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Our incredible Mt. Cook adventures have landed

Glenorchy Air is excited to announce our new partnership with Mt. Cook Ski Planes and Helicopters, offering up an incredible range of Mt. Cook adventures departing daily with us from Queenstown.  

glenorchy air partnership with mount cook ski planes and helicopters

Encounter a flying experience like no other across New Zealand’s breathtakingly beautiful Southern Alps. Enjoy unparalleled views from the window seat of our fixed-wing aircraft as you fly through the most awe-inspiring landscapes. Marvel at the immense scale and spectacular grandeur of this beautiful region, including aerial views of the Tasman Glacier and summit ridge of Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s largest glacier and highest mountain.Landing in the heart of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, pick your adventure.  

SKI THE TASMAN

Combine our unforgettable scenic flight with the excitement and adrenaline-filled action of skiing on New Zealand’s biggest glacier. Carve your way down the 1000 metre descent on this one-of-a-kind ski slope, navigating the 8 – 10 km run, exploring incredible seracs and ice caves as you make your way down not once, but TWICE.The bucket list tick you probably didn’t even know existed. 

skiing the tasman glacier

TASMAN GLACIER HELI HIKE

Follow your flight across New Zealand’s entire Southern Alps with a two hour hike through the most spectacular glacier. Teaming up with your Mt. Cook Glacier Guiding professional to be dropped off on a remote part of the glacier to explore the amazing ice formations. No two trips are ever the same – the glacier is constantly changing so there is always something new and interesting to discover. An absolute NZ MUST DO!

heli hiking the tasman glacier

MT. COOK: FLY | EXPLORE | FLY

Embrace the opportunity to not only see The Tasman Glacier from the air, but experience the grandeur with 600 metres of glacier ice beneath your feet. It’s an unforgettable experience when the aircraft shuts down its engine, leaving you in the serene silence that this jaw-dropping beauty has to offer.A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

inflite helicopter snow landing

Whichever you choose your knowledgeable, highly skilled Glenorchy Air pilot will be waiting for you at the Aoraki/Mt. Cook aerodrome to finish off your day with interesting and informative commentary during your return flight to Queenstown. 

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Hear from Our Happy Customers – Mt. Cook

At Glenorchy Air, we pride ourselves on providing unforgettable scenic flight experiences over some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. But don’t just take our word for it – hear from our happy passengers! Here are some testimonials that capture the magic of flying with Glenorchy Air to Milford Sound.

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Scenic Flights
How long is this trip?

This is a Half Day experience. From check in 30 minutes before departure, to landing back at Queenstown Airport, is approximately 5 to 5 1/2 hours. Please note, this does not include time for self-driving or using our complimentary transfers. If you have plans immediately either side of your experience with us, please let us know.

What time is best to fly?

It’s always a good time to fly! If the option is there, we would suggest either our 9.00am or 1.30pm departures. Please note, our 1.30pm departure time is only available at certain times of the year. Whilst we cannot guarantee it, Milford Sound can sometimes be a little bit quieter at these times.

What should I bring?

We suggest you bring the following with you to make it a great day out:

  • Any essential medication
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera – make sure it’s fully charged
  • Warm clothing layers – you’ll want to enjoy the open-air viewing decks where it can get chilly
  • Sensible footwear
  • Bottle of water
How long is the scenic flight?

Your flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound are approximately 40 minutes each way.

How long is the cruise?

Your Nature Cruise through Milford Sound with our partners Southern Discoveries is 1 hour 45 mins.

Is food included with the cruise?

No, lunch is not included. When making your booking online, you have the option to add a picnic lunch for an additional cost that will be ready for you on the cruise. We have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available.

Complimentary tea, coffee and water is available. A selection of small snacks are available to purchase onboard. You are also welcome to bring snacks of your own.

Is there an indoor area on the cruise?

Yes, the cruise has a large indoor area with comfortable seating and tables.

What will I see on the cruise?

Your cruise through Milford Sound is on a boat with a large open-top deck and comfy interior cabins with full-height windows for optimal viewing. Take in the stunning scenery of Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Copper Point, and the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and penguins.

Is the cruise suitable for an infant?

We would say the cruise is suitable for all ages.

Is there a nappy changing facility/station available inside the cruise?

Yes, there is a nappy changing facility onboard the cruise.

What happens if the weather prevents us from flying back to Queenstown?

Our pilots will always look at the forecast for the full duration of your trip and if we feel like the weather may change, we will not leave Queenstown. Due to the weather-dependent nature of flying in the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, it is unfortunate that there are very rare occasions where the forecast changes on us and although uncommon, it can be a case that we are unable to operate the return flight. The safety of our passengers is always our highest priority and in the unlikely event that this ever occurs, we will arrange coach transfers back to Queenstown. We fully appreciate the inconvenience this will cause and do everything we can to look after our passengers.