Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Te Wahipounamu stands out as a top destination for heli-tours thanks to its dramatic mountain peaks, massive glaciers, and wide-open skies. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or an extended scenic adventure, helicopter flights here give you a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground. The 45-minute Glacier Highlights Tour is a favorite, offering a panoramic view of the Tasman Glacier with a memorable glacier landing, while the 55-minute Grand Circle takes you over multiple glaciers and peaks for a comprehensive experience. If you’re craving something truly unique, the 45-minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo offers a rare switch between two aircraft types, adding an extra layer of excitement. For those with limited time but a desire for alpine scenery, the 25-minute Alpine Landing is a perfect choice. Let’s explore these options in detail to help you find the perfect heli-tour for your trip.
Quick Overview
This guide features four top helicopter and combined aircraft tours, each with a different focus. From glacier landings to a world-exclusive ski plane and helicopter combo, you’ll find options suited for various schedules, budgets, and interests. Whether you’re after an easy 25-minute flight or a 55-minute grand tour, these experiences will give you unforgettable views of Aoraki Mt Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and surrounding peaks. Check out the full list below for detailed descriptions.
1. 45-Minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour from Mount Cook
At number 1, this 45-minute Glacier Highlights Helicopter Tour offers a fantastic balance of scenery and memorable activities. It’s rated 5.0/5 based on 57 reviews, and for $418.45 per person, you get a comprehensive look at the Tasman Glacier with a glacier landing included. The tour begins with breathtaking views of the Aoraki Mount Cook area, flying over the braided rivers and glaciers before landing on the ice for 10-15 minutes. During this time, engines are off, allowing you to enjoy the silence and take in the stunning surroundings.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of aerial sight-seeing with a close encounter on the glacier itself. You’ll get a chance to step onto one of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers, look directly at Aoraki Mt Cook, and experience the untouched silence of the ice. The pilot is knowledgeable, sharing insights about the landscape, making this more than just a pretty flight. Reviewers rave about the experience being “breathtaking” and “the highlight of their trip.”
Bottom line: If you want a mid-length, well-rounded helicopter experience with a glacier landing that delivers both adventure and incredible views, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of both flying and glacier exploration without committing to a full day.
2. 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour
Number 2 on our list is the 45-minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo, which is a world-exclusive experience. For approximately $354, you get to fly in both a ski plane and helicopter over the stunning Tasman Valley and glaciers. The switch between aircraft at the glacier adds an extra thrill, along with the chance to land on snow-covered peaks—an experience that’s truly rare.
This tour is unique because it combines the best of both worlds. The ski plane offers a smooth, close-up view of the snow and ice from the air, while the helicopter provides an even more immersive, panoramic perspective. Guests love how the aircraft changeover on the glacier makes the experience feel exclusive, and reviewers often mention how the pilot expertly points out key mountains and features. A common highlight is the serenity of landing on the glacier, where engines are shut off to enjoy the silence.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure seekers who want to maximize their time and see Aoraki Mt Cook from different angles. The combination of aircraft and the glacier landing makes it a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience worth the price.
3. 25-Minute Helicopter Flight Including an Alpine Landing
At number 3, the 25-minute alpine landing helicopter flight offers a shorter but equally impressive alpine experience. This tour is ideal if you’re limited on time but still want to see the valleys and peaks of the park from above. You’ll fly over the Tasman Terminal Lake, then land on Brass Peak or Liebig Dome, where you’re surrounded by snow-capped mountains and breathtaking scenery.
The main attraction here is the alpine landing—where you can step out onto a mountain top and soak in the landscape. The flight offers views of the Tasman Valley, Aoraki Mt Cook, and ice formations, all from a comfortable helicopter. Reviewers note that the pilot is friendly and provides interesting commentary, making the flight both informative and enjoyable. It’s a great option for those wanting an exhilarating taste of alpine scenery without the longer commitment.
Bottom line: If your schedule is tight but you still want a genuine mountain landing experience, this tour hits the mark. It offers solid value with spectacular views from the air and on the ground.
4. 55-Minute Grand Circle Helicopter
Finally, at number 4 is the 55-minute Grand Circle Helicopter, which is the most comprehensive and most expensive option at around $477. This tour takes you on a full circuit through Aoraki Mt Cook, the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman glaciers, with a glacier landing included. It’s rated 4.5/5 from 36 reviews, with travelers loving the extended flight time and the chance to see multiple glaciers and peaks.
This experience is perfect for those who want an ultimate scenic flight covering as much of the region as possible. The flight includes flying right around Aoraki Mt Cook, over the West Coast glaciers, and landing on the Tasman Glacier. The views of the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers are spectacular, especially if weather conditions are clear. Reviewers mention that it’s “worth every penny” for the chance to see several major glaciers and mountains in one go.
Bottom line: If you’re after the most extensive flight with a full regional overview, this is the tour to choose. It’s suited for travelers who want maximum scenery and don’t mind the higher price tag.
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour
Picking the best helicopter experience depends on your time, budget, and what kind of scenery excites you. For a balanced taste of glaciers and mountain views, the 45-minute Glacier Highlights offers excellent value. If you want something truly unique, go for the ski plane and helicopter combo, which adds variety and the thrill of switching aircraft. Short on time but want a mountain top landing? The 25-minute alpine flight provides a quick but immersive experience. For the ultimate scenic overview, the 55-minute Grand Circle covers the most ground, ideal for serious scenery buffs.
Think about your comfort with flying, the kind of scenery you prefer, and whether glacier landings are a priority. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, since these tours fill up quickly. Check the weather forecast—clear days offer the best views—so plan your helicopter adventure when the skies are most cooperative.
To sum it up, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park offers a range of helicopter experiences that suit different needs. Whether you want a quick glimpse or a full aerial tour, these flights give you a perspective that’s impossible to achieve from the ground. For most travelers, the 45-minute Glacier Highlights Tour hits the sweet spot of value and adventure, but the Grand Circle is perfect if you’re looking for a more extensive journey. Whatever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these breathtaking views.