This summer, if you want to see the very best of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier), the Glacier Encounter with Franz Josef Glacier Guides is one of the strongest options available. It blends thrill, ease, and stunning landscapes - perfect for travellers seeking something truly special.
What Makes Glacier Encounter Unique
Scenic Helicopter Ride: Begin your experience with a breathtaking helicopter flight over lush Aotearoa rainforest, wild West Coast coastline, and the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps. Franz Josef Glacier Guides
Exclusive Access to the Glacier: The flight takes you up to the glacier’s icefall at around 1,300 metres. Once landed, you disembark onto the ice, offering rare access to areas most people never see.
Photo Opportunities & Stories: Time spent on the glacier with experienced guides who share the geology, ecology, and cultural narratives of the area. It’s more than just a view - it’s a chance to connect with this natural taonga.
Practical Details for Your Summer Visit
Duration: The full experience takes about 1 hour from check-in to finish.
Ice Time: You’ll spend roughly 15 minutes on the glacier itself. Enough time to walk the ice, explore, take photos, absorb the atmosphere.
Guide to Guest Ratio: Small groups with 1 guide for every 6 guests. That means more personal attention and safer, richer experiences.
Minimum Age: Children aged 4 years and up are welcome. The tour is low intensity, so it suits a wide range of fitness levels.
What to Bring: Warm breathable layers, good enclosed footwear (hiking boots preferred or sneakers will be fine), sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen), camera or phone.
What Not to Bring: Leave behind big bags, loose items like hats or scarves that could blow away, selfie-sticks, and valuables.
Who Is This For?
The Glacier Encounter is ideal for travellers who:
Want maximum impact with minimal effort - no specialist climbing gear, no steep hikes.
Are travelling with children (4+) or older family members and still want something exciting.
Seek amazing views and photo opportunities from high up, without needing intensive physical stamina.
Are curious about nature, geology, and local Māori culture, and are looking for a deeper connection to place.
Why It’s A Strong Summer Choice
Daily departures during summer mean you’ve got flexibility.
Longer daylight hours = more relaxed mornings, more time for enjoying the flight, the scenery, and being on the ice without feeling rushed.
The landscape around and below the glacier flourishes in summer: rainforest is vivid green, skies are often clearer, and the contrast between ice-white glacier and deep foliage makes for dramatic views.
If your summer plans include a dose of nature, wonder, and a story to tell, then the Glacier Encounter is hard to beat. It gives you spectacular views, access to dramatic glacial ice, the knowledge and passion of local guides, and all with ease of access, even for those who don’t want or can’t do intense hikes.
Make sure you book early - spaces fill fast in summer. Secure your place and prepare to see Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere in one of its most beautiful moods.