New Zealand · WINTER ACTIVITIES
Good winter activities fill up over summer; the great ones go first. Below: the 5 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Helicopter over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, with a snow landing and pilot commentary. Panoramic Southern Alps views in 35 mins.
“We were lucky to have a great day for the helicopter ride which I’m sure makes all the difference.”
A 35-minute helicopter hop over Franz Josef plus Fox or Tasman, with a weather-permitting snow landing for photos in a small group.
“The Franz Josef heli tour was absolutely incredible! We got to land on the snow and see multiple glaciers up close. Our pilot, Mark, was fantastic—he clearly knew the area well and shared interesting details about each glacier we flew over. The whole experience was unforgettable and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting!”
25-minute Franz Josef glacier helicopter with snow landing. Step onto an icefield, spot crevasses from above, and snap photos fast.
“Our 2pm flight was canceled due to cloud cover but the staff were able to put us on an 8am the next day. We had blue skies and wonderful conditions. It’s only a very short amount of time out of the helicopter, just enough time to get some pics and head back down. The flight itself was amazing, flying low over the glacier and up close to the waterfall.”
Twin Glacier helicopter flight in Franz Josef with snow landing on the ice, plus Fox Glacier views from the air and pilot narration.
“Waking to cloud cover only to see the skies clearing just in time to lift off and be able to land on the glacier..a stunning view of snow and ice and a truly amazing experience. Tim was our pilot and gave us an unforgettable and joyous trip.”
Queenstown Ice Bar beside Skyline Gondola. 1 hour, warm gear included, ice-carved rooms, premium cocktails or mocktails in ice glasses.
“Brilliant experience. Ice sculptures were incredible. The cocktails were absolutely delicious and boozy. The guide Lucy was so lovely & made it a great experience for myself and my friend. The music was great and smashing the ice cup at the end was the highlight for sure! Highly recommend this place !”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
