The rugged West Coast is hemmed between the Tasman Sea and the imposing Southern Alps, making for spectacular contrasts in the surrounding scenery.

Franz Josef Glacier, found in the stunning Westland National Park, is one of the most spectacular glaciers in this region. Combine an awesome scenic helicopter flight over the glacier with a unique guided walk amongst the ice caves, pinnacles and seracs of this pristine, alpine environment. You'll see the extraordinary colours of the ice-flow from above and then up close, on an unforgettable guided walk.

Your Heli Hike departs from The Helicopter Line's Franz Josef Glacier base, situated on the main road of Franz Josef Glacier. Franz Josef Glacier is located 2½ hours drive from the main West Coast centre of Greymouth.

The Helicopter Line offers the Heli Hike trip in conjunction with Franz Josef Glacier Guides. 
 

YOUR GLACIER GUIDE
The Helicopter line offers the Franz Josef Heli Hike in conjunction with Franz Josef Glacier Guides who have been operating since 1990 and can trace their heritage back 100 years. Your professional guide will lead you into the most spectacular icefall terrain that is usually seen only by experienced mountaineers. With a spotless safety record, rigid assessments, and using exclusive quality equipment, your safety and enjoyment is taken care of.

HIGHLIGHTS

10 minute helicopter flight to Franz Josef icefall

• Glacier landing and pickup
• 2 hour hike amongst glacial ice formations
• Professional and experienced guides
• All equipment provided (glacier boots, socks, ice crampons, an ice axe, waterproof jacket)

BRING THESE

• Warm upper body clothing (preferably 3 to 4 layers)
• Leggings or light trousers, although shorts are acceptable
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Waterproof jacket (one will be provided if you don't have one)
• A sense of fun and adventure!

DEPARTURE TIMES

• October to April 9.30am, 12 noon and 2.30pm
• May to September 11am and 1.30pm

PLEASE NOTE

• Moderate fitness required
• Minimum age is 10 years
• Our Heli Hike trips are weather-dependent. We will do our best to accommodate you, but occasionally cancellation may be unavoidable.

Duration - 3 Hours	$390 per person

DISTANCES
Greymouth - Franz Josef Glacier - 180 kilometres, 2½ hours drive south.
Queenstown - Franz Josef Glacier - 410 kilometres, 5 hours drive north-west.

PRICES
Prices are in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax of 12.5%. Major credit cards, travellers cheques and foreign currencies are accepted. Please see here for child prices. Prices are subject to change without notice. Pricing valid from 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010.