Franz Josef: Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks

Comprehensive Review: Franz Josef Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks

Travelers craving a truly special way to see New Zealand’s stunning Southern Alps might find the Franz Josef: Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks a compelling choice. Offered by INFLITE Mt Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters, this 90-minute adventure combines the thrill of a private helicopter ride with the serene pleasure of a glacier-side picnic. It’s a high-end experience, but one that promises spectacular scenery and unique memories—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a bucket-list moment.

What stands out most about this experience are the mind-blowing views of glaciers and mountains and the personalized nature of the private group setting. You and up to five friends will enjoy an intimate flight, soaring over some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. The highlight is landing on the Tasman Glacier, the longest in the country, where a carefully arranged picnic awaits amid the snow and peaks. That said, the experience isn’t exactly budget-friendly, and the weather can sometimes throw a wrench in the plans. Still, if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends scenic grandeur with comfort, this tour is hard to beat.

Ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick glimpse of the mountains, this trip is perfect if you’re after authentic, awe-inspiring scenery combined with a touch of luxury. It’s particularly suitable for those celebrating a special occasion or anyone eager to see New Zealand from a perspective few get to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive private group: Up to six people, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Spectacular scenery: Fly past Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, Mount Cook, and native rainforests.
• Unique glacier landing: Land on the Tasman Glacier for a snow-bound picnic.
• Photo opportunities: Plenty of chances for stunning pictures and videos.
• Environmental commitment: Only certified Carbon Zero operator on the West Coast.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting from Franz Josef Heliport, the adventure begins with a scenic flight crossing the main divide of the Southern Alps. As you lift off, you’ll immediately notice the dramatic contrast between lush rainforests and towering snow-capped peaks. The pilot, who is typically quite knowledgeable and enthusiastic, will point out landmarks like the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers—two of the most recognizable glaciers on the West Coast—and other notable sights such as La Peruse and Belfour Glaciers.

The flight itself is part of the thrill. We loved the way the helicopter effortlessly rose above the rugged terrain, giving us a bird’s-eye view of the native rainforest stretching below. The scenery is simply breathtaking, with every turn revealing a new postcard-perfect landscape. The pilot’s commentary, based on reviews, is often described as informative and friendly, enhancing the experience and helping you understand what you’re seeing.

Mid-flight, the helicopter will descend to land on the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand. This private landing is the real star of the tour. Once on the ice, a setup is arranged for your glacier picnic. Imagine sitting on the snow, surrounded by towering peaks, with a selection of local cuisine in front of you. The quiet and the majesty of the snow-covered landscape make for a moment of pure serenity. You’ll have plenty of time for photos—many travelers comment on how stunning the vistas are, perfect for capturing memories.

After enjoying your meal and taking in the scenery, the helicopter will take you back past Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, giving you a final look at some of New Zealand’s highest peaks. The return journey crosses the divide and heads back over lush rainforests, giving you one last dose of the wild beauty that makes this part of the world so special.

The Value and Practical Considerations

At $1,788 per group, this is not a cheap outing. But considering the exclusivity, the private group setting, the helicopter flight, and the gourmet picnic, many would argue it offers excellent value for a special splurge. The flight duration of around 90 minutes is a generous timespan, especially given the remote landing on the glacier. The experience is designed to deliver both visual splendor and personalized service.

Weather is a key factor here. Since the tour relies heavily on clear skies and stable conditions, it’s wise to check availability and be flexible with your schedule. The company states that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is a good safety net if weather conditions aren’t cooperating.

The tour is ideal for small private groups, ensuring a more intimate experience. It’s also perfect for those who want a high-end adventure—something that feels special, exclusive, and memorable. Keep in mind, you need to bring warm clothing, as it can be quite cold on the glacier even in summer.

The Experience Provider and Sustainability

INFLITE Mt Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters pride themselves on being the only certified Carbon Zero aviation operator on the West Coast. This commitment adds a layer of peace of mind for environmentally conscious travelers, knowing that their flight minimizes carbon footprint.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and knowledge of the guides and pilots, who enhance the trip with interesting commentary. They also emphasize the stunning views and the uniqueness of landing on the glacier—an experience few other operators offer.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who seek a luxury experience blended with natural beauty. It’s perfect for anniversaries, special celebrations, or anyone eager to see New Zealand’s stunning glaciers from the air and the ground. It works well for those comfortable with a bit of cold and who value personalized, private tours.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective sightseeing option or prefer more adventurous, physically active activities, this might not be the best fit. But for those wanting to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience with incredible scenery and privacy, it’s a superb choice.

The Sum Up

The Franz Josef Helicopter – Picnic Amongst the Peaks offers an extraordinary way to experience New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The stunning views, the private glacier landing, and the gourmet picnic combine into a memorable adventure that few can match. It’s a splurge, yes, but for the chance to soar past glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and native rainforests, many travelers will find it worth every penny.

This experience is best suited for those who value exclusivity, breathtaking scenery, and a sense of adventure with a touch of luxury. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to gift yourself a remarkable memory, this tour delivers abundant WOW moments.

For the serious nature lover or budget traveler, it might feel like a stretch, but for anyone with a love of scenery and a sense of adventure, this is a bucket-list-worthy experience.

FAQs

How many people can participate in this tour?
It is designed for private groups of up to 6 people, which makes it ideal for friends, families, or couples wanting a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the return helicopter transfers and the picnic on the glacier. There are no hidden fees, and the experience is quite comprehensive for the price.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the helicopter flight, the glacier landing, and the picnic.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to wear warm clothing, as it can be cold on the glacier, even during summer months.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather conditions can affect the flight, so flexibility is recommended.

Is this experience eco-friendly?
Yes, INFLITE is the only certified Carbon Zero aviation operator on the West Coast, meaning they make efforts to offset their carbon emissions.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While the tour is private and flexible, the cold conditions and the helicopter setting might not be ideal for very young children. It’s best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and flying.

This helicopter tour offers a rare chance to see New Zealand’s most majestic glaciers from above and below—an adventure that’s as much about the scenery as it is about creating unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: