Mountain Helicopters

Mountain Helicopters offers an unforgettable way to explore the wild beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast. Operating from Franz Josef, this family-owned company provides personalised scenic flights over some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes.

From the moment you take off, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of towering Southern Alps peaks, vast icefalls, and the world-famous Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Many tours include glacier landings, where you can step out onto ancient ice, wander among crevasses, and capture photographs of landscapes that feel otherworldly. With smaller helicopters and a focus on intimate experiences, every flight feels personal and tailored.

Popular flight options:

10 Minute Glacier Flight: The 10 minute Fox Glacier or Franz Josef flight is an introductory flight that allows magnificent views of the mighty Fox or Franz Josef Glacier. Climb thousands of feet high in just minutes to experience outstanding views of ice falls, crevasses and waterfalls in one of only three places in the world where glaciers meet rain forest.

20 Minute Fox Glacier Flight and Snow Landing: Fly over the glacier and land. The 20-minute Glacier and snow landing flight is a wonderful introductory flight with the added bonus of a Snow Landing for amazing photo opportunities!

40 Minute Mountain Ultimate Flight, Snow Landing: This is our premier high alpine helicopter flight around Westland National Park. The 40-minute flight takes you over both the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, all the way around Mount Cook & Mount Tasman, as well as including a 10-minute snow landing (weather permitting).  This offers a once in a lifetime photo opportunity exploring the expanses of icefalls, glaciers and mountain ranges.