EXPERIENCE UNMATCHED GUIDING EXPERTISE

A guided heli-hike glacier experience you will never forget!

Franz Josef Glacier Guides and The Helicopter Line are proud to show you the very best of New Zealand's West Coast glaciers.

Thanks to our detailed knowledge of the glacier region, you'll come away with a whole new appreciation for Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier). But it's just as important that you feel safe throughout your trip.

Our guides have a great deal of experience and are highly skilled in finding the safest and most spectacular route for you. Each trip is tailored to the ability of your group as well as the conditions of the ice and valley on the day.

Heli Hike Tours are limited so be sure to book early! Please note this tour is operated by The Helicopter Line, with guided services provided by Franz Josef Glacier Guides.

Learn more about our guides

Our Tours

Glacier Heli Hike

Adult From$485

After an exciting brief flight over rugged terrain, you will land on Franz Josef Glacier ready for a two hour guided hike. Your guide, with an eye for the most spectacular ice formations, will lead you through some of the most awe-inspiring glacier scenery Aotearoa (New Zealand) has to offer.

Glacier Heli Hikes are operating from 4 July. Please note this product is operated by The Helicopter Line, with guided services provided by Franz Josef Glacier Guides.

Heli Transfer

Moderate Hike

Up to 2 hours ice time

Glacier Valley Walk

Adult From$82

Your Glacier Valley Walk will take you up alongside the mighty Waiho River bed following the glacier's path of retreat in this remarkable landscape. Here you will learn about the glacier's history, see what is left behind by this majestic giant, and learn the legend of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere.

Due to COVID-19 Glacier Valley Walks are not currently operating.

Interpretive Walk

Photo Opportunities

Rainforest valley views

Glacier Heli Ice Climb

Adult From$609

Under the expert tuition of our experienced guides, we will introduce you to the exhilarating sport of ice-climbing, whilst still enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Franz Josef Glacier. Your guide will tailor the day to challenge novices and experts alike. No experience necessary.

Due to COVID-19 Glacier Heli Ice Climb is not currently operating.

Heli Transfer

Challenging Climb

Up to 4 hours ice time

Glacier Overnighter

Adult From$999

The ultimate glacier adventure. Gain a whole new perspective of our majestic glacier on an authentic alpine camping expedition. Includes heli transfers, essential equipment, a 3 - 4 hour guided hike on the glacier, and overnight camping with food and drink provided. Operates summer months only (November - March).

Due to COVID-19 Glacier Overnight is not currently operating.

Heli Transfer

Moderate hike

16 hours ice time

Scenic Flights

Adult From$280

Soaring high above the mountain peaks and rainforest, scenic flights with Vantage Helicopters give you a unique opportunity to catch panoramic views of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, Southern Alps, the Tasman Sea and the majestic Aoraki Mount Cook. Three options available – all include a snow landing for the ultimate photo opportunity.

Due to COVID-19 Scenic flights are not currently operating.

Scenic flight

Photo Opportunities

Snow Landing

NEW ZEALAND'S MOST SPECTACULAR GLACIER

An ever-changing icescape.

Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata ō Hine Hukatere) is one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand, descending from its origins high in the Southern Alps deep into the lush native rainforest of Westland's National Park. It also moves faster than your average glacier at around 50cm per day. This creates some truly incredible features in the glacier such as ice caves, tunnels, seracs and crevasses; all of which are constantly changing and evolving so no two days are ever the same.

Learn more about Franz Josef Glacier

Great experience and very unique! Great guide and very well taken care of.

Heli Hike Guest
United States of America

Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff on a world class site, what's not to love?

Heli Hike Guest
Australia

The scenery is breathtaking and the experience completely worth the money. The guide ensures your safety and makes you feel looked after.

Heli Hike Guest
United Kingdom