Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour | New Zealand
Enjoy a day out exploring glaciers among the southern lakes by helicopter with a special one-of-a-kind Queenstown helicopter tour! Witness breathtaking glaciers among the alpine environment and take in majestic scenes of the Southern Alps and Aspiring National Park!
- See dramatic views of the majestic Southern Alps and Aspiring National Park with a scenic flight from Queenstown
- Explore beautiful alpine surroundings and discover the glacier's ancient icefalls before a landing in the snow with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopter's flight experience!
- Witness Lake Wakatipu's mysterious northern shores, bush-covered valleys, and unparalleled views of Mt. Aspiring
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Helicopter sightseeing |
Product Info
— What You Can Expect —
Get ready for an exciting trip filled with incredible spectacles as you enjoy a tour by helicopter from Queenstown!
Witness the beautiful rugged mountain region, filled with unforgettable sights of white peaks and ancient glacier icefalls. Enjoy an alpine landing and stroll through the pure white snow, and admire the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu.
The main highlights you'll witness during this scenic flight from Queenstown include the amazing Mt. Aspiring, the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu, valleys covered in native bush, the mighty Dart River and Rees valleys, and more!
So don't hesitate to indulge in a helicopter flight dubbed the "Southern Glacier Experience" and enjoy only the best that this brilliant alpine environment has to offer!
Witness stunning views as you fly along the majestic Southern Alps and Aspiring National Park
Experience the beauty of Mount Aspiring, native forests, and ancient glaciers as you travel from the base to the Southern Alps, ending at the snow-covered peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park
Purchase Notice
- As this activity is weather dependent, please ensure to call 0800 500 575, 24-hours prior to departure for a weather check and to reconfirm your booking
- Children must be accompanied by a paying adult
- Infants below 4 years old and weighing less than 15 kg are required to sit on an adult's knee. If they weigh over 15 kg, they will require their seat
- Please note as each helicopter can hold up to 6 passengers or a maximum combined weight of 480kg, you may need to share the flight with other travellers
- Please be informed that participating is understanding there are environmental and external elements beyond control may be risky, KKday and tour operator don't take responsibility
- When booking with KKday, guests agreed to the Risk Disclosure and Safety Management outlined here
- Please click here for more T&C and safety management
— What To Bring —
- Warm clothing
- Sturdy covered shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Phone and camera
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 40 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Failure to check-in on time will be treated as a no-show and will incur full payment
The availability is accurate at the time of booking but is subject to change due to circumstances outside of the operator's control. It is strongly suggested to confirm your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours at 0800 500 575
Flights, landings, or routes may vary due to weather and are subject to change at the pilot's discretion
Minimum passenger numbers apply for flights. Bookings will be coordinated to achieve this where possible
The flight is subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
For safety reasons, drones, iPads and selfie sticks are not allowed on board
Flights, landings and routes may vary due to weather and at the pilot’s discretion. Flight times are approximate and include your landing
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 3 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–2 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
The Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour is spectacular year-round, with each season offering unique scenery. Summer (December to February) provides warmer weather and clearer skies, ideal for vibrant glacier views. Autumn (March to May) features stunning golden foliage in the valleys surrounding the glaciers. Winter (June to August) transforms the landscape into a pristine, snow-covered wonderland, enhancing the dramatic alpine scenery and snow landing experience. Spring (September to November) brings fresh snow and budding flora.
Safety is paramount for the Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour. Operators adhere to stringent New Zealand aviation regulations. This includes regular maintenance checks for all helicopters, highly experienced and certified pilots, and thorough pre-flight safety briefings. Passengers receive instructions on boarding, disembarking, and in-flight procedures, as well as guidelines for behavior during snow landings to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
This tour offers a one-of-a-kind perspective of New Zealand's majestic Southern Alps, Aspiring National Park, and ancient glaciers, inaccessible by land. The value lies in the dramatic aerial views of remote alpine environments, the thrill of a snow landing on pristine icefalls, and the opportunity to witness diverse landscapes including Lake Wakatipu's northern shores and bush-covered valleys. It's an efficient way to experience vast, breathtaking wilderness in comfort.
During the Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour, you'll witness dramatic views of New Zealand's most iconic natural landmarks. These include the majestic peaks and expansive ranges of the Southern Alps, the vast wilderness of Aspiring National Park, and the ancient, pristine glaciers themselves. The scenic flight from Queenstown also offers unparalleled views of the region's diverse alpine environment.
Yes, a highlight of the Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour is the exhilarating snow landing. This allows participants to step out onto the pristine, ancient icefalls of the glacier, providing a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the spectacular alpine environment. It’s a memorable chance to feel the fresh snow and take in breathtaking panoramic views up close.
Yes, the Southern Glacier Helicopter Tour extends its scenic flight beyond solely glacial views. You will witness the mysterious northern shores of Lake Wakatipu, with its deep blue waters contrasting against lush bush-covered valleys. The tour also provides unparalleled aerial views of the magnificent Mt. Aspiring, showcasing its grandeur within the broader New Zealand alpine landscape.
The Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour typically includes a scenic helicopter flight from Queenstown, offering dramatic aerial views of the Southern Alps, Aspiring National Park, and various glaciers. A significant highlight is usually a snow landing on a glacier, allowing for a unique exploration of the alpine environment. Comprehensive safety briefings and expert pilot commentary on the geology and sights are also integral parts of the experience.
For the Southern Glacier Experience Helicopter Tour, it's recommended to wear comfortable layers, as temperatures can vary between the helicopter cabin and the snow landing site. Bring sunglasses to protect against glare, and a camera with plenty of storage for capturing the stunning scenery. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are advisable, especially for the snow landing portion.
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