Embark on the Mt Cook Heli Hike, an unforgettable day of soaring alpine flights and glacial exploration in one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. Operated by Glenorchy Air, this adventure is a rare combination of scenic flights, thrilling helicopter transfers, and a guided hike across the vast ice of the Tasman Glacier.
Your day kicks off with a breathtaking flight from Queenstown, tracking along New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Enjoy bird’s-eye views of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea to the west, while Lake Pukaki — famed for its vivid turquoise waters — glimmers below.
As you continue north, witness aerial views of the West Coast’s Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers before sweeping into Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park. The mighty Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest and largest glacier, sprawls beneath the towering peak of Mt. Cook, offering one of the most awe-inspiring alpine vistas in the country.
Touch down at Aoraki/Mt. Cook Airport, where you’ll team up with professional guides for the heli-hiking leg of your Mt Cook Heli Hike adventure.
Board a helicopter and ascend to a remote drop-off point high on the Tasman Glacier. Equipped with crampons and alpine gear, your expert guide will lead you safely through a frozen world of ice caves, crevasses, and towering seracs. Learn traditional glacier travel skills and hear stories from New Zealand’s rich mountaineering history as your guide carves paths into the ice with classic ice axes.
As this is a big day of activity, we recommend bringing easy-to-carry snacks. After your hike, there’s also time to relax and grab a quick bite at the Hermitage Café while taking in views of the Southern Alps.
The adventure wraps up with a return scenic flight along a different route, this time soaring over the sweeping Lindis Pass — a stark, beautiful contrast to the jagged alpine peaks — before descending back into Queenstown.
Important details:
-
Scenic return flights with Glenorchy Air
-
Helicopter flight and glacier landing
-
2–3 hour guided heli hike on Tasman Glacier
-
Alpine equipment provided
-
Operated by Glenorchy Air & Glacier Guides NZ
-
Suitable for ages 8+ with moderate fitness
The Mt Cook Heli Hike is an epic, bucket-list-worthy experience combining breathtaking aerial scenery and a one-of-a-kind ice adventure.
