The GRAND Tour, Snow Landing (Allow 40 Minutes – Departing Franz Josef)

Soaring over the majestic landscapes of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, the GRAND Tour, Snow Landing offers adventure-seekers an unforgettable aerial experience. Departing from Franz Josef, this 40-minute helicopter tour showcases the region’s crown jewels – the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, Mount Tasman, and Aoraki Mount Cook. With an impressive 5.0 customer rating, the tour promises exceptional pilot expertise and an intimate journey for up to six participants. For those seeking to enjoy New Zealand’s natural wonders from a unique vantage point, this tour is a must-consider. What else might this remarkable experience have in store?

Key Points

• A 40-minute helicopter tour departing from Franz Josef, providing close-up views of iconic glaciers, mountains, and the Tasman Glacier.
• Exclusive snow landing rights in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, offering a unique and unforgettable aerial adventure.
• Maximum group size of 6 participants for an intimate experience, with discounted pricing for children under 13.
• Experienced, knowledgeable pilots ensure passenger safety and comfort while showcasing the stunning natural landscapes.
• Consistently praised by customers for the tour’s exceptional quality, professionalism in handling weather-related challenges, and overall satisfaction.

Tour Overview

The GRAND TOUR is a 40-minute helicopter experience departing from Franz Josef, offering travelers a close view of New Zealand’s iconic glaciers – Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

The tour also includes stunning sights of Mount Tasman, Aoraki Mount Cook, and Tasman Glacier, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Operated by the only local company authorized to land on snow within Westland Tai Poutini National Park, the GRAND TOUR promises an unforgettable aerial adventure.

Travelers can expect a pre-flight safety briefing and the option to purchase souvenir photos, making this a comprehensive and well-organized experience.

Tour Features and Pricing

Travelers can choose from a 40-minute tour duration, with a maximum group size of 6 participants. The tour is priced from $359.53, and children under 13 fly at a 30% discount.

Plus, souvenir photos are available for purchase, and a pre-flight safety briefing is included. This short but breathtaking helicopter experience departs from either Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, offering close-up views of New Zealand’s iconic glaciers, including Franz Josef, Fox, Mount Tasman, Aoraki Mount Cook, and Tasman Glacier.

The tour operator is the only one authorized to land on snow within Westland Tai Poutini National Park, ensuring a truly unique and memorable experience for all.

Meeting and Accessibility

Centrally located departure points in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier provide convenient access to the GRAND Tour experience.

Ample parking is available at both locations, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the flight.

The tour’s close proximity to public transportation makes it easily accessible for visitors.

Whether you’re looking to capture stunning aerial shots of the glaciers or simply experience the beauty of the Southern Alps from a bird’s eye view, the GRAND Tour offers a hassle-free and inclusive adventure.

With its thoughtful considerations for accessibility, the tour ensures that guests of all abilities can participate in this unforgettable helicopter experience.

Customer Experience

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the GRAND Tour, with 26 reviews earning a perfect 5.0 rating. Positive feedback consistently highlights the stunning scenery, knowledgeable pilots, and excellent customer service provided throughout the experience.

Customers report a truly memorable experience, with many considering the helicopter tour a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The tour’s professionalism is further evident in how the staff manages weather-related challenges, rescheduling tours when necessary and offering refunds for differences in pricing when conditions affect the experience.

Weather and Refund Policies

The tour operator readily reschedules tours when weather conditions require it, and their customer service team assists travelers with any necessary changes.

They keep a close eye on the forecast and will proactively notify guests if a tour needs to be rescheduled.

If the tour is affected by the weather, customers receive a refund for any difference in pricing.

The staff’s professionalism in managing these weather-related challenges has been consistently praised by past passengers.

Guests appreciate the operator’s commitment to safety and satisfaction, ensuring a memorable experience despite unpredictable conditions.

Scenic Highlights

Departing from Franz Josef, the GRAND TOUR offers unparalleled views of New Zealand’s iconic glaciers, including the awe-inspiring Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Soaring over the rugged terrain, the tour also provides glimpses of the majestic Mount Tasman, the towering Aoraki Mount Cook, and the expansive Tasman Glacier, presenting ample opportunities for breathtaking photography.

Scenic Highlights	Description
Franz Josef Glacier	Iconic, dynamic glacier carving through the Southern Alps
Fox Glacier	Magnificent, pristine glacier surrounded by rugged peaks
Mount Tasman	Towering, snow-capped peak second only to Aoraki Mount Cook
Aoraki Mount Cook	Impressive, iconic mountain, the highest in New Zealand

Experienced Pilots

Skilled pilots helming the GRAND Tour ensure guests experience the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes with the utmost safety and professionalism.

The team of experienced pilots boasts:

1. Extensive training and certifications, allowing them to safely navigate the dynamic mountain environment.

2. Thorough knowledge of the local terrain, weather patterns, and glacier conditions, enabling them to make informed decisions.

3. Exceptional communication skills, keeping passengers informed and at ease throughout the entire tour.

With their expertise and dedication, the pilots provide an unforgettable journey, showcasing the natural wonders of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers while prioritizing the comfort and security of every traveler.

Memorable Opportunity

A truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the GRAND Tour offers travelers an unparalleled chance to witness the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s iconic glaciers from a unique aerial perspective.

This 40-minute helicopter experience takes guests on a captivating journey, showcasing the majestic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, as well as the stunning Aoraki Mount Cook and Tasman Glacier.

Customers consistently praise the tour’s ability to deliver a truly memorable experience, with many describing it as the highlight of their New Zealand adventure.

With knowledgeable pilots, stunning scenery, and excellent customer service, the GRAND Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s not to be missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear for the Helicopter Tour?

Dress in warm, layered clothing as the helicopter will be flying at high altitudes where temperatures can be cool. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes during the flight. The tour operator will provide any necessary safety gear.

Can I Bring My Own Camera/Drone on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own cameras on the helicopter tour, but drones are not allowed. The tour company recommends using a DSLR or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery. Drone use is prohibited for safety and regulatory reasons.

Is There a Weight Limit for Passengers?

There’s a 295 lb (135 kg) weight limit per passenger for the GRAND Tour. Passengers are weighed during check-in, and the helicopter’s weight capacity is carefully managed to ensure a safe and comfortable flight experience.

Do I Need Prior Helicopter Experience to Join the Tour?

No, prior helicopter experience is not required to join the tour. The tour operator provides a pre-flight safety briefing to ensure all passengers are prepared for the helicopter flight, regardless of their previous experience.

How Long Does It Take to Get to the Landing Site?

The tour takes around 40 minutes from the departure point to reach the landing site on the glacier. The flight time allows passengers to enjoy stunning aerial views of the iconic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

Recap

The Grand Tour, Snow Landing is an unforgettable aerial experience that showcases the breathtaking landscapes of Franz Josef and Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

With a trusted operator, expert pilots, and rave reviews, this 40-minute helicopter tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s iconic glaciers, mountains, and natural wonders from the sky.

It’s a must-do activity for any visitor seeking an awe-inspiring adventure in New Zealand.