heli tours mt cook

• Mt Cook Experiences

Mt Cook 360

• Testimonials

MT COOK EXPERIENCES

WHAT COULD BE BETTER THIS SUMMER THEN ESCAPING THE EVERYDAY WITH ONE OF OUR INFLITE EXPERIENCES?

Treat yourself and a special someone to a scenic flight up the stunning Tasman Valley, fly in and hike or climb on a glacier in New Zealand’s big mountain country, or experience the ultimate in alpine adventures with our World Exclusive tour.

Enjoy the expansive icelands and breath-taking clean glaciers from the comfort of your luxurious helicopter or ski plane. These scenic tours sweep you over the best alpine views New Zealand has to offer.

Flight lengths range from a 10 minute overview to 90 minutes of witnessing all the hidden gems of Aoraki Mt Cook and Westland National Park featuring two glacier landings.

Aoraki Mount Cook crowns the Southern Alps, an icy stretch on the east coast of the South Island. Other popular tourist destinations in New Zealand’s year-round winter wonderland include Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier.

INFLITE is proudly Qualmark Gold – recognised by  Tourism New Zealand  as being amongst the very best operators in New Zealand.

ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES

The ultimate alpine experience - $479.

Fly in a ski plane and a helicopter on the same day for an unforgettable experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Enjoy a scenic adventure that includes a glacier snow landing on the Tasman Glacier!

SKI PLANE & HELICOPTER

MT COOK AIRPORT

THE ULTIMATE ALPINE EXPERIENCE – $479

Highlights:.

• Experience spectacular views from above in a ski plane and a helicopter • Land on New Zealand’s longest glacier – the Tasman Glacier • Enjoy beautiful views of the Tasman Terminal Lake, Grand Plateau, Hochstetter Icefall and cloud-piercing Aoraki/Mt Cook

Includes glacier / snow landing. Experience duration is approximately 45 minutes

Departs from Mount Cook Airport

DESCRIPTION:

Fly in a skiplane and a helicopter on the same day for an unforgettable experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Enjoy a scenic adventure that includes a glacier snow landing.

From take-off to landing, you will enjoy spectacular views! Fly up the Tasman Valley over the breathtaking blue glacier lake. See the Hochstetter Icefall and the cloud-piercing Aoraki/Mount Cook before landing on the upper snowfields of the Tasman Glacier. Take time to enjoy this unique alpine environment before swapping aircraft and returning to Mount Cook Airport.

These mountains are covered in snow and ice all year round, and the aircraft fully shuts down on landing. You’ll also see Tasman Terminal Lake, Grand Plateau, Plateau Hut, as well as the full length of the Tasman Glacier.

CHILDREN & INFANTS:

Ages 0-12 years are charged children’s price, 12 years and older require an adult priced ticket.

INFANTS:  The Civil Aviation Authority stipulates that we operate our aircraft in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines, one of these guidelines is that there is maximum number of passengers allowed on the aircraft, adult, child or infant. Therefore, when an infant is booked on our flights and sits on the lap of a caregiver, we are required to leave a seat free for this infant, thus the total maximum number of passengers remains the same. This is why you will see a charge for infants.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Subject to Availability

Check Availability

Mt cook 360 from mt cook airport - $479.

Experience the best value flight in the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Get aboard the Mt Cook 360 and see for yourself the highest peaks and the longest glaciers that NZ has to offer.

MOUNT COOK AIRPORT

MT COOK 360 FROM MT COOK AIRPORT – $479

A very special flight circumnavigating mt cook..

This flight leaves from the Mt Cook Airport, a 5 minute drive from the Mt Cook village. If you are coming up to Mt Cook and are enjoying all that the surrounding area has to offer, then this flight is for you.

This is a 45 minute flight that encompasses all the main geographic features in the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park by circumnavigating Mt Cook, our highest peak at 12,349 ft.  Mt Cook is the centre of the national park and this circular flight takes in all the iconic geographic features that this region of NZ has to offer.

You will see the longest glacier in NZ, the Tasman, on the eastern side of the main divide, we will then cross the main divide to the West Coast and take in the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.  We will circle back onto the eastern side of the southern alps into the Hooker Valley before returning back into the Tasman valley to land back where we started.

This is a fantastic flight that condenses the best of NZ’s scenery into an unforgettable experience. We look forward to showing you!

SKI THE TASMAN - $1,400

Ski The Tasman provides the ultimate ski experience on New Zealand’s longest glacier. With your expert professional guide, you will fly deep into the glaciated mountains of Mt Cook National Park and explore the Tasman Glacier.

PRICE $1,400

SKI THE TASMAN – $1,400

Fully immerse yourself in the New Zealand Southern Alps and explore the incredible ice formations and caverns of the Tasman Glacier.

Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters have teamed up with local guiding companies to provide unique alpine adventures packages to suit your taste and abilities.

This incredible day combines the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, with the once-in-a-lifetime experience of actually skiing on the famous Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Our trips are open for skiers and boarders, and side adventures include visits to the ice caves and natural ice features during the ski down. The ski runs are wide and long (8-10kms per run!), similar to blue runs, and perfect for a family adventure and introduction to the backcountry. Minimum age of 10yrs required for children. Flight transfers, ski guides, and safety equipment are all included in our trips. Lunches and ski gear can be ordered at additional cost in advance with us prior to your ski date. A great winter adventure awaits and we hope to see you soon on the Tasman!

Available:  Operates mid-June to mid-October when powder is more common. Duration: 6 hours (approximately)

THE GRAND CIRCLE - $699

55 minute Ski Plane or Helicopter flight through the Aoraki Mt Cook and Westland National Parks. With snow landings on either the Fox, Franz Josef or Tasman Glaciers, this is the ultimate South Island scenic experience.

SKI PLANE OR HELICOPTER

THE GRAND CIRCLE – $699

• Beautiful views right from take off • Tasman Terminal Lake • Mt Cook, Mt Tasman and Mt Sefton • Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers • Stunning views of the West Coast of New Zealand • Full length of the Tasman Glacier • Hochstetter Icefall, Grand Plateau and Plateau Hut • Snow/ice all year round

The ultimate way to see the Southern Alps. Traverse the Main Divide to the West Coast and view the breath-taking landscape of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Track north along the Tasman Sea before recrossing the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the Tasman Glacier.

Enjoy the stunning views of the Mt Cook National Park as you track south down the Tasman. Fly through the Grand Plateau and the Hochsteter Icefall as you pass under the east face of Aoraki Mt Cook before descending over the Tasman Terminal Lake.

Ski Plane – minimum 2 adults Helicopter – minimum 4 adults

Alpine and Glacier Landings

Tasman taster - $329.

Experience this 25 minute helicopter scenic through the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Beautiful scenic flight up the Tasman Valley with an alpine landing amongst the peaks of the Southern Alps.

TASMAN TASTER – $329

Explore the valleys and peaks of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Fly over the Tasman Terminal Lake before landing on the beautiful ice of the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With exceptional views of Aoraki Mt Cook and the surrounding snow capped mountain ranges right from take off, you will be captivated throughout the entire flight.

Enjoy the comfort, safety and performance of our Squirrel Helicopters. Our pilots offer informative and interesting commentary throughout the flight to ensure you receive the best possible experience. Experience duration is approximately 25 minutes

GLACIER HIGHLIGHTS - 45 MIN SCENIC - $599

Enjoy this 45 minute Ski Plane or Helicopter scenic experience through Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Breathtaking views from the moment you’re airborne. Experience everything this spectacular National Park has to offer.

45 MINUTE EXPERIENCE

GLACIER HIGHLIGHTS – 45 MIN SCENIC – $599

Experience everything Mt Cook National Park has to offer.  Be captivated by the rugged mountain terrain, and ever changing glacial landscape of the Southern Alps. Fly over the Tasman Terminal Lake and discover the stunning ice formations of the Hochstetter Icefall as you fly beneath the east face of Aoraki Mt Cook. Land in the upper reaches of the Tasman Glacier and enjoy the natural quiet of the magnificent Southern Alps.

Choose between flying in on either a Ski Plane or Helicopter. Departs from Mt Cook Airport.

Experience duration is approximately 45 minutes

Mt Cook Glacier Guiding

The wigley: top of the tasman glacier hike - $799.

Equipped with snowshoes or crampons, walking poles, harness and other equipment, you are ready to explore ice formations in this ever-changing environment; you’re in the heart and birthplace of New Zealand mountaineering.

5 HOURS APPROX

THE WIGLEY: TOP OF THE TASMAN GLACIER HIKE – $799

Your adventure starts with a scenic flight into the Tasman Glacier, with views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and the surrounding snow-capped mountains that form the Southern Alps. Years of experience and exploration of the glacier by your guide has resulted in extensive local knowledge allowing you to explore the hidden gems of the Tasman Glacier.

Mt Cook Glacier Guiding  offer you the highest level of safety and all guides are certified to guide you on the glacier through the internationally recognised New Zealand Mountain Guides Association.

Your party will picked up from the glacier by Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters for another captivating scenic flight and your safe return to the Mount Cook Airport. Available :   all year round Duration:   5 hours (approximately) Cost includes:  Two scenic flights, guide, quality leather boots, socks, gators, snow shoes and/or crampons, harness (if required), walking poles, jacket and over-trousers, gloves Availability : All Year Round;

To book or make enquiries please visit Mt Cook Glacier Guiding at:  www.mtcookguides.co.nz/book-now

EXPERIENCE COUNTS

Mt Cook Glacier Guiding is a joint venture between leading aviation operators Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters by INFLITE and glacier guiding professionals Fox Glacier Guiding.

THE ADVENTURER: TASMAN GLACIER HELI-HIKING - $749

Experience the adventure of Heli Hiking the Tasman Glacier. Fly in to your drop off point on a remote part of the glacier, exploring where nature’s forces create glaciated features, incredible ice formations and caverns of the Tasman Glacier.

3 HOURS APPROX

THE ADVENTURER: TASMAN GLACIER HELI-HIKING – $749

Your adventure starts with a scenic flight into the Tasman Glacier, with views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and the surrounding snow-capped mountains that form the Southern Alps. From there, explore the incredible Tasman Glacier on this Heli Hiking experience.

Mt Cook Glacier Guiding  offer you the highest level of safety and all  guides are certified to guide you on the glacier through the internationally recognised New Zealand Mountain Guides Association. Years of experience and exploration of the glacier by your guide has resulted in extensive local knowledge allowing you to explore the hidden gems of the Tasman Glacier.

Your hiking party will picked up from the glacier by Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters for another captivating scenic flight and your safe return to the Mount Cook Airport. Available :   all year round Duration:   3 hours (approximately) Cost includes:  Two scenic flights, guide, quality leather boots, socks, gators, snow shoes, harness (if required), walking poles, jacket and over-trousers, gloves

To book or make enquiries please visit Mt Cook Glacier Guiding  at:  www.mtcookguides.co.nz/book-now

Mt Cook Glacier Guiding is a joint venture between leading aviation operators Mt Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters by INFLITE and glacier guiding professionals Fox Glacier Guiding.

THE COOL CLIMBER: TASMAN GLACIER ICE CLIMBING - $950

Feeling adventurous? Come ice climbing in New Zealand’s big alpine environment!

8 HOURS APPROX

THE COOL CLIMBER: TASMAN GLACIER ICE CLIMBING – $950

Your Ice Climbing party will picked up from the glacier by Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters for another captivating scenic flight and your safe return to the Mount Cook Airport.

Price: $950.00 Available:   all year round Duration:   8 hours (approximately) Child Age:  Minimum age is 13 years (An adult must accompany young people 13-16 years) Cost includes:  2 scenic flights, guide, specialised mountaineering boots, climbing boots, socks, gators, crampons, ice axes, technical gear, walking poles, jacket and over-trousers, gloves, special backpacks

EXPERIENCE COUNTS Mt Cook Glacier Guiding is a joint venture between leading aviation operators Mt Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters by INFLITE and glacier guiding professionals Fox Glacier Guiding.

Mountain Activities

A2o - alps 2 ocean cycle trail heli bike transfer.

We can fly you and your bike to the official start of The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, which is only a short flight from our Aoraki/Mt Cook Airport base.

A2O – ALPS 2 OCEAN CYCLE TRAIL HELI BIKE TRANSFER – $960

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail starts at the White Horse Hill Campground, which is 2km north of Mt Cook Village. From here, a 7.2km off-road trail takes you to Mount Cook Airport [8km], where riders will need to make a short helicopter flight across the Tasman River to Tasman Point.

Travelling in a helicopter across a glacially-fed braided river with New Zealand’s highest mountain in view is a must do.

Minimum 4 people

The helicopter can carry up to 6 passengers at a time (depending on weight limits).

The terrain is easy to moderate (blue runs), and the pace is relaxed. With 2 ski runs included in the Ski The Tasman package, Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters will fly your ski party into the top of the Tasman Glacier. We will be there to provide the re-run before you enjoy lunch on the glacier and your final ski run exploring a new part of the Tasman Glacier.

Photography by Alpine Guides.

Available  :  1 July to 30 September every year. Duration:    6 hours (approximately)

PICNIC AMONGST THE PEAKS - $3999

With our Picnic on the Peak Tour you can enjoy a once in a lifetime experience. This flight option gives you the chance to land on the snow covered glacier aboard your private ski plane.

PRICE $3999

PICNIC AMONGST THE PEAKS – $3999

• Beautiful views right from take off • Tasman Terminal Lake • Mt Cook and Mt Tasman • Hochstetter Icefall • Grand Plateau and Plateau Hut • Ski Plane landing in the snowfields • Picnic on the glacier • Snow/ice all year round

Our scenic flights have just gotten better! Indulge in the silent serenity of the Southern Alps with a private exclusive ski plane flight with glacier landing and a private picnic. You will enjoy the scenic beauty of Mount Cook and the national park surrounding it from take-off to landing. The snow-capped mountains, the bright blue of the glacier lake and the lush greens of the vegetation are just a few of the magnificent sights you will experience as you fly through the Southern Alps.

After you enjoy the beauty of the park from the air we will land the aircraft on one of the many glaciers that can be found in the mountains. While landed on the glacier our pilot will set up a private picnic on the snow for you to enjoy while you take in the breath taking views around you. After you have had your fill of food and mountain air your private ski plane will fly you towards Mount Cook to enjoy a better view of the highest peak in New Zealand.  After this incredible 90 minute journey you will return to the Mount Cook airport.

We can’t wait to share this experience with you.

GLACIER FREEFALL TRIFECTA - SKI PLANE, HELI & SKYDIVE EXPERIENCE COMBO

This world exclusive tour will leave you speechless. Fly in a ski plane and a helicopter on the same day and free-fall your way around the Southern Alps of New Zealand for an unforgettable experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Enjoy a scenic adventure that includes a glacier snow landing on the Tasman Glacier! - the perfect combination of adrenaline and picturesque scenery.

3.5 HOURS (NOT INCLUDING 30 MINUTE TRAVEL BETWEEN LOCATIONS)

SKYDIVE, HELICOPTER, SKI PLANE

DEPARTS FROM PUKAKI AIRPORT (30 MINUTES FROM MT. COOK AIRPORT)

PRICE FROM $688

GLACIER FREEFALL TRIFECTA – SKI PLANE, HELI & SKYDIVE EXPERIENCE COMBO

Description.

This world exclusive tour will leave you speechless. Fly in a ski plane and a helicopter on the same day and free-fall your way around the Southern Alps of New Zealand for an unforgettable experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Enjoy a scenic adventure that includes a glacier snow landing on the Tasman Glacier! – the perfect combination of adrenaline and picturesque scenery.

WORLD EXCLUSIVE

• Helicopter flight including landing or taking off on the Tasman Glacier – NZ’s Longest Glacier
• Departs from Mt. Cook Airport
• Ski Plane flight – NZ’s only Ski Planes
• Fly high in the Skydive plane – strapped to your tandem master
• Skydive from up to 15,000ft
• Departs from Pukaki Airport – 30 Minutes from Mt. Cook Airport

Scenic Tours

This is a 30 minute flight that encompasses all the main geographic features in the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park by circumnavigating Mt Cook, our highest peak at 12,349 ft.  Mt Cook is the centre of the national park and this circular flight takes in all the iconic geographic features that this region of NZ has to offer.

Ultimate Experiences

Fly in with us and explore, hike or climb on a glacier in New Zealand’s big mountain country!

(NOT INCLUDING 30 MINUTE TRAVEL BETWEEN LOCATIONS)

(30 MINUTES FROM MT. COOK AIRPORT)

DEPOSIT AND CANCELLATION INFORMATION

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN’T FLY DUE TO BAD WEATHER?

Rest assured that tours booked directly with us are fully refundable if there is a cancellation due to the weather.

We will do our best to work with you to reschedule your flight to suit your travel plans.

• ONLINE PAYMENT
• TERMS & CONDITIONS

GET IN TOUCH

09 415 3550 [email protected]

234 Rosedale Road, Albany, Auckland

Entrance opposite Henry Rose Place PO Box 300 – 460, Albany, Auckland, 0752, New Zealand

• Includes a glacier landing

The Grand Circle

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 55 Minutes
• Calendar Availability: 7 days a week
• Check Bubble Helicopter or Ski Plane: We're the only place in the Southern Hemisphere where you get to choose. The choice is yours!

The ultimate Southern Alps aerial tour

This Mount Cook helicopter tour or ski plane adventure is the ultimate way to see the Southern Alps. Traverse the Main Divide to the West Coast and view the magnificent landscape of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Track north along the Tasman Sea before recrossing the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to land on the Tasman Glacier.

Enjoy the stunning views of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park as you track south down the Tasman. Fly through the Grand Plateau and the Hochstetter Icefall as you pass under the east face of Aoraki Mt Cook before descending over the Tasman Terminal Lake.

Reserve your choice of helicopter or ski plane online for an unforgettable aerial experience.

Highlights:

• Beautiful views right from takeoff
• Tasman Terminal Lake
• Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Tasman, and Mt Sefton
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
• Stunning views of the West Coast of New Zealand
• Full length of the Tasman Glacier
• Hochstetter Icefall, Grand Plateau and Plateau Hut
• Snow/ice all year round
• Total duration includes 10-15min landing in the Tasman Glacier

10/10 – There is no scenic flight in New Zealand which matches the awesomeness of this 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. – April 2021

INFANTS: The Civil Aviation Authority stipulates that we operate our aircraft in line with the manufacturers guidelines, one of these guidelines is that there is maximum number of passengers allowed on the aircraft, adult, child or infant. Therefore when an infant is booked on our flights and sits on the lap of a caregiver we are required to leave a seat free for this infant, thus the total maximum number of passengers remains the same. This is why you will see a charge for infants.

Related Mt Cook Experiences

• WORLD EXCLUSIVE
• Clock 45 minutes

Ultimate Alpine Experience

Fly in a ski plane or helicopter to enjoy an unforgettable experience of Aoraki/Mount Cook! One aircraft will take you for your Tasman Glacier landing and an alternative aircraft will be your return flight back to the airport.

• Clock 6 hours

Ski The Tasman

Enjoy complete immersion in the Southern Alps, exploring the incredible ice formations of the Tasman Glacier as you ski down New Zealand’s longest glacier, transported by the only Ski Plane operator in the Southern Hemisphere.

• Intro into backcountry skiing
• Unique NZ Skiing adventure for all ages & abilities
• Explore Ice Caves/Seracs
• Bucket List Item

THE 10 BEST Mt. Cook Village Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours in mt. cook village.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Private Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour

2. Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight

3. Mt Cook Tour & Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo from Queenstown

4. 45-Minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook

5. 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter

6. Mount Cook Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight

7. Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight

8. New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

9. Glentanner High Country Heli Hike

10. 5 Day South Island Circut: Trains, Glaciers and Milford Sound from Christchurch

11. Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance - 50mins

12. Mount Cook Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight

13. Mt Cook Experience

14. PRIVATE: Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Flight - 50mins

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Glacier Explorer - 1 Glacier with Snow Landing - 25min

Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Fox and Franz Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Twin Glacier Franz and Fox, snow landing (allow 30 mins - departing Franz Josef)

Franz Josef Glacier and snow landing (allow 20 minutes - departs Franz Josef)

Mt Cook and Fox Glacier with snow landing (allow 30 mins - departs Fox Glacier)

Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight departing Fox Glacier

Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef

Fox Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

The GRAND TOUR, snow landing (allow 40 minutes - departing Franz Josef)

Fox and Franz Josef Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight from Fox Glacier

Wilderness Adventure Including Scenic flight Self-guided Hike and Jet Boat Ride

Fox Glacier and Mount Cook Helicopter Flight

Fox Glacier and snow landing (allow 20 minutes - departs Fox Glacier)

Fox Glacier Neve Discoverer Helicopter Flight

What travellers are saying.

• 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour
• Mount Cook Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight
• Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight
• Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight
• Tasman Experience and Skydive | Combo

Scenic Flight Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate NZ$750 pp

• Mountain Landings 1
• Duration 50min
• Cost 750 pp
• Depart from Aoraki/Mt Cook

Our Signature Aoraki/Mt Cook Helicopter experience – no other trip compares to this!

This is it! – if you have dreamt of truly experiencing the ultimate helicopter tour of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, then this signature helicopter flight will tick every box.

• Circle the summit of Aotearoa/New Zealand’s highest mountain – Aoraki/Mt Cook
• Experience a snow landing on the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier
• Discover motu huka (icebergs) on the Tasman Terminal Lake
• View blue ice, hanging glaciers and the world-famous West Coast glaciers of Fox & Franz Josef
• Gaze across to both the East & West coastlines of New Zealand’s South Island at the same time on a clear day!
• Enjoy coastal views of New Zealand’s South Island

This glacier helicopter tour is the ultimate way to experience and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Mt Cook maunga (mountains).

You will experience a snow landing high up on the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier and stand amongst the “natural silence” of this very special place. Feel as free as a bird as you gaze across the horizon and catch views of the incredible West Coast and wild Tasman Sea.

Your last stop is the flight over the carved icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake on your return flight before touching base again at our Southern Lakes Helicopters HQ.

In 50 minutes, you will have experienced the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park at its finest. Life really doesn’t get any better than this!

Please note all prices listed are based on sharing with others. If you would prefer to book an exclusive flight, please let us know at the time of booking and we will confirm the cost with you.

• Terms and conditions

Helicopter-travels.com

Best helicopter tours

Mount Cook helicopter tours – tickets, prices, timings

Mount Cook dominates the Southern Alps mountain range that divides New Zealand’s South Island into east and west.

People of New Zealand often refer to Mount Cook as Aoraki or ‘the cloud piercer.’

The best way to explore Mount Cook National Park’s towering mountains, vast glaciers, and remote snowfields is by helicopter tour.

Tourists love these heli tours because of the incredible mountain views and the opportunity for a snow landing on the Tasman Glacier .

In this article, we share everything you must know before booking a Mount Cook helicopter tour.

Top Mount Cook helicopter tours

# Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight # Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour

# 45-Minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook

Table of contents

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Mt Cook helicopter rides come in many flavors. 

We present below our favorite six heli ours, which are popular with vacationers in this part of New Zealand.

The 20-minute Alpine Vista heli tour in Mount Cook is the cheapest air tour of its kind.

If you want to experience the thrill of a helicopter flight and snow landing, this is the perfect tour departing from Mount Cook township.

During the flight, you will see fantastic visuals of the Ben Ohau Mountain Range and then have a 10-minute snow landing in the fresh Alpine air.

Tour Operator:  The Helicopter Line

Cost of the tour

Adult ticket (15+ years): US$197 Child ticket (4 to 14 years): US$138 Infant ticket (up to 3 years): US$98

If you want the same flight to be a little longer, check out the Alpine Explorer Helicopter Flight , where the duration of the helicopter flight is 35 minutes.

This 45-minute Mount Cook air trip is fascinating because you get to experience both a helicopter ride and a ski plane. 

Get spectacular aerial views of the Mount Cook National Park.

You go up the Tasman Valley over the Blue Glacier Lake to see the Hochstetter Icefall and the Aoraki.

Land on the upper snowfields of the Tasman Glacier, take pictures, and fresh air.

Once the pilot says it is time to go, you swap the flying machine and return. 

Tour Operator:  Inflite Ski Planes Limited

Adult ticket (13+ years): US$281 Child ticket (up to 12 years): US$251

The highlight of this 40-minute helicopter tour in Mount Cook is the Tasman Glacier.

You marvel at the Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki/ Mount Cook and then do an Alpine landing in the snow for 5 to 10 minutes. 

You then fly by the Burnett Mountains and also take in panoramic views of the expansive Mackenzie Basin. 

Adult ticket (15+ years): US$347 Child ticket (4 to 14 years): US$243 Infant ticket (up to 3 years): US$173

You must opt for the 45-minute Glacier Highlights helicopter tour from Mount Cook if you want to experience everything New Zealand’s highest mountain has to offer.

You get to see Mount Cook, soar over the Tasman Terminal Lake, swoop past the Hochstetter Icefall, and finally touch down on the Tasman Glacier. 

Adult ticket (15+ years): US$351 Child ticket (4 to 14 years): US$322 Infant ticket (up to 3 years): Free entry

The 55-minute Grand Circle helicopter tour over Mount Cook is the ultimate Southern Alps aerial tour. 

You start with the majestic landscape of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. 

Then, you move North along the Tasman Sea before recrossing the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the Tasman Glacier.

After enjoying the beautiful views of Aoraki Mountain, you fly past the Grand Plateau and the Hochstetter Icefall.

Pass under the East face of Aoraki Mt Cook for ten minutes of snow landing on Tasman Terminal Lake.

You can choose if you want this to be a helicopter tour or a ski plane adventure. 

Adult ticket (13+ years): US$410 Child ticket (4 to 12 years): US$377 Infant ticket (up to 3 years): Free entry

During this 55-minute Mount Cook heli tour, you see the mighty three – Mount Cook, Franz Josef Glacier & Fox Glacier.

During the trip, you also enjoy aerial views of the Tasman Glacier Lake and the stunning Tasman Glacier itself.

Midway through the trip, you land on the snow with the indomitable Aoraki/Mount Cook in front of you.

Adult ticket (15+ years): US$457 Child ticket (4 to 14 years): US$320 Infant ticket (up to 3 years): US$228

Mount Cook helped Sir Edmund Hillary develop his climbing skills in preparation for the conquest of Everest.

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A Mount Cook heli tour is a perfect opportunity to get stunning visuals of snow-capped mountains and land on a glacier without the need for expert mountaineering skills.

Check out this video to know what to expect when you sit in a chopper and fly over New Zealand’s highest mountain.

The  cheapest helicopter ride over Mount Cook will cost approximately US$197 per person.

At the higher end is the Mount Cook and Glaciers Helicopter Flight, the tickets of which can go up to US$457 per person.

It is also the most popular tour over the mountain range.

Helicopter rides can be a costly affair.

So, it is important to know the tour costs in advance to plan your trip and factor it in with other considerations.

But there is no doubt that a Mount Cook heli tour will be an unforgettable activity in your life.

Mount Cook helicopter tours offer a hotel pickup facility.

Alternatively, you can also reach directly to the meeting point.

All helicopter tours organized by “The Helicopter Line” take off from Glentanner Park.

This includes the Mount Cook and Glaciers helicopter flight , Mount Cook Mountains High Helicopter Flight , and the Mount Cook Alpine Vista helicopter flight .

Address: Glentanner Park, State Highway 80, Glentanner 7999, New Zealand. Get directions

All helicopter tours organized by ” Inflite Ski Planes Limited” depart from Mount Cook Airport.

This includes the Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour , Glacier Highlights heli tour from Mount Cook , and the  Grand Circle heli ride in Mount Cook .

Address: Mount Cook Road, Canterbury 7999, New Zealand. Get directions

Note: The airport is located 3 minutes prior to Aoraki Mount Cook Village on State Highway 80.

Both heliports are near public transportation.

The tours end back at the meeting point.

There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.

Mount Cook heli tours run all days of the week.

Mount Cook and Glaciers Helicopter Flight takes off at 11.30 am and 3 pm.

40-minute helicopter tour in Mount Cook operates at 10.30 am, 2 pm, and 4 pm.

45-minute Mount Cook air trip combo departs at 10.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Glacier Highlights helicopter tour from Mount Cook takes place at 8.30 am, 3.30 pm, and 4.30 pm.

Grand Circle helicopter tour in Mount Cook flies at 8.30 am, 3.30 pm, and 4.30 pm.

Alpine Vista Helicopter Tour takes off at 9.30 pm, 1 pm, and 4 pm.

Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable helicopter rides over Mount Cook.

A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, they will be canceled.

Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.

Availability of tours cannot be checked without making a booking. Credit cards will only be charged upon confirmation of show availability

A valid photo ID is required.

No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.

Check in at least 30 minutes early.

Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.

Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.

Mount Cook heli tours do not include food and drinks unless stated otherwise.

Photos for souvenirs and items of a personal nature are excluded from your ticket.

Your ticket price is also not inclusive of gratuities.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date. 

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.

No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.

Helicopter tours require good weather. 

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

Related Reading

# Helicopter tours to Milford Sound # Helicopter tours from Queenstown #  Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tours

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# How to prepare for first helicopter flight # What to wear for helicopter tour? # How to overcome fear of flying? #  Why helicopter tours are fun #  FAQs about Helicopter tours #  Helicopter tour – how long to wait after scuba diving?

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Mt Cook Tour / Helicopter Experience

A day tour from Queenstown to Mt Cook including a scenic helicopter flight at Mt Cook Village.

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• Scenic drive to Aoraki Mt Cook

An up close view of the mighty Aoraki Mt Cook

Travel with Altitude Tours to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and join the team at INFLITE for their 25-minute Tasman Taster helicopter flight, with additional time to explore Mt Cook Village.

Your Adventure Begins

Start your day by meeting our friendly local guide at your Queenstown accommodation or nearby. You’ll travel in style in a premium Mercedes van designed for touring with only 16 seats onboard. As we depart Queenstown, the first leg of our journey takes us through the Central Otago wine regions of Gibbston and Cromwell. We then cross the dramatic Lindis Pass before making a brief stop in Omarama for refreshments and an opportunity to purchase lunch/snacks.

Welcome to Mackenzie Country

The scenery transforms as we enter Mackenzie Country, and our guide will entertain you with stories and interesting facts as we trace the edge of the Southern Alps. Along the way, we’ll pass a network of lakes and canals near Twizel, renowned for its fishing of fresh Mt Cook Alpine salmon. Once we veer off the main road, we’ll follow the stunning bright blue waters of Lake Pukaki before arriving at Mt Cook Village.

Mount Cook Adventure &  Helicopter Flight

Welcome to Mt Cook! Arriving at approximately 12 pm, your guide will transport you to Mt Cook Airport where you will check in with Mt Cook Skiplanes & Helicopters for their Tasman Taster flight. You will have a quick safety briefing before taking to the skies on a unique 25-minute scenic flight in one of their state-of-the-art helicopters. Fly over the Tasman Lake before a stunning alpine landing on Brass Peak or Liebig Dome within the National Park. Your helicopter will briefly shut down where you’ll be able to disembark for some stunning photos as you look at the soaring peaks of Mt Cook above you. Reboard the helicopter for take-off as you make your way back to Mt Cook Airport and have additional free time to enjoy Mt Cook Village.

All guests receive complimentary access to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. This museum and theatre offer insights into Mt Cook’s unique history and the adventures of one of New Zealand’s most famed explorers.

The Journey Back

At approximately 3:30pm, you will rejoin our guide and van to commence the return journey to Queenstown. Sit back, relax, and take in the views. This day tour spans approximately 12 hours, and our smaller vehicles and attentive guide ensure your comfort and entertainment throughout the journey.

Please note: the Tasman Taster scenic flight is subject to availability at the time of booking and our team will reconfirm with you once your booking is confirmed. This is a weather-dependent activity.

Tour Overview.

Heli scenic, the best window seat in new zealand..

Travel in INFLITE’s state-of-the-art helicopters and take in the views of New Zealand’s tallest peak and the national park.

Travel in style

Our Mercedes vans are fully equipped with complimentary wifi and panoramic windows for superior viewing so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Mt Cook Tour FAQ's

How long does the mt cook tour take.

The full-day trip takes approximately 12 hours from Queenstown. This allows us to make plenty of stops en route to ensure you enjoy the journey, with 3.5 hours in Mount Cook Village. During this time you will join a 25-minute scenic helicopter flight, with additional free time in Mt Cook to enjoy the village.

What activities are included?

This package includes the Tasman Taster 25-minute scenic helicopter flight.

The departure time of the flight can vary depending on availability, however, we intend to book this shortly after arriving into the national park, with the remaining time free to enjoy Mt Cook Village.

What are the important things to know about the scenic flight?

Your Altitude Tours guide will transport you to the Mt Cook Airport where you will check in for your scenic flight with Mt Cook Ski Planes & helicopters, brought to you by INFLITE.

The INFLITE team will provide a safety briefing before taking you on a 25-minute scenic helicopter flight.

Please allow extra time for check-in and safety briefing.

Individual weights are required for the helicopter company at the time of booking.

What do I need to bring with me and wear on this day tour?

• An extra warm layer of clothing
• Sunblock & sunglasses
• Waterproof jacket
• Suitable walking shoes

What do you recommend we do for lunch?

This experience will take up approximately 1 hour of your total free time in Mt Cook Village.

You are welcome to use this extra free time to get lunch in the village, or alternatively, we recommend purchasing food in Omarama (a stop we make on the way from Queenstown) or bringing food from Queenstown at the start of the day.

From Queenstown to Mt Cook what stops will we make along the drive?

We don’t want to give too much away! The drive from Queenstown to Mt Cook is stunning and there are plenty of scenic stops enroute, your guide knows the best spots and will choose these on the day.

Where do you pick up and drop off from in Queenstown?

We pick up from select Queenstown hotels and the main bus stop routes in Queenstown town centre and along Frankton Road. When booking, type in your accommodation and it will suggest the closest bus stop. If it doesn’t come up just check in with us and we’ll let you know where is closest for you!

What happens in the case of poor weather?

As this is a weather-dependent tour, if there is a risk of adverse weather conditions that will impact the operation of the tour, you will be contacted the day prior to your trip to explore alternative options.

There may be a risk of the weather coming in on the day, and your guide will keep you updated, if needed.

Why can't I reserve a specific seat on the van?

Due to this being one of our most popular tours and wanting to be fair to all who join us we do not offer reserved seating. If you have a request we will do our best to accommodate but we cannot guarantee.

HUMBLE BRAGS

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Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

Lake Pukaki

Sir Edmund Hillary Statue

Mt Cook Tour & Heli Hike Combo from Queenstown

43 Camp Street , Tarras , New Zealand .

Explore the Mt Cook area & Tasman Glacier. On this one-day combo tour you will see all the highlights of Mt Cook plus experience a Tasman Glacier Heli Hike.

Pricing and Conditions

Lunch at own expense. Optional Extras at additional cost.

Inclusions: small group tour, fully guided, Tasman Glacier Heli Hike including all equipment, 2 Scenic Helicopter Flights, bottled water, snacks. Terms: Tours will only run if at least 4 people have booked on the tour. Cheeky Kiwi Travel reserves the right to alter the tour due to weather or operational needs.

Within 24 hours prior to travel – 100% cancellation fee. An amendment fee of NZ$20 per booking will be charged for any bookings changed 7 days prior to travel. Within 7 days fees will be charged in accordance with the policies of other suppliers.

Highlights: • Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park • Tasman Glacier Heli Hike • Lake Pukaki • Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass and the Southern Alps • High Country Salmon Mt Cook Tour & Heli Hike Combo, this small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights of Mt Cook with an incredible Heli Hike on Tasman Glacier including two scenic helicopter flights. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

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Mt Cook Tour & Heli Hike Combo from Queenstown

Mt cook bus tour & heli hike combo from queenstown.

Mt Cook Bus Tour & Heli Hike Combo, this small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights with a guided bus tour to Mt Cook, and an incredible Heli Hike on Tasman Glacier including two scenic helicopter flights.

If you plan to embark on the Heli Hike or any other trek during your Mount Cook tour, it's advisable to bring along a light lunch or grab some food when we stop in Omarama.

Highlights:

• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
• Guided bus tour from Queenstown
• Tasman Glacier Heli Hike
• Lake Pukaki
• Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass and the Southern Alps
• High Country Salmon

1.       Queenstown - Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

2.       Kawarau Suspension Bridge – Departing Queenstown we then make our way through the Kawarau Gorge, passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

3.       Cromwell – Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines, we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this beautiful lake towards Lindis Pass.

4.       Lindis Pass – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the famous lookout at the top of the pass for an essential photo.  

5.       Omarama – While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the famous Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

6.       Lake Pukaki –Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why many Lord of the Rings scene were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

7.       Heli Hike – Next get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with a Tasman Glacier Heli Hike.  Combine the excitement of walking on New Zealand’s biggest glacier with the stunning scenic helicopter fly-bys of New Zealand’s largest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook. You will fly to your drop off point on a remote part of the glacier before beginning a guided exploration of the amazing ice formations. Follow your guide as they cut steps in the glacier, using skills handed down from NZ’s mountain pioneers. Your trip finishes with another spectacular scenic flight back to our Aoraki/Mt. Cook base where your bus guide will meet you. 

8.       High Country Salmon - Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way back to Queenstown we stop in at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

9.     Jacksons Orchard  – During summer months when the sun is still up as we get close to Queenstown we often stop at Jacksons Orchard to try or buy some delicious local fruit or real fruit ice cream.

10.     Queenstown – Sadly the tour must come to an end as we re-enter Queenstown and say our goodbyes.

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Fully Guided Bus Tour
• Tasman Glacier Heli Hike including all equipment
• 2 Scenic Helicopter Flights
• Bottled Water & Snacks

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety. With secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

For further information on luggage, pickup locations, cancellation policy etc please  read our FAQ's  at the bottom of our home page.