Mount Cook: Mountains High 40-Minute Helicopter Flight
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Mount Cook: Mountains High 40-Minute Helicopter Flight

Active
(51 reviews)
40m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Aoraki/Mount Cook ‘the cloud piercer’, our highest peak dominates the Southern Alps mountain range that divides New Zealand’s South Island into east and west. The Mt Cook National Park’s towering mountains, vast glaciers and remote snowfields inspired Sir Edmund Hillary, before his quest of Mt Everest.

This flight takes you past the Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki/Mt Cook and the upper Tasman Glacier before a thrilling alpine landing in the snow. You’ll fly home through the remote Burnett Mountains with the expansive and arid Mackenzie Basin below you.

Available options

Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight

What's included

Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes)
Pilot guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

This flight takes you past the Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki/Mt Cook and the upper Tasman Glacier before a thrilling alpine landing in the snow.

2

Marvel at the Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki/ Mount Cook. Be thrilled by an alpine landing in the snow.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Experience the remoteness of the Burnett Mountains and the expansive Mackenzie Basin below you.

What's not included

Items of a personal nature

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6
22 reviews
5★
18
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor 4.9
29 reviews
5★
27
4★
0
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
It is recommended that warm clothing and suitable footwear be worn on this tour due to cold temperatures.
Please advise preferred flight time at time of booking

Important notes

• It is recommended that sunglasses, warm clothing and suitable footwear be worn due to cold temperatures
• To avoid disappointment please let us know if a passenger's weight changes from time of booking. If your actual weight at check in is 15kg (33lb) or greater than your declared weight, you may need to be rescheduled and would be subject to flight availability.
• All scenic flights are subject to weather conditions. Should a flight not operate due to weather conditions or minimum number requirements, passengers can redeem their voucher for any other scenic flights of similar duration and price at any of The Helicopter Line operations in Mount Cook, Queenstown, Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier.
• Get in touch with us if your contact details have changed or need updating from time of booking.
• Hotel pickups (if available) commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook, also known as Mount Cook, is New Zealand's highest peak and a major tourist attraction. The area offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand and a major climbing destination. The mountain offers stunning views and challenging climbs for experienced mountaineers.

Nature Half-day to full day Free to view, climbing permits required

Hooker Valley Track

A popular hiking trail leading to the Hooker Valley and the Mueller Glacier. The track offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Hiking 3-4 hours Free

Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

A museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Sir Edmund Hillary, featuring exhibits on mountaineering and the history of the Southern Alps.

Museum 1-2 hours NZD 25-30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Rack

New Zealand is famous for its lamb, and a rack of lamb is a must-try dish, often served with seasonal vegetables and sauces.

Dinner Contains meat, can be prepared to dietary specifications.

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb pieces.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountaineering Helicopter tours Scenic drives Picnicking by the lake Visiting the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Lake Pukaki visits Skiing and snowboarding

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the best time to visit for hiking, camping, and enjoying the warm weather. The days are longer, and the weather is generally more stable.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Māori
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The area is generally safe, but outdoor activities come with inherent risks. Always follow safety guidelines and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
  • • Carry sufficient water and snacks on hikes.
  • • Check weather forecasts before heading out.

Getting there

By air
  • Christchurch International Airport • 300 km (186 miles)
By bus

Christchurch, Queenstown

Getting around

Public transport

Buses connect Mount Cook Village to nearby towns and cities but are not frequent. Schedules should be checked in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Mount Cook Village

Day trips

Lake Pukaki
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

Lake Pukaki is a stunning glacial lake with turquoise waters and views of Aoraki Mount Cook. It's a great spot for photography and picnics.

Festivals

No major festivals • N/A

Pro tips

  • Arrive early in the day to secure parking and accommodation.
  • Pack layers as the weather can change rapidly.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading out on hikes.
  • Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Carry a map and compass, as cell service can be spotty in the mountains.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 15-99
1
Childs
Age 4-14
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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