Soaring Adventures Above the Franz Josef Glacier
Discover the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier from the air with The Helicopter Line – an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Franz Josef Glacier from the sky with The Helicopter Line. Enjoy stunning aerial views, exhilarating flights, and unforgettable memories in New Zealand's majestic landscape.
A brief summary to The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
- Main S Rd, Franz Josef / Waiau, 7856, NZ
- +6437520767
- Visit website
- Monday 7:15 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7:15 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7:15 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7:15 am-5 pm
- Friday 7:15 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7:15 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7:15 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your helicopter tour in advance, especially during peak season to secure your spot.
- Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes; the weather can change rapidly in this alpine region.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, but also enjoy the experience without distractions.
- Consider the heli-hike option for a unique adventure on the glacier itself.
- Check the weather conditions before your trip, as flights can be weather-dependent.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to The Helicopter Line in Franz Josef, start from Mount Cook Village. Take State Highway 80 south towards the Tasman Valley. After about 35 kilometers, merge onto State Highway 6. Continue on State Highway 6 for about 70 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Franz Josef / Waiau and Main South Road. The Helicopter Line will be located on Main South Road, just a short drive after entering the village. There is parking available nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach The Helicopter Line using public transport, board the bus service from Mount Cook Village heading towards Franz Josef. The bus will take you along State Highway 80, and then you will transfer to another bus at the Franz Josef bus stop, which operates regularly. Once you arrive at the Franz Josef bus stop, it’s a short 10-minute walk to The Helicopter Line located on Main South Road. Follow the road signs and enjoy the scenic views as you walk.
Discover more about The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef with convenient access to glacier adventures from Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your gateway to stunning landscapes.
Victoria Falls
14.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Empress Hut
23.4 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
24.7 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Ball Hut
26.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Copland Shelter
30.3 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Douglas Rock Hut
32.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Douglas Rock Hut, your perfect lodge in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Hooker Lake
32.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Sefton Bivouac
34.4 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
34.4 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
The Second Swing Bridge
35.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Cook National Park while crossing the iconic Second Swing Bridge, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mueller Lake
36.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
White Horse Hill Campground
37.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a true gem for nature lovers.
Mt Cook Chalets
38.9 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at the cozy Mt Cook Chalets, your perfect alpine getaway.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
38.9 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, where glaciers meet lush rainforests in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
0.1 km
Discover stunning landscapes of South Westland through the immersive HELIMAX movie experience at Franz Josef Cinema.
Glacier Country Helicopters
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's glaciers with unforgettable helicopter tours over Franz Josef.
Glacier Helicopters Franz Josef Glacier
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with unforgettable aerial views from Glacier Helicopters.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
0.1 km
Experience New Zealand's unique wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
0.2 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Tatare Tunnels Walk in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Callery Gorge Walk
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Terrace Walk
0.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and enchanting glow worms of Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-visit hiking destination.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Glacier, a must-visit destination in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
0.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park at its Visitor Centre, your gateway to adventure and exploration.
Skydive Franz
0.5 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Skydive Franz, where breathtaking views and thrilling descents create unforgettable memories in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Canavans Knob
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
FRANZ JOSEF
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand, home to stunning glaciers and lush alpine landscapes.
Start Alex Knob Trail
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
Essential places to dine
SnakeBite Brewery
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
0.2 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
0.3 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
15.8 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
15.8 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
15.8 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
The Last Kitchen
15.8 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
15.9 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
16.9 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
38.9 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
39.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blucod
0.0 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Four Square Franz Josef
0.0 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
0.1 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
William Apiaries (Honey)
2.9 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Packraft New Zealand
3.2 km
Embark on an unforgettable packrafting adventure in Franz Josef, New Zealand. Gear up at Packraft New Zealand for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Real Tin Toys
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
3.9 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
3.9 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
15.7 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Cafe Nevé
15.8 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
15.8 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
15.8 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
15.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
15.8 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
0.2 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
The Westhaven Motel
15.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
15.8 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
15.8 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
15.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Rainforest Motel
15.9 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
16.4 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
38.9 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
41.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Woodstock Hotel
96.1 km
Experience the best of local cuisine and craft brews at the Woodstock Hotel, a cozy bar and grill nestled in the heart of New Zealand's scenic landscape.
Kaniere Hotel
97.7 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
Railway Hotel
98.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Railway Hotel in Hokitika, a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local entertainment.
