Aoraki Mount Cook Helicopter Tours: Alpine Wonders
Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park from the skies.
The Southern Alps of New Zealand, and specifically Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, offer a landscape of unparalleled dramatic beauty. Towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and turquoise lakes converge to create a scene that truly demands to be seen from above. Scenic helicopter flights in this region are not merely a mode of transport; they are an immersive experience, lifting you beyond the reach of terrestrial trails to witness the raw, untamed power and pristine majesty of Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. These aerial journeys provide perspectives impossible to gain on foot. Imagine soaring alongside the mighty Aoraki/Mount Cook itself, its snow-capped summit piercing the vast blue sky. Gliding over the immense Tasman Glacier, one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions, reveals a world of ice sculpted over millennia. You’ll witness the stark contrast between jagged mountain ridges and the smooth, flowing ice, a testament to nature's enduring artistry. For many, the highlight is a glacier landing, stepping out onto the ice to feel the crisp alpine air and marvel at the surrounding panorama. This is an opportunity to connect with the heart of the Southern Alps in a profound and unforgettable way, offering moments of quiet contemplation amidst breathtaking scenery.
Featured Scenic Helicopter Flights Tours
Discover our top picks for scenic helicopter flights in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)
Get ready for an adventure or a relaxing day in the mountains! Explore Mt Cook on a fully guided, small-group tour from Queenstown, with free time to hike, fly, or simply unwind. Highlights: • Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park • Lake Pukaki • Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps • High Country Salmon (time dependent) • Free time for activities & walks Enjoy approximately three hours of free time at Mt Cook to make your day as adventurous or relaxed as you choose: hike alpine trails, soar above glaciers on a scenic flight, or unwind at the Hermitage Hotel with a hot chocolate, soaking in the views. Make memories that last a lifetime. ***PLEASE NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout (located between the first and second swing bridges) while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This scenic section still offers stunning views and a rewarding hiking experience. The full track is expected to reopen in Autumn 2026.***
This short scenic flight option is ideal if you're looking for the opportunity to experience the thrill of a helicopter flight with incredible alpine views. Sweep through the rugged high country landscape of the Ben Ohau mountain range to a landing site in the mountains. Enjoy the fantastic vista from this alpine setting as you look out to the mountains and glaciers, and down the valleys that were carved out by glaciers centuries ago. *Snow landings are not guaranteed and are subject to season.
Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you explore the majestic peaks and awe-inspiring valleys surrounding Aoraki / Mount Cook. Fly over the lower Tasman Glacier and soar above the Liebig mountain range, taking in the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. Make an alpine landing to take in the breathtaking panoramic views.
Our premier flight over the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields. See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in snow amongst the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki / Mount Cook during your alpine (seasonal snow) landing. Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki / Mount Cook.
The Tasman Glacier is Aotearoa New Zealand's longest glacier measuring at 27km long and as wide as 4km in places, so this is an experience of a lifetime to explore the ever changing ice formations that carved this wonderful landscape in the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Your journey will begin with a scenic helicopter flight to the Tasman Glacier, landing 1200m above sea level. A two hour hike with professional and experienced guides amongst epic glacial ice formations, gentle undulating terrain below the highest peaks of the Southern Alps. The snow-clad giants tower above vast icefalls that flow down the mountain sides. On the return flight, pass the Hochstetter Icefall as your adventure nears its end.
Aoraki/Mount Cook ‘the cloud piercer’, our highest peak dominates the Southern Alps mountain range that divides New Zealand’s South Island into east and west. The Mt Cook National Park’s towering mountains, vast glaciers and remote snowfields inspired Sir Edmund Hillary, before his quest of Mt Everest. This flight takes you past the Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki/Mt Cook and the upper Tasman Glacier before a thrilling alpine landing in the snow. You’ll fly home through the remote Burnett Mountains with the expansive and arid Mackenzie Basin below you.
*WORLD EXCLUSIVE FLIGHT* Join this tour for the unique opportunity to fly in both a Ski Plane and Helicopter, the only flight like it in the world! Fly up in either a ski plane or helicopter on this incredible 45 minute flight which includes a Tasman glacier landing (10-15 minutes) we switch aircraft for the flight home! Flying through the remarkable Tasman Valley and landing on the snow covered peaks with this scenic option is an unforgettable experience and a WORLD EXCLUSIVE FLIGHT with both the ski plane and helicopter! Get your camera ready!! Check in closes 30 minutes prior to the flight time
Join this 45-minute Helicopter scenic experience through Aoraki Mt Cook National Park for a helicopter tour like no other! Sit back, relax, and soak in the breathtaking views from the moment you’re airborne. Experience everything Mt Cook National Park has to offer. Glacier landing (10-15 minutes) on the Tasman Glacier, fly to the top of the Tasman Glacier Check in closes 45 minutes to the flight time
Fly from Christchurch to view the highest mountain in New Zealand, Aoraki Mount Cook—the training ground of Sir Edmund Hillary. Viewing the Canterbury plains, lakes, Tasman Glacier, and the spectacular ice falls of the many smaller glaciers in the region. Experience the New Zealand Southern Alps on board a luxury helicopter. Alpine landing, seasonal snow if the weather allows. Fly home through Lord of the Rings country and see the spectacular film site used in the trilogy. Returning to Christchurch after 3 hours to continue your further travels.' Great photo opportunities throughout your flight. Pilot commentary throughout your flight.
Aoraki / Mount Cook was named the cloud piercer by Máori. You’ll see for yourself on this flight over the Ben Ohau mountain range and peaks of the Southern Alps that surround this storied mountain. Your helicopter will manoeuvre you to an alpine vantage point where it’s safe for an alpine landing and time to take it all in. *Snow landings are not guaranteed and are subject to season.
Experience two of New Zealand's finest National Parks, divided by the imposing Southern Alps. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier snowfields with a helicopter snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Learn about the stunning landscape as your professional pilot delivers an informative commentary enroute. You'll fly along the Main Divide for fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki (Mount Cook) before heading back down towards the lush rainforests at the edge of the Tasman Sea.
The one-hour fixed-wing flight from Queenstown to the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki Mount Cook is certainly spectacular, but the highlight of this trip is the glacier Heli Hike. The experienced guides will take you into a deep part of the glacier via a scenic helicopter flight. The helicopter passes over the deep crevasses of the icefalls and waterfalls to land on the Tasman glacier itself. From there you’ll be fitted with crampons for the two hours on the ice, exploring caves and seeing the natural, ever-changing wonder of the glacier in the South Island of New Zealand.
**For guaranteed snow landings all year round - please book our 45 Minute Ultimate Alpine Combo - Snow cannot be guaranteed during summer months on this product** A 25 minute flight including an alpine landing, that looks directly at Aoraki Mt Cook and down onto the valley. Explore the valleys and peaks of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park by sky in one of our state-of-the-art helicopters. Fly over the Tasman Terminal Lake and up the Tasman Valley before doing an alpine landing- on a mountain with beautiful views looking directly towards Aoraki Mt Cook and of the National Park. (10-15 minutes landed) Enjoy the comfort, safety, and performance of our AS350 Squirrel Helicopters. Sit back and relax as you watch the gorgeous scenery unfold beneath you. Be sure to take lots of photos to document this one-of-a-kind experience. Our pilots offer informative and interesting commentary throughout the flight to ensure you receive the best possible experience.
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. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Mt Cook Bus Tour & Heli Hike Combo, this small group, fully-guided day trip from Queenstown combines all of the key highlights of Mt Cook with a guided bus tour before an incredible Heli Hike on Tasman Glacier including two scenic helicopter flights. Our airline partner will provide you with all the necessary equipment such as leather boots, socks, gaiters, crampons/snowshoes, walking poles, waterproof jacket, & over trousers (itis not recommended to wear jeans) Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge!
Soar through the sky on this 55-minute scenic Helicopter experience through the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks flying over the Fox, Franz Josef and Tasman Glacier, included a glacier landing (10-15 minutes). The ultimate way to see the Southern Alps and a bucket list flight. Check in closes 45 minutes prior to the flight time.
Why Choose Scenic Helicopter Flights in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)?
Unrivaled Views
Gain perspectives of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps impossible from the ground.
Glacier Landings
Experience the thrill of stepping onto an ancient glacier for a unique photo opportunity.
Exclusive Access
Reach remote alpine areas and gain intimate views of glaciers and mountain formations.
Photographer's Paradise
Capture stunning, wide-angle shots of dramatic mountainscapes and icy expanses.
Time-Efficient
See more of the vast national park in a shorter timeframe than traditional hiking.
World Heritage Scenery
Explore the iconic beauty of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Types of Scenic Helicopter Flights in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)
Classic Alpine Explorer
These introductory flights offer a comprehensive overview of the park's highlights, including Aoraki/Mount Cook and surrounding peaks. Expect stunning aerial views of glacial valleys and turquoise lakes.
Glacier Landing Experience
The quintessential Aoraki Mount Cook helicopter experience. These tours typically include a landing on the Tasman Glacier or a similar alpine snowfield, allowing you to step out and immerse yourself in the environment.
Extended Alpine Grand Tour
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration, these longer flights may venture further into the alpine regions, perhaps exploring different valleys or offering more time at a glacier landing site. Some may even include multiple landings.
Remote Peak & Wilderness Flyover
These premium flights aim to showcase the remotest and most dramatic parts of the national park. They often focus on less accessible peaks and wilderness areas, providing a true sense of the vastness and isolation of the Southern Alps.
What to Expect on Scenic Helicopter Flights Tours
Duration
Most scenic helicopter flights range from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the chosen itinerary and whether a glacier landing is included. The actual flight time is usually shorter than the total tour duration, accounting for pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefs.
Weather
Alpine weather is notoriously changeable. Flights are highly dependent on clear visibility and calm conditions. Operators will reschedule or cancel tours if weather is unsuitable to ensure safety and the best possible experience. Booking flexibility is key.
Group Size
Helicopter capacities vary, but most typically carry between 4 to 6 passengers, plus the pilot. This ensures an intimate experience with excellent views for everyone. Solo flights or private charters are also often available at a higher cost.
What's Included
Typically includes the helicopter flight itself, a professional pilot, and often a headset for communication and commentary. Glacier landing tours include the opportunity to disembark. Transfers from nearby accommodation may be offered by some operators.
Meeting Point
Flights usually depart from helipads located near Mount Cook Village or from larger hubs like Queenstown or Wanaka, with transfers to the national park. Specific meeting points and times will be confirmed upon booking.
Costs
Prices vary significantly based on flight duration, route, and whether a glacier landing is included. Expect starting prices around $300 USD for shorter scenic flights, with longer, more exclusive tours costing considerably more. Prices may fluctuate seasonally.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak season (spring and summer), as these tours are popular and weather-dependent.
Consider booking directly with operators for potentially better flexibility with rescheduling due to weather.
Dress in warm layers. Even on a sunny day, alpine temperatures can be significantly colder, and the air at altitude is cool.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun's glare off snow and ice can be intense.
Ensure your camera or phone is fully charged and has ample storage. You'll want to capture every moment.
Listen to your pilot. They have extensive knowledge of the area and will provide valuable insights.
If you're prone to motion sickness, inform the pilot. They can often adjust flight paths to minimize turbulence.
Be prepared for the possibility of cancellation. If your flight is cancelled due to weather, most operators offer full refunds or the option to rebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is a helicopter flight worth the cost in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park?
A: For many visitors, the unique perspective and access to remote alpine areas make a helicopter flight an exceptional experience that justifies the cost. Seeing the vastness of the glaciers and the scale of the mountains from above offers a profound appreciation for the landscape.
Q:What's the difference between a glacier landing and just flying over the glacier?
A: A glacier landing allows you to actually step out of the helicopter and stand on the ice. You can walk around (within safe limits), feel the environment, and take photos from a unique vantage point on the glacier itself.
Q:Can I choose where we fly?
A: Most standard tours follow established scenic routes showcasing key landmarks. However, private charters offer the flexibility to discuss specific areas of interest with your pilot, though safety and operational constraints always apply.
Q:What should I wear on a helicopter flight?
A: It's best to wear comfortable, warm clothing in layers. A windproof jacket is highly recommended, as is sturdy footwear, especially if you opt for a glacier landing. Sunglasses are essential due to the bright conditions.
Q:What happens if my flight is cancelled due to weather?
A: Reputable operators will offer a full refund or the chance to reschedule your flight for another day. It's always a good idea to check the operator's cancellation policy when booking.
Q:Are there weight restrictions for helicopter flights?
A: Yes, there are typically weight restrictions per passenger and for the total payload of the helicopter. These are for safety reasons and will be communicated by the tour operator when you book.
Q:How far in advance should I book a helicopter tour?
A: It's recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance, especially if you're traveling during the busy summer months or want a specific landing site or time. For last-minute availability, you can check directly with operators.
Q:Do these flights offer commentary?
A: Many scenic helicopter flights include commentary from your pilot, who will share information about the geology, history, and notable landmarks of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. This enhances the overall experience.
Why Visit Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)?
Experience the raw, majestic Southern Alps and New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Hike diverse trails with breathtaking views of glaciers and turquoise alpine lakes.
Discover the rich Māori cultural heritage and the spiritual significance of Aoraki.
Marvel at the pristine stargazing opportunities in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Enjoy world-class mountaineering and scenic flights over dramatic glacial landscapes.
Immerse yourself in the wild, untamed beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) experiences a cool alpine climate with significant seasonal variation. Summers (December-February) are generally mildest, with longer daylight hours, while winters (June-August) bring snow and sub-zero temperatures. Expect changeable weather year-round, with rapid shifts from sun to rain or snow, even in summer.
Best Months
Summer months, from December to February, offer the most pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities, with longer daylight hours and generally clearer skies.
Peak Season
The peak season typically runs from December through February, coinciding with summer holidays. You'll find the warmest weather and most accessible conditions, but also the largest crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Off Season
The shoulder seasons (spring: September-November; autumn: March-May) offer a quieter experience with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, though weather can be more unpredictable.
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Plan Your Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) primarily involves your own vehicle or organized tours. The main road into the park is well-maintained and leads to key trailheads and the village. Once at the village, most popular walks are easily accessible on foot. Shuttle services may operate seasonally between accommodation and trail starts. For exploring further afield or reaching remote areas, guided tours or hiring a private driver are options, as public transport within the park is limited. Car parking is available at major attractions.
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