Fly Six Glaciers with 360-View Snow Landing in the Remote Wilderness, Hokitika

Experience a scenic helicopter tour over Southern Alps and immerse yourself in the dramatic landscapes of six different glaciers in the Whitcombe Valley.

Overview

Experience a scenic helicopter tour over Southern Alps and immerse yourself in the dramatic landscapes of six different glaciers in the Whitcombe Valley. Visit remote locations, home to Pounamu (Māori greenstone) and gold, spot historic deer stalker huts, and glimpse wild alpine animals like the Himalayan Tahr. An experienced pilot paints the history of the land as you marvel at the crystal clear waters formed by the glaciers' snowmelt. The 45-minute tour concludes with a snow landing offering 360-degree views of snow-capped mountains reaching the West Coast sea, a truly pure New Zealand experience.

Highlights

  • Fly up the Whitcombe Valley to view six distinctive glaciers in the Southern Alps
  • Explore remote spots known for Pounamu (greenstone) and gold finds
  • Spot historic deer stalker huts and wild Himalayan Tahr with commentary from an experienced pilot
  • Marvel at the crystal clear waters created from glacier snowmelt
  • Land at a breathtaking snow landing spot with 360-degree views of snow-covered mountains touching the sea coast

Know before you go

Duration
1 hour
Recommended for
All ages
Group
Private

What you'll do

Embark on an awe-inspiring helicopter tour soaring over the Southern Alps of New Zealand. The flight, which lasts roughly 45 minutes, will take you over the pristine Whitcombe Valley, where you'll marvel at six different glaciers nestled in the heart of the region. As you fly inland from Hokitika, your experienced pilot will offer a running commentary on the riveting history of this unparalleled landscape.

Your journey will take you to isolated locations famed for their rich deposits of Pounamu (greenstone) and gold. From high above, you may spot the historic huts of deer stalkers and, if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Himalayan Tahr, an exotic animal that calls the wild alpine range home.

As you continue your flight, you'll be mesmerized by the sight of crystal-clear water, a magnificent result of the melting glaciers. This spectacle offers a sweeping panorama of lush native bushland and striking alpine terrain. This bird's eye view of New Zealand's untouched beauty is sure to leave you spellbound.

As your journey approaches its end, prepare for a thrilling landing on a snowy mountain peak. Standing amidst the snow-covered alpine mountains that plunge into the West Coast sea, you'll experience an incredible 360-degree view that's nothing short of mind-blowing. This snow landing location encapsulates the purity and majesty of the New Zealand landscape, offering a truly unique experience.

Finally, as you journey home taking in the breathtaking sights one final time, you'll be left with a profound appreciation for New Zealand's natural beauty. This tour, which lasts approximately one hour in total, promises an unforgettable exploration of New Zealand's Southern Alps, an excursion that will forever remain etched in your memory.

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Like what you see?

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