Glacier Sightseeing

Soar above ancient rivers of ice on a scenic flight or hike the terminal face of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers – glacier sightseeing from Christchurch is an unforgettable alpine adventure. The Southern Alps' glaciers, including the famous Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, are just a short flight or drive away, offering jaw-dropping views of crevasses, ice caves, and snow-capped peaks. Whether you choose a helicopter tour with a snow landing or a guided walk on the ice, this is a bucket-list experience that showcases the raw power of nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Franz Josef Glacier – Take a helicopter tour that lands on the ice, where you can walk among towering ice formations and meltwater streams.
• Fox Glacier – Similar to its neighbor but less crowded, offering equally stunning ice vistas and a chance to see the glacier's terminal face up close.
• Scenic Flights from Christchurch – Fixed-wing or helicopter flights that provide a bird's-eye view of the entire glacier region, including Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier.
• Glacier Hot Pools – Soak in natural hot pools at Franz Josef after your ice adventure, surrounded by rainforest.
• Okarito Lagoon – A tranquil kayak or boat trip on this coastal lagoon, home to white herons and offering views of the glaciers in the distance.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you're based in Christchurch, dedicate a full day for a round-trip scenic flight (around 4–6 hours including transfers) or plan a 2–3 day road trip to the West Coast to fully experience Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Morning flights often have clearer skies, so aim for an early departure. For guided ice hikes, allow at least half a day on the glacier itself plus travel time.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Cook National Park – Home to New Zealand's highest peak and the Tasman Glacier, with hiking trails and stargazing.
• West Coast Towns (Hokitika, Greymouth) – Quaint gold-rush towns with pounamu (greenstone) galleries and wild beaches.
• Arthur's Pass National Park – A scenic alpine pass with short walks and kea parrot sightings, en route from Christchurch to the glaciers.
• Lake Matheson – A reflective lake near Fox Glacier that offers mirror images of Mount Cook and the glacier.

Please check official sources for current details.