Product Overview

A first-hand exploration of a glacier by chopper, seeing only what experienced mountaineers can reach is a wilderness experience you’ll never forget.  

 

Product Description

From our Franz Josef Village base, you’ll fly up to the Franz Josef Glacier in the Westland National Park. You’ll land on a section of this 12km long glacier where we’ve made a daily safety assessment of the conditions on this fast-moving ice flow. Equipped with glacier boots and crampons you’ll walk for two hours amongst the ice formations and pinnacles and see first-hand the extraordinary colours of the ice-flow.  Touch the ice, breathe in the fresh air.

We team up with Franz Josef Glacier Guides who have been taking visitors over this epic icefall terrain since 1990 and can trace their heritage back 100 years. They have an immaculate safety record, rigid assessments and using quality equipment, your safety and enjoyment is taken care of.

Departure Times

8.30am & 11am

Duration

3 hour total trip time

What To Bring

Company Info

The Helicopter Line is New Zealand’s leading helicopter operating company. Formed in 1986 when 3 separate helicopter companies combined, The Helicopter Line has grown to become the largest Kiwi owned Helicopter Company in New Zealand and the largest provider of scenic flights in the country.

The Helicopter Line fleet consists predominantly of AS350 Squirrels. They are perfectly suited to scenic flights, the open plan cabin allowing for excellent views from all seats. We have an excellent record of safety and have the highest level of Civil Aviation Authority certification for scenic helicopter operations. This involves regular monitoring and auditing of all aspects of our operations.

Our professional team is dedicated to ensuring you experience the best. We have professionally trained pilots who have specialist experience flying in New Zealand’s alpine environments and all of our crew are qualified to ensure your safety, both in the air and on the ground.

Many of the scenic flight options are within New Zealand’s national parks and The Helicopter Line has a large number of concessions from the Department of Conservation, allowing flights to parts of the country which may not otherwise be accessible. This access to some of the most iconic landscapes within New Zealand is a privilege The Helicopter Line is proud to share with you.

As well as scenic flights, The Helicopter Line offers private charter rates and undertakes commercial work.

• Largest New Zealand owned helicopter company and  provider of scenic flights
• 27 years of experience operating in NZ’s unique Alpine environment
• Professionally trained staff and excellent safety record
• Fleet of AS350 squirrels, offering great viewing from every seat
• Access to unique landing areas within the National Parks