weather Conditions: Flights are subject to weather conditions; please check availability and confirm pricing when booking.
Passenger Conduct: Passengers must conduct themselves in a manner that does not endanger any person or property and comply with instructions from pilots and ground crew.
Combination Tours: Our scenic flights can be combined with other experiences; enquire for pricing and details.
Health and Safety: We prioritise the health and safety of guests, employees, and the environment, operating under a CAA-approved SMS using international best practices.