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10 Helicopter Tours in Mackenzie District That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in Mackenzie District, New Zealand including 5 Day South Island Circut: Trains, Glaciers and Milford Sound from Christchurch, 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter , Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Helicopter Flight, 45-Minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook, Fox Glacier and Mount Cook Helicopter Flight, Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight, 35-Minute Valley and Glacier Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook, Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight departing Fox Glacier, Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight, 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour.
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1. 5 Day South Island Circut: Trains, Glaciers and Milford Sound from Christchurch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Discover the highlights of New Zealand's South Island, from stunning glaciers to vast National Parks there's plenty to explore! Tour highlights include the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Train, a glacier Heli Hike, Glacier Hot Pools and an unforgettable day trip to Fiordland for a Milford Sound Nature Cruise. The perfect way to fit the best of the South Island into five day! This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.
Inclusions: Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicles, Return coach transport from Christchurch, Breif commentary on board coaches and tours, 4 nights accommodation, TranzApline Scenic Train, Franz Josef Heli Hike, Glacier Hot Pools, Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Exclusions: Meals unless specified, Pre and post tour accommodation, Gratuities, Travel insurance. We recommend travel insurance for all tours
2. 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Soar through the sky on this 55-minute scenic Helicopter experience through the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks flying over the Fox, Franz Josef and Tasman Glacier, included a glacier landing (10-15 minutes). The ultimate way to see the Southern Alps and a bucket list flight. Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the flight time.
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By amandasargeant
For me this was a chance to tick off two of my bucket list items all in one - ride in a helicopter and stand on a glacier. What an incredible experience. Andrew (the pilot) made sure he told us all we needed to know (both in terms of helicopter safety and what we were seeing). We had a good amount of time on the glacier where things were pointed out to us around the area. The team on the ground were so helpful and cheerful on what was obviously a busy day. I had an epic time and I cannot recommend this experience more ... definitely worth it ... the views are amazing. Thank you team.
3. Franz Josef Mountain Scenic Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
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 landing at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Learn about the stunning landscape as your professional pilot delivers an informative commentary en route. You'll walk 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.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes), Live commentary on board, Pilot guide, GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By heatherfs2019
Helicopter Line had great reviews compared to their competitors sp we chose them for the heli hike at Franz Josef. Everything was well orgabised and we got in the helicopter in no time. The sky was blue and made for a magnificent flight up the glacier. We got underway and got to experience and see some beautiful scenery. Pictures do not do it justice! Highly recommend!
4. 45-Minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 17 reviews
Join this 45-minute Helicopter scenic experience through Aoraki Mt Cook National Park for a helicopter tour like no other! Sit back, relax, and soak in the breathtaking views from the moment you’re airborne. Experience everything Mt Cook National Park has to offer. Glacier landing (10-15 minutes) on the Tasman Glacier, fly to the top of the Tasman Glacier Check in closes 45 minutes to the flight time
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By Nicholas Y
There is no scenic flight in New Zealand which matches the awesomeness of the flight around the glaciers including landing on a glacier. If you were to choose one scenic flight to do in New Zealand, this is the one. Make sure you put it high on your bucket list as you won't regret it. The staff are very friendly, helpful, skilful and knowledgeable. The experience takes you so close to the Southern Alps; in particular Aoraki Mount Cook itself. You feel as though you could reach out and touch it. The manouevrability of the Pilatus PC-6 is amazing. The magic happens when you land on the glacier in a plane - the landing is so smooth you don't even know you've touched down - the only way of knowing you've touched down on the glacier is by looking at the snow/ice spray from the skis. Whichever glacier you end up landing on, it will be extraordinary experience. Paying a little extra for a view of the West Coast glaciers and the chance of landing on the Fox or Franz Josef Glaciers if conditions are suitable is worth it in my view. Even if it's overcast (if the cloud ceiling is above the mountains), it'll be worth it. Don't forget your sunglasses and even sunscreen as the glacier reflects everything back onto you from all angles. I'd do it again in a heartbeat, no doubt about it.
5. Fox Glacier and Mount Cook Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 21 reviews
Depart Fox Glacier Village, fly over the legendary Fox Glacier and snowfields and watch the crevasses and ice forms race by below you. Land in the snow above the icefalls of the glacier and experience the magnitude of the scenery surrounding you. Then let the impressive presence of Aoraki (Mount Cook) amaze you as you explore it's majestic west face, before descending down into the valleys below.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 -10 minutes), Live commentary on board, Pilot guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By heatherfs2019
Helicopter Line had great reviews compared to their competitors sp we chose them for the heli hike at Franz Josef. Everything was well orgabised and we got in the helicopter in no time. The sky was blue and made for a magnificent flight up the glacier. We got underway and got to experience and see some beautiful scenery. Pictures do not do it justice! Highly recommend!
6. Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 90 reviews
Our premier flight over the Mt Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields. See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook during your snow landing. Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop off, Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes), Pilot guide, GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By rishayals
A truly magical and unforgettable experience! We did the heli hike with Scott who was the best guide we could have asked for. He was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything and show us how to use the crampons and walk on the glacier. We were lucky enough to see some amazing ice caves which Scott took us through. One of us got a bit claustrophobic so Scott took her in separately afterwards so she could see as well. The helicopter pilot was also amazing with a super smooth ride. We were the only ones on the tour as well. Absolute value for money, you won’t regret it. Highly recommend!!
7. 35-Minute Valley and Glacier Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 19 reviews
The Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island offers one of the most visually spectacular glacier environments in the world. Experience the adventure of flying through the towering mountains of the Southern Alps in a an helicopter, with a glacier landing (10-15 minutes) Tasman Glacier: The Tasman Glacier is New Zealand’s largest glacier and flows from the Southern Alps southeast to the Mackenzie Basin. It is an unforgettable experience to view this glacier both from the air and on top of it, especially when the aircraft shuts down its engine, leaving you in the serene silence that this breathtaking beauty has to offer. Beautiful views right from takeoff: Tasman Terminal Lake Aoraki/Mt Cook Mt Tasman Hochstetter Icefall Grand Plateau and Plateau Hut Landing in the mid-Tasman Glacier snowfields Snow/ice all year round
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By amandasargeant
For me this was a chance to tick off two of my bucket list items all in one - ride in a helicopter and stand on a glacier. What an incredible experience. Andrew (the pilot) made sure he told us all we needed to know (both in terms of helicopter safety and what we were seeing). We had a good amount of time on the glacier where things were pointed out to us around the area. The team on the ground were so helpful and cheerful on what was obviously a busy day. I had an epic time and I cannot recommend this experience more ... definitely worth it ... the views are amazing. Thank you team.
8. Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight departing Fox Glacier
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 15 reviews
Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of New Zealand largest glaciers. From above you can view and appreciate the incredible natural phenomenon, towering ice formations and vast size of the glaciers. Top it off with a snow landing and standing on the ancient ice of the glaciers. You’ll also fly over the Tasman Glacier on the eastern side of the Southern Alps and close to Mount Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5-10 minutes), Live commentary on board, Professional guide, GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By heatherfs2019
Helicopter Line had great reviews compared to their competitors sp we chose them for the heli hike at Franz Josef. Everything was well orgabised and we got in the helicopter in no time. The sky was blue and made for a magnificent flight up the glacier. We got underway and got to experience and see some beautiful scenery. Pictures do not do it justice! Highly recommend!
9. Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 24 reviews
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.
Inclusions: Scenic helicopter flight with snow landing (5 - 10 minutes), Pilot guide
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature
Reviewed By rishayals
A truly magical and unforgettable experience! We did the heli hike with Scott who was the best guide we could have asked for. He was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything and show us how to use the crampons and walk on the glacier. We were lucky enough to see some amazing ice caves which Scott took us through. One of us got a bit claustrophobic so Scott took her in separately afterwards so she could see as well. The helicopter pilot was also amazing with a super smooth ride. We were the only ones on the tour as well. Absolute value for money, you won’t regret it. Highly recommend!!
10. 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 44 reviews
Join this tour for the unique opportunity to fly in both a Ski Plane and Helicopter! a 45 minute flight including a Tasman glacier (10-15 minutes) then to switch aircraft for the flight home! Flying through the remarkable Tasman Valley and landing on the snow covered peaks with this scenic option is an unforgettable experience and a WORLD EXCLUSIVE FLIGHT with both the ski plane and helicopter! Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the flight time
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board, Professional guide
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By amandasargeant
For me this was a chance to tick off two of my bucket list items all in one - ride in a helicopter and stand on a glacier. What an incredible experience. Andrew (the pilot) made sure he told us all we needed to know (both in terms of helicopter safety and what we were seeing). We had a good amount of time on the glacier where things were pointed out to us around the area. The team on the ground were so helpful and cheerful on what was obviously a busy day. I had an epic time and I cannot recommend this experience more ... definitely worth it ... the views are amazing. Thank you team.
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