Helicopter flying near snow-covered Mt Cook with Lake Pukaki in the background.
Lady photographing Mt Cook from helicopter during scenic flight tour.
Helicopter approaching Franz Josef Glacier on scenic flight tour.
Helicopter landing with people on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during scenic tour.
Group posing for a photo on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.
People enjoying snow on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.

From Franz Josef: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing

Franz Josef
Helicopter Tours
Google Verified Seller

Duration: Varies (20 min to 40 min)

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Guided tour

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Experience an exhilarating adventure with the From Franz Josef: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour, featuring snow landing on New Zealand's stunning Franz Josef Glacier. Soar above rugged peaks and lush rainforests in a helicopter tour that includes a unique opportunity to land directly onto the glacier’s snowy surface. This aerial sightseeing experience offers stunning views of alpine mountains and sweeping valleys before descending upon the iconic ice formations.

Fly above Franz Josef Glacier and land on snow for a stunning alpine helicopter adventure.

Enjoy panoramic views of glaciers, mountains, and rainforest before stepping onto the glacier’s snow for a memorable photo opportunity.

Explore the icy terrain safely and learn about the glacier’s ever-changing features from your experienced pilot.

Extend your flight to see both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, or take the longer route to enjoy Mount Cook and Mount Tasman for even bigger alpine views.

20-min Franz Josef helicopter tour

Snow landing on Franz Josef

Pilot guide

30-min Franz Josef & Fox Glacier helicopter tour (as per option selected)

40-min Glaciers & Mt. Cook helicopter tour (as per option selected)

Helicopter flying near snow-covered Mt Cook with Lake Pukaki in the background.

Helicopter flying near snow-covered Mt Cook with Lake Pukaki in the background.

Soar above rugged peaks and snow land on Franz Josef Glacier for a scenic helicopter experience.

Getting started

This adventure includes a scenic helicopter flight from Franz Josef township with the opportunity to land on snow atop Franz Josef Glacier. Arrive early to check in, get briefed by your pilot, and prepare for take‑off.

What to expect

  • Aerial views: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views over lush rainforest, alpine mountains and sweeping glacier valleys before landing on the snow‑capped glacier.

  • Snow landing: Touch down on Franz Josef Glacier’s snow for photos and to soak in the crisp alpine atmosphere.

  • Expert pilot guidance: Throughout your flight, benefit from engaging commentary and insights from your experienced pilot guide.

Lady photographing Mt Cook from helicopter during scenic flight tour.

Lady photographing Mt Cook from helicopter during scenic flight tour.

Helicopter approaching Franz Josef Glacier on scenic flight tour.

Helicopter approaching Franz Josef Glacier on scenic flight tour.

Helicopter landing with people on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during scenic tour.

Helicopter landing with people on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during scenic tour.

What to bring

  • Bring along your warm upper-body clothing (preferably 3-4 layers), leggings or light trousers, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What's not allowed

  • Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed on this experience.

  • Please avoid using iPads for photography during flights as they can obstruct views. Feel free to use phones, cameras, or GoPros instead.

  • Jeans are not recommended for this experience as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when wet.

Additional information

  • Snow landings are subject to weather conditions and are at the pilot’s discretion.

  • Infants under 3 years weighing less than 15 kg will fly for free, sitting on an adult's lap. Infants under 3 years weighing above 15 kg must be charged at the child fare.

Group posing for a photo on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.

Group posing for a photo on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.

People enjoying snow on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.

People enjoying snow on Franz Josef Glacier with a helicopter in the background.

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FAQs

The standard helicopter tour lasts for approximately 20 minutes from Franz Josef township to the glacier.
Bring warm upper-body clothing, preferably in 3-4 layers, along with leggings or light trousers. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen.
Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed during the experience. Avoid using iPads as they can obstruct views; phones, cameras, or GoPros are recommended instead.
During the snow landing, you'll have an opportunity for photos while soaking in the crisp alpine atmosphere of the glacier's snowy terrain.
You'll enjoy panoramic aerial views over lush rainforests, alpine mountains, and sweeping glacier valleys before landing on Franz Josef Glacier's snow.
An expert pilot guides you throughout, providing insights into the ever-changing features of the glacier and ensuring a safe exploration of its icy terrain.
The package includes a 20-minute flight over Franz Josef Glacier with snow landing and guidance from an expert pilot.
Jeans are not recommended as they become heavy and uncomfortable when wet with snow or rain.
Personal expenses are not covered by the helicopter tour package; these will be your responsibility during the experience.
Yes, you can choose additional options for a 30-minute tour of both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers or a 40-minute flight including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.

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