40 Minute Mt Cook, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Snow Landing

A Closer Look at the 40 Minute Mt Cook, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Snow Landing Tour

This helicopter flight offers an impressive way to see some of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers and peaks in just one hour. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect to experience.

What’s truly appealing about this adventure are the stunning aerial views of two distinct glaciers, the up-close encounter with New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook, and the unique snow landing that elevates this flight from just sightseeing to a genuine adventure.

One potential consideration is the price point, which might seem steep for some, but it’s generally regarded as offering good value given the exclusive nature of the views and the included snow landing.

This tour is ideal for those who love captivating scenery, flying experiences, and memorable photo moments. It’s perfect for travelers who want an accessible but extraordinary way to see New Zealand’s rugged beauty without a full-day hike or multiple days of touring.

Key Points

• Spectacular aerial views of Fox Glacier, Franz Josef Glacier, and the towering Mount Cook.
• Includes a snow landing, offering exceptional photo opportunities and a sense of true adventure.
• Guaranteed window seat, with informative commentary from experienced pilots.
• Short, efficient tour lasting around 1 hour, perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
• Small group size (maximum of 4 travelers), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Family-owned operation known for friendly service and local hospitality.

Why the 40-Minute Helicopter Tour Stands Out

For travelers eager to see New Zealand’s South Island highlights, this helicopter tour packs a punch. It combines the thrill of flying with educational and visual richness, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a quick but comprehensive snapshot of the region’s glaciers and mountains.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Fox Glacier

Your adventure begins with views of Fox Glacier, one of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers. Located just behind the village of Fox Glacier, this expansive ice mass is famous for its large crevasses and flowing waterfalls feeding into the blue ice below.

With a 10-minute flight segment, you’ll see the scale and textures of this glacier up close, gaining a sense of its sheer size. One reviewer, Sue, mentions it’s “a superb view of the glaciers,” emphasizing how impressive the glacier’s surface features and surrounding waterfalls appear from the air.

Stop 2: Franz Josef Glacier

Next, the flight takes you over the Franz Josef Glacier, which is similarly dramatic but visually distinct from Fox Glacier. It’s tucked behind the village of Franz Josef, and flying alongside it reveals massive ice features and cascading waterfalls.

The difference between the two glaciers is noticeable—one reviewer pointed out that “flying up the Franz Josef Glacier you will see glacial waterfalls and large-scale ice features that only a glacier of this magnitude is able to offer,” highlighting the glacier’s grandeur and the variety of ice formations visible from the air.

Stop 3: Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman

Finally, your flight reaches the Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman area, where you get a close-up view of New Zealand’s highest peaks. Mount Cook rises sharply to 3,724 meters, with Mount Tasman nearby at 3,497 meters.

You’ll see the glaciers feeding into these peaks—the Balfour Glacier leading up to Mount Tasman and La Perouse Glacier approaching Mount Cook. One reviewer mentioned how “seeing the peaks up close and personal” made the experience memorable.

This part of the flight encapsulates the majesty of New Zealand’s alpine terrain, with the added thrill of observing glacial systems climbing the mountains.

The Snow Landing Experience

The highlight for many is the 10-minute snow landing, which is quite rare and offers fantastic photo ops. Think of it as stepping onto a pristine winter wonderland, even in the middle of summer.

One reviewer noted that the snow landing “includes perfect photo opportunities and a chat with your friendly pilot,” which adds a personal touch to the adventure. Since the landing is on snow, it creates a feeling of true exploration—an experience that most travelers find memorable and worth the extra effort.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Personalized Attention and Small Group Sizes

With a maximum of four travelers, this tour offers a more intimate experience. The pilots are local and experienced, providing informative commentary tailored to your interests. The guaranteed window seat ensures everyone gets clear views and great photos.

Quality of the Experience

Reviews consistently highlight the delightful attitude of the staff and their efforts to accommodate guests—even when flight minimums are tight. One review cited how staff worked to make the trip happen by coordinating with other bookings, which speaks to their flexibility and dedication.

Value for Money

At $352.07 per person, this tour is on the higher end but seen as good value given the spectacular views and the snow landing. The inclusion of a snow landing—an experience that’s often an extra-cost add-on elsewhere—makes this package stand out.

Authentic Local Hospitality

Being a family-owned operation, Mountain Helicopters emphasizes friendly, local service. This adds a layer of authenticity often missing from larger tourism operations.

Practical Considerations

Booking and Planning

This tour is usually booked about 18 days in advance, indicating high popularity. It’s best to secure your spot early, especially if you have a fixed travel schedule.

Weather Dependence

Like all scenic flights, this experience relies heavily on good weather. If poor conditions cause a cancellation, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Duration and Logistics

You should allocate about 1 hour for the entire experience—20 minutes for prep and briefings, 30 minutes of flight time, and a little extra for boarding and disembarking. The actual flight is 30 minutes, but the total commitment includes briefing and post-flight debriefs.

Group Size and Accessibility

The small group size makes the experience more personal, but it also means limited availability. The tour can accommodate most travelers, with a maximum weight restriction of 287 lbs per person being noted.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who enjoy scenic flights, glacier scenery, and mountain vistas, this helicopter tour offers unparalleled value. The combination of glacier views, mountain peaks, and snow landing creates a well-rounded adventure in a short time.

The reviews reinforce that it’s a worthwhile splurge—many travelers find it “so worth the investment” and a highlight of their trip. The friendly staff and personalized service make it even more appealing, especially for first-time visitors wanting a hassle-free, memorable experience.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a dramatic overview of New Zealand’s glaciers and peaks without dedicating an entire day.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves a helicopter ride, so it’s best for those comfortable with flying. The experience details don’t specify restrictions but consider personal comfort with heights and small aircraft.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made about 18 days in advance, so it’s advisable to reserve early to secure your preferred date.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the helicopter flight, a guaranteed window seat, informative commentary, and a 10-minute snow landing with plenty of photo opportunities.

Are jackets or footwear provided?
No, the tour does not provide jackets or footwear, so dress appropriately for snow and cold weather.

What if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the entire experience?
Plan for about 1 hour total, including briefings, the flight itself, and any waiting time.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the maximum group size is four, but solo travelers are welcome and will likely enjoy the intimate setting.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

To sum it up, this helicopter tour offers a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, personalized service, and an unforgettable snow landing experience. It caters well to those seeking a high-value, short but impactful adventure that highlights the best of New Zealand’s glaciers and mountains. Whether it’s your first visit or an added highlight to your trip, this flight delivers plenty of WOW moments with relatively minimal time commitment.