Glacier Highlights Helicopter

45-Minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook

★ 4.8 59 reviews

from $397.02 per person

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Duration: 45 minutes
Meeting point: Mount Cook Airport
Cancellation: Free cancellation
Run by: Mount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters

Overview

This 45-minute helicopter flight from Mount Cook Airport crosses Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, with Tasman Glacier, the peaks around Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the operator's base at the airport itself listed as the stops on the route. Travellers consistently describe a landing on the snow as the core of the experience, with time standing on the glacier before the return leg. The whole outing runs to 45 minutes from the airport, which sits on State Highway 80 about five minutes before Aoraki Mount Cook Village.

The flight is wheelchair accessible and most travellers can take part, though each passenger's total weight is capped at 116 kg and the helicopter carries up to 12 travellers on a flight. A minimum of 4 people per flight applies before it will operate.

Reviewers call it a bucket list item and a highlight of a New Zealand trip, and one first-time helicopter passenger described a smooth, relaxed flight. Weather is the one real wildcard, so travellers who can keep a spare day in the area have the best odds of flying.

From$397.02 per person

Duration45 minutes

Rating4.8 from 59 reviews

What's Included

Included

Headsets to hear the guide clearly
Live commentary on board

Not Included

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Run byMount Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters

Itinerary

Check in at Mount Cook AirportMeet at Mount Cook Airport, 5260 Mount Cook Road on State Highway 80, about five minutes before Aoraki Mount Cook Village. Check in closes 45 minutes before flight time.
Board the helicopterTake a seat, put on a headset and listen to live commentary from the pilot during the flight.
Fly over Tasman Glacier
Return to Mount Cook AirportThe activity ends back at the same meeting point at Mount Cook Airport.

Glacier Landing: Weather permitting

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points come up again and again in reviews and in the conditions, and they shape how the flight actually goes.

A ski plane banking past the summit rock of Aoraki / Mount Cook, its wing over broken glacier ice in late golden light.

Pack light. One reviewer's advice was blunt: leave hats and bags behind and bring just a phone and sunglasses.
Glacier footwear. One reviewer recommends shoes that will not slide on the snow for the landing. Sunglasses also come up in the reviews.
Weather flexibility. Flights may be cancelled due to weather, and one reviewer suggests booking a couple of days in the area in case the booked day does not fly.
Group seating. The office staff tried to manage the situation for that party.
Photos cost extra. Souvenir photos are not included and can be purchased separately. Bring a phone or camera, since reviewers say the views are the reason to fly.
Warmth varies. One reviewer found it less cold on the snow than expected but noted this depends on the day.

From$397.02 per person

Rating4.8 from 59 reviews

Ready To FlyCheck availability →

Common issues. The two big risks are weather and minimum numbers. Flights may be cancelled due to weather, and a minimum of 4 people per flight applies before the flight will operate. Group size runs up to 12 travellers and each passenger's total weight is capped at 116 kg.

Common Questions

How Long Is The Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour?

The flight runs 45 minutes, starting and ending at Mount Cook Airport. Check in closes 45 minutes before flight time, so arrive with time to spare.

Where Does The Tour Meet?

At Mount Cook Airport, 5260 Mount Cook Road, on State Highway 80 about five minutes before Aoraki Mount Cook Village. Hotel pickup is not stated, so check the booking page if you need transport from your accommodation.

What Is Included In The Price?

Headsets to hear the guide clearly and live commentary on board are included. Souvenir photos are not included and can be purchased separately.

Is The Tour Suitable For Children And Infants?

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Infants must sit on laps, and infant seats are available.

Can I Cancel Or Change My Booking?

You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the flight's start time. Inside 24 hours no refund or changes are accepted. If the operator cancels for weather or because the minimum traveller number is not met, you are offered a different date or experience, or a full refund.

What Should I Bring On The Flight?

Keep it minimal. One reviewer advised bringing just a phone and sunglasses, and another suggested shoes that grip on snow for the glacier landing. Total weight per passenger is limited to 116 kg.