Glenorchy Glacier Express

  $765 per person

  40 minute experience

 

Explore the pristine blue ice of the Glacier Express

Craving an unforgettable alpine adventure? Our Glacier Express Scenic Flight takes you deep into the wild, where glaciers, waterfalls, and sweeping vistas await.

Lifting off from Glenorchy, soaring over the sparkling waters of Lake Whakatipu and the breathtaking landscapes beyond. As you venture near Mount Aspiring National Park, marvel at hidden alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and the rugged glacial terrain that defines this pristine wilderness. Along the way, you may even meet a member of the Southern Lakes Sanctuary conservation team, gaining insight into the incredible work protecting native wildlife and ecosystems.

Step onto a remote glacier and stand on freshly powdered snow, surrounded by untouched alpine beauty. Witness up close the awe-inspiring sculpting of nature across the Southern Alps, with pristine glaciers stretching as far as the eye can see—offering views and photo opportunities that few ever experience.

After your landing, hop back on board for a scenic flight home, giving one last chance to take in the grandeur of Mount Aspiring and Lake Whakatipu from above. Whether you’re chasing adventure or seeking awe-inspiring serenity, the Glacier Express is a once-in-a-lifetime alpine experience.


What will you experience on the Glacier Explorer Scenic Flight?

  • Perfect for photography, adventure, and unforgettable memories
  • Journey through Mount Aspiring National Park’s untouched wilderness
  • Incredible aerial views over Lake Whakatipu and alpine landscapes
  • Step onto a remote glacier and explore ancient blue ice
  • Learn from expert pilots and conservationists along the way
  • Glacier landings available year-round (weather dependent)

 


40 minute experience


Glacier landing


Snow


Glaciers


Mountains


Blue Ice


Scenic Drive

The prices listed below are for our shared departures, so other guests will be on your flight. Our prices also change subject to change annually.

Adult (12+): $765 per person

Child (3-11): $540 per person

Infant: (0-2): $385 per person

Prices are valid from 1 April 2026 - 30 September 2027. On our shared departures, you may be in a helicopter with up to 9 people.

We have private charter rates available for our Squirrel helicopters, our twin-engine Squirrels and our 9-seater BK (upon request).

Charters are a great option for bigger groups, or if you would like a more intimate experience.

Find out more about our fleet.

Squirrel (up to 6 passengers): $3,825 per helicopter

Prices are valid from 1 April 2026 - 30 September 2027.

We offer complimentary return transport from Central Queenstown. Please make sure to book this in addition to your flight experience. If you are self-driving, we are based in Glenorchy at 35 Mull Street and we have plenty of parking available. After you have checked in, you will make your way to Glenorchy Aerodrome for your flight.

  • Wear comfortable covered shoes
  • Bring along or wear warm clothing, including a jacket
  • Remember to bring your camera, sunscreen and sunglasses

Bookings
• We recommend booking in advance via our online booking calendar.
• For the purpose of aircraft weight and balance and in accordance with the Civil Aviation Authority rules and regulations, we require all passenger weights at the time of booking. Once we have received and reviewed this information we will be able to confirm the booking.
• Our booking system will ask for your credit card details, which are securely stored to confirm your booking, however we will not charge your card until the day of your booking.
• Please note a surcharge will be incurred for credit and contactless payments.

Your flight
• You will need to contact us one hour prior to your departure time for a weather check.
• Minimum passenger numbers are required for all scenic flights. We reserve the right to upgrade passengers or merge flights for operational reasons or flight management purposes if required.
• Flights depart on demand and are subject to availability.
• Flights depart from our Heli Glenorchy base in Glenorchy.
• Advertised times away, flight and landing times are approximate and can be subject to weather conditions. On occasion, flight paths and landing locations may change at the pilot’s discretion.

Pricing
• Our prices change annually from 1 October. Please select your preferred date of travel on our booking system or view the pricing section to view pricing schedules.
• Prices are in $NZD currency and include Goods and Services Tax.
• We reserve the right to change prices at any time without further notice. However, if we have confirmed an advance booking the quoted price will not be altered.

Payments
• We accept EFTPOS, Visa, Mastercard and cash. Please note a surcharge will be incurred for credit and contactless payments.

Cancellations
• Any cancellations made within 24 hours of departure will incur a 50% cancellation fee. If passengers ‘no-show’ for a flight, 100% of the fare will apply. If we cannot operate due to weather and as a result, passengers are unable to fly, no cancellation fees will apply.

 

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