Two Glaciers in a Single Flight
A twin glacier helicopter tour covers both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers in a single scenic flight — following each glacier from its valley terminus to its upper snowfield, crossing the forested divide between them, and providing the comparative perspective that a single-glacier flight cannot. The flight typically runs 30–40 minutes and includes views of the Southern Alps, and on clear days extends to Mount Cook/Aoraki and Mount Tasman.
The twin glacier format reveals how the two glaciers differ despite their proximity — Franz Josef is steeper and more dramatically crevassed; Fox is broader with a different flow character. Seeing both in a continuous flight, with the guide’s narration comparing them, provides an understanding of glacial dynamics that individual visits to each glacier do not.
Snow Landing Option
Most twin glacier flights offer a snow landing add-on — landing on the upper snowfield of one of the glaciers (or the high-altitude Ben Ohau snowfield between them) for 10–15 minutes of walking on the snow and photographing the alpine environment. The twin glacier with snow landing is the most comprehensive scenic helicopter experience in the region short of a heli-hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a twin glacier flight?
Approximately 30–40 minutes of flight time. With snow landing: approximately 40–50 minutes total. The full experience (check-in, briefing, flight, landing, return) runs approximately 1.5–2 hours.
How much does a twin glacier tour cost?
Approximately NZD 350–500 per person without snow landing, NZD 400–600 with snow landing.
Is the twin glacier flight better than a single-glacier flight?
The twin glacier flight covers more terrain and provides the comparison between the two glaciers. If your budget allows the upgrade from a single-glacier flight, the additional glacier and the extended flight time are worth the premium.