Franz Josef: Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40-Min Helicopter Flight
Active
40m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience two of New Zealand's finest National Parks, divided by the imposing Southern Alps. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier snowfields with a helicopter snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Learn about the stunning landscape as your professional pilot delivers an informative commentary enroute. You'll fly along the Main Divide for fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki (Mount Cook) before heading back down towards the lush rainforests at the edge of the Tasman Sea.
Available options
Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Helicopter Flight
What's included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes)
Pilot guide
Live commentary on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Departing from Franz Josef Village, fly up towards the Franz Josef Glacier and enjoy the incredible views as your soar up over the glacial crevasses and ever changing ice formations before landing up on the Franz Josef Glacier for up to 10 minutes.
2
Soar past the spectacular Southern Alps!
3
Fly close to Mount Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand's highest peak as well as seeing the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand's longest glacier.
4
Fly over Fox Glacier during your experience and marvel at the impressive ice formations.
What's not included
Items of a personal nature
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
14 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
21 reviews
5★
20
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult, Children weighing less than 15kgs are required to sit on a parents lap.
It is recommended that warm clothing and suitable footwear be worn on this tour due to cold temperatures. Moderate fitness is required
Meeting point
Weather check – due to very changeable weather conditions your weather is at same time as check-in. Check-In closes 30 minutes prior to departure time.
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.
About Franz Josef & Fox Glacier
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are two of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, offering stunning natural beauty and a range of adventure activities. These glaciers are unique for their proximity to the Tasman Sea, creating a dramatic landscape where tropical rainforest meets ice fields.
Top Attractions
Franz Josef Glacier
One of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, offering stunning views and a range of adventure activities.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on the activity)
Fox Glacier
Another of New Zealand's famous glaciers, offering similar activities to Franz Josef but with fewer crowds.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on the activity)
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Natural hot pools fed by glacial water, offering a relaxing experience after a day of adventure.
Relaxation
1-2 hours
Moderate
Lake Matheson
A picturesque lake known for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Nature
1-2 hours for a walk, longer for photography
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb toffee pieces.
Dessert
Contains dairy and sugar
Fresh Seafood
The West Coast is known for its fresh seafood, including fish, crayfish, and oysters.
Lunch/Dinner
Varies by dish, may contain allergens
Lamb Rack
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its quality and flavor, often served as a rack with herbs and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Guided glacier hikes
Helicopter tours
Kayaking
Hiking
Mountain biking
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Scenic walks
Beachcombing
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer offers the warmest weather and the most daylight hours, making it ideal for hiking, glacier tours, and other outdoor activities. The crowds are at their highest during this period.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time, NZDT during daylight saving)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are generally safe destinations, but visitors should be aware of the natural hazards associated with outdoor activities, such as glacier hikes and scenic flights.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of weather conditions and changing weather patterns
- • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities
- • Stay on marked trails and paths
Getting there
By air
- Christchurch International Airport • 250 km (155 miles) from Franz Josef
By bus
Christchurch, Greymouth, Wanaka
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in the area, with regular services to and from major cities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No major app-based services
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Franz Josef Township
Fox Glacier Township
Day trips
Lake Matheson
25 km (15 miles) from Franz Josef • Half-day
A scenic lake known for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Okarito Lagoon
50 km (31 miles) from Franz Josef • Full-day
A unique coastal lagoon known for its birdlife, including the rare kotuku (white heron).
Gillespies Beach
30 km (18 miles) from Fox Glacier • Half-day to full-day
A secluded beach with dramatic coastal scenery and access to the rainforest.
Festivals
West Coast Wildfoods Festival • Annually in March
Pro tips
- Visit Lake Matheson early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook
- Book glacier tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Dress in layers for changing weather conditions, and always be prepared for rain
- Explore both Franz Josef and Fox Glacier to experience the best of both towns and their respective glaciers
- Try local specialties like Hokey Pokey ice cream and fresh seafood
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
