Glentanner High Country Heli Hike
5
Glentanner High Country Heli Hike
By Glentanner High Country Heli Hike
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About
Soar over the Southern Alps, take in breathtaking views during an 8 minute scenic helicopter flight and walk a trail of High Country history on the Glentanner High Country Heli Hike.
Travel somewhere new in the Aoraki Mount Cook region, away from the familiar tourist route. This guided tour grants exclusive access to private land on family-owned Glentanner Station, one of New Zealand’s most historic and iconic stations, set in one of the country’s most magnificent landscapes.
It’s a journey back through time, to the rough and rugged early days of high country farming, and further, to the ancient past when glaciers carved the land to form the spectacular Mackenzie Country.
-Approximately 3.5 hour tour (4 Hours with Check-In and Helicopter Safety Briefing)
-Scenic Helicopter flight to a landing point high on Glentanner Station land.
-Knowledgeable & friendly guide to take you along a 7KM, well-maintained, 4x4 track.
-Access our fully restored Historic Field Station and exhibition.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 15 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Hiking Poles Provided
- Home-Baked snacks are provided at the Historic Field Station stop.
- Hot tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are provided at the Historic Field Station stop.
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellent
What's not included- Proper Hiking Footwear
- Proper Clothing (depending on weather conditions)
- Start:
- 3388 Mount Cook Road, Glentanner 7999, New ZealandGuests will check in at the Glentanner Holiday Park reception desk 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 429877P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Most healthy people with "street" level fitness should enjoy this activity.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 429877P1
From
$445.00
per adult
Select date and travellers
Similar experiences
Itinerary
- 3388 Mount Cook Road, Glentanner 7999, New ZealandGuests will check in at the Glentanner Holiday Park reception desk 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
- Pass byAoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)Lake Pukaki
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Garyandalison0 contributionsGlentanner Heli HikeDefinitely one of the highlights of our tour of North and South Island. Helicopter ride over the Glentanner estate was unforgettable. We landed on a plateau and Brian our excellent guide led us on the 7 km of easy descent back to Glentanner Motorhome park. The walk had plenty of stops for conversations about the history of the area. The stop at the original(now restored) base camp illustrated well life in a bygone era. Definitely a 5 star experience.Written 19 February 2024
- Alexandre S0 contributionsAmazing trekWonderful tour! We had Brian as our guide and wow we learned so much about the area with him. The helicopter ride is smooth and fun. The trek is easy and very nice. Do this trip!Written 10 January 2024
- Freedom6014890 contributionsWonderful walk with Mt Cook and Lake Pukaki backdropWell organised with superb views and Brian was our knowledgeable (history, flora/fauna, mountains/glacers, wildlife eg Tahr) guide. Had snowed a few days before so views sensational especially on helicopter trip up to track. We had light dusting of snow at start of track which was cool however usually no snow on track and it is a pleasant walk of c 3.5hrs back down to Glentanner park. Morning tea at research huts a nice touch.Written 1 October 2023
- JimMilross0 contributionsAn immersive and unique Glentanner history lessonThis was a unique activity for this area. We had never tried something like a helicopter ride up, and then a hike down a mountain, but strongly recommend people new to the area try it. It was not physically strenuous, and amounts to a casual walk down a very well-groomed path. The walk was about 5 km on our day, as the sun sets earlier at the time we went. Our guide, Matt, was enthusiastic, passionate about the area and its history, and very knowledgeable. He made us feel welcome, and was able to accommodate our curiosity (which involved a tsunami of questions). Matt had a professional, yet approachable style, and we learned an immense amount about the area, including its indigenous, colonial, and geological history. This was a key part of our "trip of a lifetime" to New Zealand.Written 10 May 2023
- sillybird0 contributionsWhat a beautiful day!We took a short helicopter ride from the base to the top of the hike — about 1100m above sea level. We were 8 people overall, excluding our wonderful guide Matt Sutton. There were children and older people in the group, and everyone seemed to enjoy the leisurely walk down the mountain. The views were fantastic as the weather was perfect. The route down the mountain was clear and we got to hike down at our own pace. Overall, the trip was around 3.5 hours. Along the way, we were served tea and delicious cookies at the old Glentanner hut. At 700NZD for 2 people, it was quite expensive but then, no helicopter flight in New Zealand is cheap. It was a good experience as the views of Mt Cook and Lake Pukaki from up high are as good as they can get. I highly recommend this one. 👍 Get Matt as your guide.Written 6 April 2023
- Trail398041892120 contributionsAn incredible experience on a fabulously bluebird day. Matt, our guide, was very informative and friendly.We were extremely lucky with a bluebird day. We had allowed ourselves a stay at Glentanner Park for about 5 days to give us options with the weather and we struck two fantastic days. The heli-hike was the most amazing experience ever. Our guide Matt was informative and very friendly, we stopped for photos whenever we wanted. It was a gentle downhill walk back to Glentanner Park and well worth the money for such a fantastic experience.Written 5 April 2023
- Followyourdreams_L0 contributionsHelihike GlentannerWe really enjoyed this experience! First a nice short helicopter flight and then an easy walk down to Glentanner. The weather was really good and we got plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful views. Big thanks to our great guide Matt.Written 28 March 2023
- Debra P0 contributionsHeli-Hike is superbTen of us had the most terrific Glentanner heli-hike experience yesterday. Clear and helpful advice, great helicopter ride, followed by excellent guiding and stories of Glentanner from our guide Matt. It is the highlight of an awesome Mackenzie country holiday. We will be recommending this experience to friends and family.Written 21 February 2023
- Laurenoxtobyxo0 contributionsHelicopter ride in GlentannerMy friend and I loved this activity, it started with a short helicopter ride over the lake, followed by a relaxing stroll back down to Glentanner. Matt was a great leader and had lots of knowledge about Glentanner and the surrounding areas which was very interesting. I would highly recommend this activity to anyone wanting to exert minimal effort but have maximum rewards!Written 20 February 2023
- katievdl0 contributionsHighly recommend!What an awesome experience! We’ve been out to Mount Cook several times, and this was a fun new way to experience and learn about the area. Matt was a great guide - friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. We brought our 18 month son in a backpack hiking carrier, and the hike was definitely do-able even with the extra weight! Matt was really encouraging, and was happy to go at any pace. As he said, if we had to slow down, it just meant more time outdoors and on the hill :)Written 16 February 2023
- joypaterson0 contributionsHieHiking GlentannerWe had a great time. We were very lucky to have Ross be our guide. As owner of the property he was able to give a real insight into farming the high country of NZ and how to conserve the environment and the use of good farming practices. The views were magnificent and the track easy to walk. Afternoon teas wasn't bad either and very welcome.Written 13 February 2023
- Fiesta90220 contributionsBreathtaking!Loved the relaxed walk with the most stunning views! Our guide Matt was welcoming and knowledgable of the surrounding countryside. Absolutely recommendWritten 6 February 2023
- Erin K0 contributionsGreat experience!We had a great time on this hike with Matt as our guide. He was super communicative, very knowledgeable and the helicopter ride and bike were beautiful. The hut they have restored was awesome and we learned a ton about the history of the area. Highly recommend!Written 14 December 2022
- skiwi130 contributionsExcellent experience!My friends and I had a great time on this trip! The views of the mountains and lake are stunning, the hike is relaxing, the snacks were delicious, and Matt was a great guide. He was easy to communicate with while booking, had lots of information about the area, and was fun to chat with. Definitely recommend.Written 25 September 2022
- Gingaga0 contributionsBucket list experienceThe Heli- hike experience with the team at Glentanner is exhilarating. We were blessed with perfect weather & a fresh dusting of snow from the day before which provided some of the most breathtaking scenery we have ever seen. Matt is a fantastic and interesting guide with whom we were grateful to share this experience. Our pilot Troy flew us in & around the snow capped ridge lines of Mt Cook, while providing loads of knowledge about the area & even spotting some Tahr’s that were situated high up within the mountain tops. Once we landed we descended our way back down while taking our time to stop and appreciate the surroundings and to take amazing photos from vantage points otherwise inaccessible. There are many helicopter joyrides in NZ, but this is the ultimate experience. Just do it!Written 15 September 2022
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
34 reviews
Excellent
33
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Arlen F
5 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
I went on the Glentanner Heli Hike with my adult son and had a truly unforgettable and positive experience. Our guide Brian could not have been more professional, knowledgeable, and friendly, and I cannot recommend him or the trip highly enough.
After a thrilling helicopter ride over the glacial valley, we made a high country landing on Glentanner Station. We were lucky to enjoy spectacular views festooned with rainbows that included Mt Cook National Park, the glacial valley and Lake Pukaki far below. The walk back down was easy for anyone of average mobility or fitness and Brian provided an informed and interesting commentary of the station history, geology, flora and fauna of the area on stops along the way. There were beautiful scenic views the whole way down: you cannot take a bad photo. We had an afternoon tea stop at the old DCIR hut, where we greatly enjoyed Helen's famous muesli slice, before returning to the Glentanner Park Centre.
My son and I had an experience together that we will never forget. I will always treasure the memory. Zero regrets!
After a thrilling helicopter ride over the glacial valley, we made a high country landing on Glentanner Station. We were lucky to enjoy spectacular views festooned with rainbows that included Mt Cook National Park, the glacial valley and Lake Pukaki far below. The walk back down was easy for anyone of average mobility or fitness and Brian provided an informed and interesting commentary of the station history, geology, flora and fauna of the area on stops along the way. There were beautiful scenic views the whole way down: you cannot take a bad photo. We had an afternoon tea stop at the old DCIR hut, where we greatly enjoyed Helen's famous muesli slice, before returning to the Glentanner Park Centre.
My son and I had an experience together that we will never forget. I will always treasure the memory. Zero regrets!
Written 30 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Arlen! Thank you very much for your kind words, it was my pleasure taking you and your son on this experience. We had such a beautiful day and a great group of people! I am so glad you had a great experience, and we truly hope you stop by Glentanner again in the near future!
Written 1 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chris H
5 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
This tour was the high point of a four-day trip to the area. I was a tad apprehensive at the prospect of a four-hour walk (we're both superannuitants and more used to a walk in the park than a hike in the mountains) but the track was well formed and all downhill, so about right to ensure a good night's sleep without being overtaxing. This is a uniquely spectacular part of the country and a hike like this is the ideal way to experience, rather than just "see", the country. We were travelling in summer and struck a clear calm day. The helicopter ride up lake Pukaki towards Mount Cook was spectacular in itself but still felt safe and calm. Landed comfortably on top of a ridge then walked down with views all the way. Our guide Brian was considerate, personable and a fountain of knowledge about the history, geology, flora and pretty much anything else relating to the area and beyond. I'm a Kiwi and have visited the area before and will no doubt visit again. This experience has made this beautiful part of the country that much more real for me. Definitely recommended.
Written 14 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Chris! Thank you very much for your detailed review! I am very happy you enjoyed yourself on this tour! We had a really beautiful day and it was a pleasure showing you around and sharing some stories! I am glad you were able to take away an even greater appreciation for this beautiful part of the country! Come back soon!
Written 15 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
tokyoadventurer
3 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
This was certainly the highlight of the time we spent in Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, starting off with a brief, but breathtaking helicopter flight over Lake Pukaki and the surrounding valley before being dropped on the moutain above Glentanner Station. What followed was a leisurely but never dull trek down the mountain with stunning views in every direction. What made the hike really special was the commentary provided by our wonderful guide Brian, which really brought everything about the area into vivid life, from ancient geology to flora and fauna and the history of human interaction with the region.
There was even time for a cheeky beer and a delicious homemade muesli slice before we ended up back at Glentanner Station. A wonderful way to spend half a day in the national park!
There was even time for a cheeky beer and a delicious homemade muesli slice before we ended up back at Glentanner Station. A wonderful way to spend half a day in the national park!
Written 19 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for leaving a detailed review of your hike! I am so glad you enjoy the experience and that it was one of the highlights of your trip to New Zealand! Come back soon!
Written 6 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Noah N
4 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
The helicopter ride offered us breathtaking aerial views, setting the stage for an exhilarating adventure. The hike itself was pleasantly simple, suitable for all skill levels, yet it still boasted great views.
This well-organized heli hike, combined with Brian's expertise (and some funny stories), made it an unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend this heli hike for anyone seeking a unique and exhilarating outdoor adventure.
We had such a good time! Thank you Brian and the team!
This well-organized heli hike, combined with Brian's expertise (and some funny stories), made it an unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend this heli hike for anyone seeking a unique and exhilarating outdoor adventure.
We had such a good time! Thank you Brian and the team!
Written 31 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to write a review! I am glad you enjoyed my stories of the area! This is such a unique and interesting area, there are too many stories to tell! We would love to see you back in Glentanner soon! Enjoy the rest of your travels!
Written 1 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
OnAir56375938883
4 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
It was a wonderfull tour with amazing landscapes and colours you have only here. Brian our guide was a real added value to our tour by sharing with us his knowledge and passion for Tasman and Glentanner Area.
We definitly recommend this tour in familly also, our kids of 4 and 8 yrs loved it !
Thank you !
We definitly recommend this tour in familly also, our kids of 4 and 8 yrs loved it !
Thank you !
Written 29 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your 5 star review! It was my pleasure taking your family on our beautiful tour! Come back soon!
Written 6 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Adam T
London, UK18 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
Nice scenic flight to the hiking start. Brian our guide was very knowledgable and we learnt a lot about the area. Worthwhile doing even if you have been in the area before - Brian's commentary of the area and the history of the historic hut really sets this apart from other options. We were lucky with the weather and had spectacular views of not only Aoraki / Mt Cook but the surrounding area. Great experience, highly recommended.
Written 19 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Adam! Thanks again for joining us on a heli hike! It was a great day out and I'm glad you were able to learn some new things about the area during the hike! I hope the rest of your adventures in NZ were great! Come back soon!
Written 29 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Megan G
5 contributions
Sept 2022 • Friends
The Glentanner HeliHike was a highlight of our recent visit. The helicopter ride takes the hard work out of the ascent and offers great views en route. Matt, our guide, shared informative local and historical knowledge of the area and private working station we were privileged to walk on. Very scenic, even on an overcast day! Recommended, so add it to your to do list when in the Aoraki/Mt Cook area.
Written 13 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TripGuy1985
Marburg, Germany7 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
The heli ride was a very cool experience and gave us a spectacular view of the whole area. The following easy hike along the cliffside of the high country continously provided amazing views, especially when the last morning clouds around Mt Cook cleared up. Before the descent back to the valley we took a break with drinks and snacks at an authentic science station which felt very unique and exclusive. The highlight of the tour however was our very friendly tour guide Brian who taught us many cool facts about the flora and fauna and a lot more interesting stuff.
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so glad you were able to join us on this hike, it was such a beautiful day, especially with Aoraki Mount Cook emerging from the clouds while we were up in the mountains! Come back soon!!
Written 12 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nadine H
8 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
The tour was great and a really spectacular experience! We started off with a helicopter ride and the colours and view were incredible. Also I felt really safe at all times as the pilot and our guide Bryan took care of everything and explained everything in detail. The hike was not only beautiful but also really informative due to Bryan‘s very broad knowledge about the area, science, history and many different things. If you are at Glentanner, this is a must do experience for a really good price value! Thanks again for this awesome experience, I will definitely be back!
Written 26 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your review! It was a really beautiful day and I am glad you enjoyed all of the information I had to share with you! It makes me very happy to hear that this was a highlight of your Glentanner trip! Come back soon!
Written 1 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gerard O'Brien
Christchurch, New Zealand3 contributions
Oct 2024 • Solo
This is well worth doing if you have the opportunity. The helicopter ride was enjoyable with the pilot sharing information about features in the area on the way to the drop off. And the views. Simply gorgeous. Magnificent Mount Cook. The Tasman Glacier and Lake, although distant, are visible. Beautiful Lake Pukaki below, with it's magical colours. Clear water streams from melting snow mixing it with cloudy water sources from glaciers. The trek down is easy going and Brian our guide was a fantastic host and a fount of knowledge about flora, fauna, Glentanner Station and area history.
Written 7 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Gerard, thank you very much for your kind review! It was such a great day up there, I'm so glad you were able to participate!
Written 10 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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