Meet your pilot-guide and get outfitted with the necessary equipment, including glacier boots and an ice axe.
Then board the helicopter and put on a provided 2-way headset that allows you to hear your pilot's commentary about the sights. As you take off, enjoy stunning views of Mt Cook (aka Aoraki, the native Maori name) and the Southern Alps, and then fly high above Tasman Glacier, an impressive 17-mile-long (27-km) natural wonder. While you look down, note the waters of Tasman Lake, which started forming in the 1970s due to melting glacial ice; it now measures more than 4 miles long (7 km), and scientists predict that it will continue to grow from more glacier melt.
After soaring over snowcapped mountains and pristine blue and white ice, you'll land high up on the glacier. Hop out of the helicopter and begin your 2-hour hike, following your guide through the spectacular frozen landscape and gaining access to areas that normally only skilled mountaineers can reach.
Tromp over the ice to see dramatic pinnacles, ice caves, crevasses and seracs, all the while learning about the history and geology of Tasman Glacier. If conditions allow, you can duck into an ice cave to experience the otherworldly blue ice from the inside. You may also have the chance to taste pure glacier water and peer into deep crevasses.
Enjoy plenty of time for photo ops during your hike, and then return to your helicopter for the ride back to town. Your tour ends with drop-off at your hotel.
Safety and helicopters:
The local tour operator uses well-maintained, high-quality equipment and boasts an excellent safety record. Your enjoyment and safety always come first.
Aircraft:
The fleetof modern Airbus helicopters specifically configured for flying in New Zealand's outstanding National Parks, glaciers, lakes, mountains and valleys. The Helicopter Line has the highest levels of Civil Aviation Authority certification for scenic helicopter operations, this involves regular monitoring and audit of all aspects of the operations.