About this tour
A 45-minute to one-hour helicopter tour from Hokitika that visits six glaciers in a single flight, operated by a small boutique company based at Hokitika Gorge. You'll see multiple alpine glacier systems from the air — a scope that sets this tour apart from single-glacier flights in the region. Suitable for all fitness levels, and wheelchair accessible on the ground. Located about three hours' drive from Christchurch.
Highlights
- Six different glaciers viewed in one flight, not a single site
- Helicopter departs from Hokitika Gorge, adjacent to free walking track
- Single-aircraft operation keeps groups small and intimate
- Wheelchair accessible facilities and transport options available
- All fitness levels welcome; infants can travel on adult laps
- Alpine scenery across multiple glacier systems in 45–60 minutes
- Service animals permitted on board
What to expect
You'll arrive at the Hokitika Gorge airfield, where the operator briefs you on safety and boarding procedures. The helicopter takes off and heads into the Southern Alps, tracking across six distinct glacier valleys in sequence. You'll see ice formations, peaks, and alpine terrain from the air as the pilot navigates between sites — the flight is designed to maximise glacier coverage rather than linger on one. You land back at Hokitika Gorge; the whole experience, including check-in and any pre-flight admin, fits within the 45–60 minute window.
The tour operates weather-dependent (alpine conditions can change), so you may need flexibility around your booking. Landing and facility fees are included; you'll arrange your own transport to and from the airfield or use nearby public transport options.
What travellers say
- Multiple glaciers in one flight — efficiency that single-site tours don't match
- Small, boutique operation feels personal and unhurried
- Hokitika Gorge location adds scenic ground experience before or after
- Wheelchair and accessibility provisions genuinely in place
- Weather-flexible bookings respect alpine unpredictability
- Alpine weather can trigger delays or rescheduling without notice
- Three-hour Christchurch drive limits it as a spontaneous half-day option
- Lunch not included; timing between ground and flight needs planning
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This suits anyone wanting an efficient alpine glacier overview from the air without a full-day commitment. It's also a strong option if you have limited mobility — the ground facilities are wheelchair accessible, though the helicopter itself requires boarding via steps. Children and infants are welcome; small children can travel in a pram at the base, and infants sit on an adult's lap during flight. Practical notes: lunch is not included, so eat before or after. Weather can delay or reschedule flights (common in alpine regions). The three-hour drive from Christchurch is substantial if you're day-tripping. Group size isn't specified, but the single-aircraft model keeps numbers modest. No hidden costs beyond landing fees, which are already built in.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BookNow summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.