Winter Sports
3 hours
Free cancellation
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from
$816
per adult
The Helicopter Line West Coast
The Helicopter Line West Coast
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view
About
Discover the magnificent phenomenon of the glaciers. Experienced helicopter pilots share their knowledge whilst overflying the dramatic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and snowfields, exposing extraordinary colours of ice flow, ice caves and pinnacles in this largely inaccessible alpine region. All flights feature a snow landing. Alternatively combine a scenic helicopter flight with an unforgettable guided helihike amongst the glacial ice formations with the professional and experienced Franz Josef Glacier Guides.
Tours and Tickets by The Helicopter Line West Coast
Helicopter Tours
40 minutes
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$626
per adult
Helicopter Tours
30 minutes
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$436
per adult
Helicopter Tours
30 minutes
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$457
per adult
Helicopter Tours
30 minutes
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 90% of travellers
90% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$457
per adult
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4.5
560 reviews
Excellent
447
Very good
57
Average
22
Poor
8
Terrible
27
Eric H
West Saint Paul, MN105 contributions
Feb 2020
We tried for the 40 minute flight, but weather was poor around Mt Cook, so they had to dial us back.
The company is highly professional and POLISHED. The rotate people through with an insane speed- the helicopters are only on the ground for minutes between tours. There is so much bad weather that they are constantly altering/cancelling flights. The day we were there was the first time in 3 days that they had flown and they had to cancel all flights after we landed (1pm, I think?).
It's a very cool way to quickly see both glaciers and get a fantastic perspective of the size/scale.
Note that the helicopters are 6 seaters with 2 in the front (pilot and 1 lucky passenger) and then 4 across the second row. The person that walks you out to the helipad decides who goes where based on weight, so it's up to the gods if you get a window seat or not. If you do not get a window seat, I would not say the experience is nearly as cool as you can't really look 'down' on the glaciers, but more straight ahead and straight to the sides...and it you're trying to take pics, you're reaching over the person at the window. Not bad, but might feel like a slight waste of money. And if the other people in the back are 'American-sized' (like myself), prepare to be packed in like sardines. Again, not 'bad', but maybe helps temper expectations (since it's not cheap).
The company is highly professional and POLISHED. The rotate people through with an insane speed- the helicopters are only on the ground for minutes between tours. There is so much bad weather that they are constantly altering/cancelling flights. The day we were there was the first time in 3 days that they had flown and they had to cancel all flights after we landed (1pm, I think?).
It's a very cool way to quickly see both glaciers and get a fantastic perspective of the size/scale.
Note that the helicopters are 6 seaters with 2 in the front (pilot and 1 lucky passenger) and then 4 across the second row. The person that walks you out to the helipad decides who goes where based on weight, so it's up to the gods if you get a window seat or not. If you do not get a window seat, I would not say the experience is nearly as cool as you can't really look 'down' on the glaciers, but more straight ahead and straight to the sides...and it you're trying to take pics, you're reaching over the person at the window. Not bad, but might feel like a slight waste of money. And if the other people in the back are 'American-sized' (like myself), prepare to be packed in like sardines. Again, not 'bad', but maybe helps temper expectations (since it's not cheap).
Written 3 March 2020
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.
Hi there,
Thank you for your wonderful review.
We are so thrilled you enjoyed your experience with us. We strive to provide excellent customer service and this seems to be reflected in your experience with us.
We do unfortunately have to load for weight and balance so it does therefore depend on the combined weight of all passengers in the helicopter, along with individual weights to where guests are seated.
Thank you again for your review and we wish you a safe journey home.
Kind Regards,
The Helicopter Line, West Coast.
Written 18 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul Hill
Wroughton, UK336 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
My wife and I had the pleasure of being flown over 2x New Zealand glaciers, a snow landing and fantastic view of Franz Josef from above.
We had booked the full scenic spectacular flight but the weather at Mount Cook wasn’t good enough to do that route, so we were accommodated by being taken on a slightly shorter flight.
The staff at the checkin office where very friendly / welcoming and the pilot was awesome with great commentary whilst on our flight.
I highly recommend booking prior as the weather is very changeable and even if it’s clear at sea level, it may not be up on the mountain.
We were also told that they hadn’t flown much recently due to bad weather so we were very privileged to get such a nice day to fly on despite not doing the full trip. We were given a partial refund because of this.
Well worth the money and a fantastic experience!
Thank you for making our honeymoon very special.
We had booked the full scenic spectacular flight but the weather at Mount Cook wasn’t good enough to do that route, so we were accommodated by being taken on a slightly shorter flight.
The staff at the checkin office where very friendly / welcoming and the pilot was awesome with great commentary whilst on our flight.
I highly recommend booking prior as the weather is very changeable and even if it’s clear at sea level, it may not be up on the mountain.
We were also told that they hadn’t flown much recently due to bad weather so we were very privileged to get such a nice day to fly on despite not doing the full trip. We were given a partial refund because of this.
Well worth the money and a fantastic experience!
Thank you for making our honeymoon very special.
Written 6 January 2020
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.
Hi there,
Thank you for your wonderful review.
We are so thrilled you enjoyed your experience with us and we aided in making your honeymoon special. We are pleased the weather turned on the sunshine for your trip with us and you were able to enjoy the fantastic area we live in. We love sharing our backyard with our guests.
Wishing you the best with your onward journey from the West Coast.
Kind Regards,
The Helicopter Line, West Coast
Written 15 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michelle M
14 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Our original flight was cancelled due to heavy rain, but the wonderful staff in Franz Josef rebooked us for the next day at Fox Glacier.
We arrived early the next morning for our 40 min flight, but the beautiful Belinda at the front desk was worried about the weather. She said we may be able to squeeze in a 12 min flight, and even though we were a little disappointed, we were just happy to be going up at all. Belinda kept us informed every 5 minutes about the weather with her sunny, bubbly persona. She worked very hard with trying to accommodate us, and right at the last minute the weather was good enough for a 20 min flight!
Clark was our pilot, he was amazing, and made us feel very safe and comfortable.
We can’t thank these two enough for such a beautiful experience!!
We arrived early the next morning for our 40 min flight, but the beautiful Belinda at the front desk was worried about the weather. She said we may be able to squeeze in a 12 min flight, and even though we were a little disappointed, we were just happy to be going up at all. Belinda kept us informed every 5 minutes about the weather with her sunny, bubbly persona. She worked very hard with trying to accommodate us, and right at the last minute the weather was good enough for a 20 min flight!
Clark was our pilot, he was amazing, and made us feel very safe and comfortable.
We can’t thank these two enough for such a beautiful experience!!
Written 3 March 2020
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.
Hi there,
Thank you for your amazing review. We are so thrilled we were able to fly you. We understand the disappointment of not being able to complete the full 40 minute flight. We do our best to keep guests informed about the weather as it can change in an instant here. We shall pass on your feedback to Clark and Belinda.
Wishing you all the best with the remainder of your New Zealand Adventure.
Kind Regards,
The Helicopter Line, West Coast.
Written 18 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
greenfamily12
Wellington, New Zealand14 contributions
May 2020 • Family
We had a stunning flight in perfect conditions. The special rates after Covid make this a very affordable treat. It costs us $135 each which is over a 50% discount during Queens birthday weekend. Would highly recommend this to all Kiwis looking at supporting our local economy. Thanks to Drea and Tim, friendly and great guides.
Written 29 May 2020
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.
Hi there, thank you so much for taking the time to write this kind review. We are pleased to hear that you thoroughly enjoyed your flight and amazing prices! Queens birthday weekend weather was spot on and appreciate you flying with us. Dre in the office and Tim your pilot are prime members of this team, we will make sure to pass on your kind words.
Written 12 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Heather S
Randwick, Australia8 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
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!
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!
Written 27 April 2021
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.
Wow Heather S! What a stunning photo of the Franz Josef glacier, looking all the way out to the Tasman sea. We’re very lucky to have such stunning scenery right here in New Zealand, and even luckier that we can get up close and personal with it. We’re glad you enjoyed your time with us. Thank you for taking the time to leave us a great review, we hope you enjoyed the rest of your holiday.
Kind regards,
The Helicopter Line
Written 24 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
gernita24
Auckland Central, New Zealand309 contributions
Dec 2020
I had attempted to do a heli hike many years ago that was cancelled due to bad weather so this time we stayed in Franz Josef for a few days ‘just in case’. Just as well because the weather was awful the first day and our flight was cancelled so we were booked into the next morning’s flight. Thankfully we woke to blue skies and we were soon flown up to the glacier.
Our guide was great, he helped us all put on our crampons correctly and knew lots about the environment. All the clothing and equipment you need is provided.
The helicopter flight is pretty short but gave great views along the way.
Whilst on the glacier our guide found us some little crevasses and ice tubes to climb through which was cool. We also saw the glacier fall down in places as it was warmed by the sun.
If you are wanting to do this stay for a few days to increase your chances - the weather is very changeable and rightly so, they will only fly if safe.
Our guide was great, he helped us all put on our crampons correctly and knew lots about the environment. All the clothing and equipment you need is provided.
The helicopter flight is pretty short but gave great views along the way.
Whilst on the glacier our guide found us some little crevasses and ice tubes to climb through which was cool. We also saw the glacier fall down in places as it was warmed by the sun.
If you are wanting to do this stay for a few days to increase your chances - the weather is very changeable and rightly so, they will only fly if safe.
Written 15 December 2020
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.
Kia ora.
The blue ice of the Franz Josef glacier is worth coming back for! Great idea to stay in the area a few days to get the full experience. We’re glad to hear that you were well taken care of by your guide and you got to enjoy the natural features of the glacier. Thanks for taking the time to leave us a positive review, we hope you enjoy the rest of your holiday.
Kind regards,
The Helicopter Line
Written 10 January 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lotus007
Sydney, Australia10 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Fantastic experience. I still can’t believe I saw a glacier from a helicopter! It was a beautiful day. Clouds were coming but we got full view of the glacier and had a great snow landing. Our pilot was very friendly.
None can control the weather. We were extremely lucky that we got the ride on our scheduled time. The next day there was no helicopter ride because of the weather. I would recommend having an extra day in hand for any cancellation. I booked directly with them and paid after the ride. This was great as there’s no issue with refunds. They even charge you less if the snow landing is not doable. I can’t comment on pre-paid rides.
The staff I communicated with on multiple occasions were all friendly and helpful. They were very responsive to my emails and when it was needed, they contacted me over email and phone to keep me informed.
None can control the weather. We were extremely lucky that we got the ride on our scheduled time. The next day there was no helicopter ride because of the weather. I would recommend having an extra day in hand for any cancellation. I booked directly with them and paid after the ride. This was great as there’s no issue with refunds. They even charge you less if the snow landing is not doable. I can’t comment on pre-paid rides.
The staff I communicated with on multiple occasions were all friendly and helpful. They were very responsive to my emails and when it was needed, they contacted me over email and phone to keep me informed.
Written 12 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.
Kia Ora,
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a wonderful review. We are happy to hear you enjoyed your flight with us and that our team made your experience such a good one. The weather in this region can be difficult to contend with and we are glad you were able experience the wonderful views of the West Coast. We hope to have you back again for another flight in the future. Thank you for joining us.
Written 3 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Shay
4 contributions
Mar 2021 • Friends
We did first pilots choice today and just wanna say a massive thank you to our pilot Brian absolutely accomodating & always made sure we were ok. Thanks to the rest of the staff also. Scenery was an absolute dream if it’s your first time on a copter ride. Beautiful view of arrowtown and lake wakitipu and more.. Would highly recommend and would definitely come back to support the business 😁
Written 25 March 2021
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.
Steve L
5 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
My partner and I decided at the last minute to do the 20min Franz Josef Glacier Snow Landing helicopter flight. We saw Brendan in the office and Kate went over the safety protocols and then we were off to the helipad. Our pilot Kody was touching down from a previous flight.
We boarded with another couple and we headed up Franz Josef Glacier. On top of the mountain we were able to get out and experience the snow.
It was a stunning morning and a memorable trip we will never forget.
Our pilot Kody was very informative and friendly.
Kate was a pleasure to deal with, her assistance getting us to the helipad and on board was very professional as was Brendan in the office.
We recommend if you get the opportunity go for it...
We boarded with another couple and we headed up Franz Josef Glacier. On top of the mountain we were able to get out and experience the snow.
It was a stunning morning and a memorable trip we will never forget.
Our pilot Kody was very informative and friendly.
Kate was a pleasure to deal with, her assistance getting us to the helipad and on board was very professional as was Brendan in the office.
We recommend if you get the opportunity go for it...
Written 10 August 2020
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.
Mōrena Steve! We take pride in delivering unforgettable experiences of the glaciers here on the coast, it looks like your last-minute decision paid off! Soaring so close to the glaciers, taking in the alpine landscape, topped up with the beautiful snow landing within the national park, it can’t get much better than that! We’re proud of the way our Morenastaff makes the experience as smooth as possible, we will be sure to pass your praise back to Brenden, Kate and Kody. Thank you for your recommendation of us, we all hope you enjoyed the rest of your holiday.
Kind regards,
The Helicopter Line
Written 13 October 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vacation21802740399
2 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We booked last minute with The Helicopter Line from Mount Cook and they were very accommodating. On a morning when the weather was coming in they took us up early and gave us the most amazing and personal experience on Ben Ohau mountain range. Can only say wow to the experience and to the amazing staff.
Written 27 June 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.
Kia Ora,
Thank you for your wonderful review. It sounds like you had a great experience. It's great to hear that our team were accommodating, especially with the weather conditions. We will pass on your kind words to our crew. Hopefully, we will see you again for another unforgettable experience in the future.
Kind regards,
The Helicopter Line
Written 2 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is it better to take helicopter ride in morning? noon? early afternoon?
We are travelling in early March, saw from reviews many factors can lead to flight cancellation.
This is our first and probably only trip to New Zealand in a lifetime, want to plan it well to increase chance of viewing.
Thanks very much for contributing 😃
Written 4 January 2019
Book for early morning. That way if you can’t go due to weather, you may be able to get on a flight later in the day. They will do their best to try to get you up!
Written 4 January 2019
My family of 4 are keen to experience a heli ride with landing. I am in two minds about whether to go for the twin Franz/Fox flight but with no view of Mt Cook, or one that covers either Franz or Fox but will also view Mt Cook and Tasman Glazier. If i have to choose between Franz or Fox, which is better? Any advise? Thanks.
Written 19 May 2018
If you haven’t been just do the two glaciers. The information from our pilot is that it is always windy and most times you don’t get too close to Mount Cook anyways! Otherwise it is a spectacular trip and well worth it.
Written 26 June 2018
patfraut
Austin, Texas
My husband and I are planning a trip to Franz Josef during the first week of April this year. We would like to take the Heli Hiking tour on Saturday April 8th, the morning tour. My question is: should we book this well in advance to insure we have a spot, or are there usually openings if we wait until the morning of the desired day to book? I only hesitate to book ahead, due to not knowing what the weather will be like. If the conditions for viewing are poor, but the tour is not cancelled, I'd hate to loose all the money we have paid for the tour. I welcome any suggestions on how to handle this.
Written 12 February 2017
we signed up on the morning we went up the glacier. A Chinese man who had booked some monrths in advance was in the office and quite angry that they could not get the full tour at the time because of poor visibility - something the company have no control of and no responsible helicopter pilot is going to ignore regardless of how much he is payed.
The company did not bill us until the ride was over as they could not predict whether the full route would be available. Luckily for us the cloud lifted. I assume they will offer the same level of honesty to you too - refund you the difference if it's not possible to get the full benefit of what you've paid for. Doesn't hurt to ask to be sure.
Please reply with a result. Just curious.
Written 14 February 2017
Hi William,
We have a seasonal office in Twizel which is closed at the moment. The nearest base would be Glentanner, on your way to Mount Cook.
Written 17 January 2017
Hello, we have three children (8, 10 and 12) and were hoping to do a helicopter ride and hike with them in February. Is this possible and if so, what do you suggest to get the best views of the area and explore things like ice caves? Thank you
Written 5 January 2017
Hello, thank you for your enquiry. Firstly, yes! It is absolutely possible to organise a helicopter ride and hike for three children. We offer a Heli-Hike here at The Helicopter Line - Franz Josef, which is an awesome helicopter flight over the main ice fall of the glacier with a unique two hour guided walk amongst the ice caves, pinnacles and seracs of the pristine, alpine environment.
You’ll see the extraordinary colours of the ice flow from above and then up close, on an unforgettable guided walk.
Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike operates in February at 0930, 1200, 1430, and we are currently taking bookings for this time. February is, however, a busy time of the year for us, and I would recommend that you call us directly to organise a reservation. Alternately, you can contact us through our website. Hopefully this answers your question! We look forward to hearing from you :)
Written 6 January 2017
We are a group of three ladies. We would like to take the helicopter to Franz Josef Glacier and do a bit of glaicer hiking. We are however not sure if we can manage the 2 hour walk in one of your tour programme. Do you have a glacier walk of not so difficult level and last 1-1.5 hour ?
Written 20 November 2016
Unfortunately 2 hours is the minimum time you are able to spend on the glacier. The walk itself is not too difficult as the pace is quite casual and we provide walking poles to assist you. We also have scenic flights available where you get a snow landing for about 8 minutes and get to see much more of the beautiful area we have here. Please call us on +64 3 752 0767 to discuss this further.
Written 20 November 2016
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