Standing on the Snowfield
A snow landing tour is a helicopter scenic flight that includes a landing on the glacier’s upper snowfield — you step out of the helicopter onto the alpine snow, walk around the landing zone, photograph the mountain environment, and absorb the silence and the scale of the Southern Alps before re-boarding for the return flight. The snow landing is the middle option between a scenic flyover (no landing) and a heli-hike (extended ice walk): you experience the glacier surface without the 2–4 hour hiking commitment.
What a Snow Landing Involves
The flight (20–40 minutes total flying time) follows the same route as a scenic flight — overflying the glacier from the valley to the upper snowfield, with views of the ice formations, the surrounding peaks, and (on clear days) Mount Cook and the Tasman Sea.
The landing (approximately 10–15 minutes on the snow) gives you time to walk around the landing zone, photograph the mountain panorama, make a snowball, and experience the quiet of the high alpine environment. The altitude is typically 1,500–2,500 metres, and the temperature can be significantly colder than the valley below.
Return flight follows the glacier back to the heliport, often on a different route to show additional scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a snow landing different from a heli-hike?
A snow landing includes 10–15 minutes on the snow at a single landing zone. A heli-hike includes a 2–4 hour guided walk on the glacier with crampons, exploring ice caves and crevasses. The snow landing is shorter, less physical, and less expensive. The heli-hike is the more immersive ice experience.
How much does a snow landing tour cost?
Approximately NZD 300–450 per person depending on the flight duration and the glacier covered.
Do I need special clothing for a snow landing?
Warm layers, gloves, and a warm hat. Sunglasses are essential (the snow glare is intense). Operators may provide basic outerwear. The landing zone is snow-covered — waterproof footwear is recommended.
Is a snow landing suitable for all ages?
Yes. No physical fitness or mobility is required beyond stepping out of the helicopter and standing on the snow. The experience is accessible to virtually all ages and ability levels.