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South Island

Start: Glenorchy or Queenstown
Locations: Glenorchy, Queenstown
Travel Time: 1 hour

Mt Earnslaw Glacier and a Remote Valley Landing

High-country stations, braided rivers and rugged mountain ranges lead towards Mt Earnslaw on this scenic helicopter flight from Glenorchy. A close aerial pass reveals the hanging Earnslaw Glacier, where ancient ice clings to the cliffs above the valley.

The flight descends into Earnslaw Burn for a remote valley-floor landing surrounded by waterfalls, sheer rock walls and alpine scenery. Additional alpine or glacier landings can be added, extending the experience from approximately 45 minutes to around 60–70 minutes.

Highlights

  • See the hanging Earnslaw Glacier from the air
  • Land beneath the steep cliffs of Earnslaw Burn
  • View waterfalls, alpine valleys and glacier-shaped terrain
  • Fly above braided rivers and remote high-country stations
  • Spend time in one of the region’s most dramatic wilderness settings
  • Extend the experience with an additional alpine or glacier landing
  • Scenic helicopter flight from Glenorchy
  • Close aerial view of Mt Earnslaw Glacier
  • Remote landing inside Earnslaw Burn
  • Views across high-country stations, rivers and alpine ranges
  • Commentary from an experienced local pilot
  • Optional alpine or glacier landing upgrades
  • Contact the operator one hour before departure for a weather check
  • Passenger weights are required when booking
  • Flights operate subject to availability and minimum passenger numbers
  • Shared departures may carry other guests
  • Flight paths and landing locations may change at the pilot’s discretion
  • Alpine and glacier landing upgrades depend on suitable conditions
  • Queenstown transfers must be added when booking

Seasonal Information

Earnslaw Burn changes throughout the year. Waterfalls are generally strongest during spring, summer and autumn, while winter conditions may produce fewer fast-flowing cascades.

The flight operates year-round, but visible features, flight paths and landing conditions vary with the weather and season.

  • Adults: 12 years +
  • Children: 3 –11 years (70% of the adult fare).
  • Infants: 2 years and under (50% of the adult fare).
  • More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund*
  • Within 24 hours of departure: 50% cancellation fee *
  • If we cannot operate due to weather and as a result, passengers are unable to fly, no cancellation fees will apply. Full refund*

*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.

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