Visitors will be able to explore Kā Roimata-a-Hinehukatere (Franz Josef Glacier), Te Moeka-o-Tuawe
(Fox Glacier) and Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (the Southern Alps) with the West Coast’s newest helicopter
company, Vantage Helicopters.
The business, part of the Ngāi Tahu Tourism group, along with Glacier Southern Lakes
Helicopters in Queenstown, has launched three scenic flight options ranging from 25 to 45 minutes,
each including a snow landing.
“We timed the launch of these scenic flights in advance of the busy summer season. With so many visitors in the region we’re pleased to offer them the opportunity to fly over such iconic and spectacular scenery,” said Pat West, Ngāi Tahu Tourism’s General Manager Aviation.
The premier scenic flight encompasses views over Kā Roimata-a-Hinehukatere, Te Moeka-o-Tuawe
and New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook. Other flight options feature the two glaciers.
“Our flights include the opportunity to land on snow, so our manuhiri (visitors) are able to see these
locations from new heights and then get up close to the beautiful landscape. The geography of the
region is unique, given the proximity of the Tasman Sea to the West Coast rainforest and the
towering Southern Alps,” West says.
The flight tours are as follows:
Franz Josef Scenic Flight
Scenic flight starts from Franz Josef township. Fly over pristine rainforest and into the valley that is home to Franz Josef Glacier.
Adult: NZ$280
Duration: 20 minutes
Landing: Snow landing (10 minutes)
Twin Glaciers
Starting from the Franz Josef township, fly over the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier and further on to the Fox Glacier.
Adult: NZ$380
Duration: 35 minutes
Landing: Snow landing (10 minutes)
Twin Glaciers Plus Aoraki Mount Cook
The ultimate scenic flight journey featuring New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mount Cook, and the second highest, Mt Tasman.
Adult: NZ$480
Duration: 45 minutes
Landing: Snow landing (10 minutes)
Vantage Helicopters also provides transfer flights on to Kā Roimata-a-Hinehukatere for Franz Josef
Glacier Guides, another Ngāi Tahu Tourism business.
The company has a modern fleet of Airbus Squirrel helicopters and a team of highly
experienced pilots and ground crew, with extensive knowledge of the unique local mountain
environment.
More information at vantagehelicopters.co.nz/