Glentanner is a prime place to experience New Zealand’s stunning mountain scenery in a way that’s both exciting and memorable. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a chance to capture breathtaking photos, or a peaceful alpine moment, Glentanner offers a variety of tours. We especially love the Mount Cook: Mountains High 40 minute Flight for its dramatic views of Hochstetter Icefall and the upper Tasman Glacier — it’s a quick thrill that packs a punch. Plus, the Mount Cook: Glentanner High Country Heli Hike combines helicopter access with a guided trek, perfect for those who want to combine aerial views with outdoor exploration.
Glentanner’s diverse landscape — from glaciers to mountain peaks — makes it ideal for a range of experiences. Whether you want to soar above the Southern Alps or step out onto a mountain summit, there is something for every adventure level. With activities like scenic helicopter flights and guided hikes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see this spectacular region from every angle.
1. Mount Cook: Mountains High 40 minute Flight
This 40-minute helicopter flight takes you past the Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki/Mount Cook and over the upper Tasman Glacier, offering a bird’s-eye view of some of New Zealand’s most iconic glacial landscapes. As you ascend into the mountains, you’ll also see the Burnett Mountains and the expansive Mackenzie Basin. The flight concludes with a thrilling alpine landing (weather permitting) in the snow — a rare chance to step onto a remote glacier environment.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on up-close glacier and mountain vistas in a compact timeframe, perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of high-altitude adventure. The pilot shares insights about the geography and history of the region, enriching the experience. With a small group limit of six, you’re guaranteed personal attention and better photo opportunities. The flight’s affordability and flexible booking options — including free cancellation and pay-later booking — make it an attractive choice.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those seeking a short, scenic helicopter ride with the chance for an alpine landing, perfect for capturing stunning photos and experiencing the remoteness of New Zealand’s mountains.
2. Mount Cook: Glentanner High Country Heli Hike
For a more immersive experience, the Mount Cook: Glentanner High Country Heli Hike combines a scenic helicopter flight with a 7km guided walk on private land at Glentanner Station. Over approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll ascend via helicopter to a high point on the station, then follow a well-maintained trail led by an engaging and knowledgeable guide. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning mountain vistas and have the opportunity to explore the historic field hut and its exhibition — a window into local life and history.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of aerial and land-based exploration. The helicopter provides access to areas otherwise unreachable, and the guided walk allows for close-up views of the rugged terrain and alpine flora. The included morning or afternoon tea adds a cozy touch to the adventure. With seven reviews rating it a perfect 5/5, travelers appreciate the professional guides and the sense of adventure without strenuous climbing.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to combine scenic helicopter flights with an authentic hiking experience. It’s a great way to enjoy the landscape at a relaxed pace with rich storytelling.
3. Mount Cook: 20-Minute Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight
If your time is limited but you still want a spectacular view of the Ben Ohau mountain range, the 20-Minute Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight is a perfect choice. For just over twenty minutes, you’ll soar over the mountains, catching a panoramic view of peaks and glaciers. The flight features an alpine landing where you can step out and breathe the mountain air, making the experience feel more personal and memorable.
This tour gets high marks for stunning photo opportunities and the chance to learn about the area from the pilot’s commentary. It’s a quick trip, but the view of Ben Ohau’s rugged peaks and the chance to set foot in the mountains make it well worth the price. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a short, high-impact experience without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic helicopter tour that delivers big views and mountain access, ideal for those with limited time who still want a true alpine experience.
4. Mount Cook: Alpine Explorer 35 Minute Flight
At roughly 35 minutes, the Mount Cook: Alpine Explorer offers a comprehensive aerial tour of the region, including a mountain landing on top of a peak. Starting from The Helicopter Line in Mount Cook, the flight takes you over the Ben Ohau Mountains and the Southern Alps, with Aoraki/Mount Cook towering in the background. The highlight is stepping out onto a mountain summit — a rare, almost surreal moment that provides an unmatched perspective of the surrounding peaks.
This flight is praised for its spectacular vistas and the opportunity to feel truly immersed in the alpine environment. The photo stop at the viewpoint adds a memorable touch, and the 35-minute duration strikes a great balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable time commitment. The small group size (limited to six) ensures a personal experience.
Bottom Line: A top-tier choice for anyone wanting an extended helicopter flight with an alpine landing, perfect for capturing the grandeur of the Southern Alps.
How to Choose Your Glentanner Experience
When deciding among these options, consider your time availability, budget, and what kind of experience excites you most. The Mount Cook: Mountains High 40 minute Flight is great for a quick thrill, while the High Country Heli Hike offers a more involved outdoor adventure. If scenic flying with a quick alpine stop suits your schedule, the 20-Minute Vista Flight is ideal. For a longer, more immersive experience, the Alpine Explorer Flight provides a memorable combination.
Think about your physical activity level too: if hiking isn’t your thing, a helicopter flight might be the best choice. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, and check cancellation policies to keep plans flexible.
Final Thoughts
Glentanner offers a fantastic range of aerial, hiking, and alpine experiences that suit different interests and schedules. If you’re pressed for time, the quick 20-minute flight or the 40-minute mountain tour deliver stunning views without demanding too much of your day. For those seeking a more hands-on adventure, the heli hike combines the thrill of helicopter access with a scenic walk. And if you want a full-on, sky-high exploration, the Alpine Explorer’s mountain landing is hard to beat.
No matter which experience you choose, booking in advance is wise to secure your spot. With options catering to various tastes, Glentanner promises memorable views and unique moments — so pick what appeals most, and prepare for a truly spectacular New Zealand adventure.