Discover one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences at the West Coast Wildlife Centre — voted one of Lonely Planet’s 12 must-see attractions. Located in Franz Josef, this award-winning indoor, all-weather facility is home to Little Blue Penguins (kororā), the world’s rarest kiwi, and living Tuatara. Get guaranteed daytime kiwi viewing in our nocturnal house, explore the world-class Ambassador Penguin Encounter, and meet New Zealand’s iconic “living fossil.” Enjoy interactive glacier storytelling zones, the best shopping in Franz Josef, free Wi-Fi, and Tripadvisor-recommended coffee in our café. Perfect for all ages and any weather, this is a must-do experience for wildlife lovers, families, and travellers looking to connect with Aotearoa’s unique natural world.

Franz Josef Glacier including snow landing (allow 20 minutes) Fly from our Franz Josef Heliport to the top of the Franz Josef icefall and land on the snow for fantastic photographic opportunities. This entry level flight will show you why so many are impressed by the sheer crevasses and pinicles that form the ice scapes of the Franz Josef Glacier. Be sure to book from the correct departure location (Franz Josef)

Immerse yourself in Lake Matheson's beauty with Glacier Valley Eco Tours' Lake Matheson Nature Tour. Nestled in ancient forest, the lake offers stunning mirror views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Departing from Franz Josef Glacier, we’ll drive you to Fox Glacier (30 minutes) or pick you up in Fox Glacier. This Great Short Walk meanders around the lake on a well-formed track, crossing bridges and boardwalks over mountain streams, suitable for all ages. Our knowledgeable guides share insights into the lake's history and the conditions creating its reflections. Join us in the early evening for the best views. Experience Lake Matheson's serene magic.

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days. On our PRIVATE Ultimate Discovery flight you'll see the three "big" glaciers. You'll fly over the Franz Josef, Fox & Tasman Glaciers and fly into the Southern Alps to see Mount Cook and enjoy the included 15-minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 45 minutes. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office. Please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may end up sharing check in and van travel with other passengers on differing flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.

On our private Glacier Explorer flight, you'll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier and then into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10-minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time: approx. 25 minutes. Please allow an extra 45 minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to the helicopter, loading, unloading, and returning to our office. Please note that while this is a private flight, you may share the check-in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. The total weight of the passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.

On this private Pilots Choice flight you'll see two of the three "big" glaciers. You'll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier then over either the Fox Glacier or Tasman Glacier past Mount Cook and fly into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 35 minutes. We are a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office. Please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014, and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days. On our PRIVATE Mt Cook Supreme flight you'll fly over the Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman Glaciers and fly into the Southern Alps to see Mount Cook and enjoy two included 10-minute landings - the first a snow landing for photos and the second on the Shackleton Glacier. Total experience time approx. 60 minutes. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office. Please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share the check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.

We welcome you to discover the extraordinary Shackleton Glacier and the fascinating story of its namesake's Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition. This 50-minute flight includes flying over the Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers. Fly past Mount Cook & Mount Tasman and then through the Southern Alps where the ""Lighting of The Beacons"" was filmed for Lord of the Rings. You'll have an included 15minute snow landing on the Shackleton Glacier where a complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey available to those who want to sample. We are a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef and please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share the check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.