exclusive tasman encounter

a Tailored glacier Helihike experience

Duration

7 Hours

Season

October thru May

Gearlist

View gearlist

PRICE FROM $1,375 NZD

exclusive tasman encounter

Join us on a full-day private heli-hike on the Huapapa Tasman Glacier, surrounded by the spectacle of New Zealand’s highest mountains. This is Alpine Guides’ tailored ice experience for small groups and families. You have exclusive use of a helicopter and a personal glacier guide for the day. The options are endless on this highlight of your visit to Aoraki Mount Cook.

First up, you will enjoy a thrilling scenic helicopter flight to the “white ice” of the Glacier. Then, your NZMGA-certified guide will take you on an exploratory journey through the labyrinth of natural ice features.

You can safely view crevasses, moulins, blue ice caves*, and other amazing natural features. Your guide’s intimate knowledge of the glaciers, local history, ecology, and mountains of New Zealand make the trip a true encounter with the forces of nature.

A gourmet picnic lunch will be taken, before continuing your exploration. As the trip is privately booked, you can make your day as adventurous, or as relaxed as you wish. There is plenty to see and do at any skill level.

Your day will finish with an awe-inspiring scenic flight out, hovering over the landscape of glaciated peaks of Ka Tiritiri o Te Moana, the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

*The natural ice features of the Tasman Glacier are carved by the weather. They change constantly, across the seasons, and even day to day. Every Tasman Encounter is a unique experience. Ice caves are not guaranteed.

Group Size Price per person in NZD
1 Person $4,600
2 People $2,550 per person
3 People $1,725 per person
4 People $1,525 per person
5 People $1,375 per person

Groups of 6 or more require 2 guides and an additional helicopter load. Contact us for pricing.

Pricing and Inclusions

All trips start at 09:00 AM.

Check-in at Alpine Guides' office in Mount Cook Village.

How to book

Please, contact us with your date of choice. We will confirm guide availability.

What’s Included

  • Qualified professional glacier guide

  • Two scenic helicopter flights

  • Incredible mountain, glacier, and lake views

  • Gourmet lunch on the ice

  • Up to 5 hours on the glacier

  • All technical snow and ice equipment is provided

Minimum Age

You need to be at least 12 years of age to participate. Minors need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian 18 years or older.

Please see our full booking conditions below.

Operating Season

Tasman Encounters run from spring to autumn (October through to May). We do not run this trip during the winter months.

Ability required and itinerary

Ability Required

The Exclusive Tasman Encounter is for adventurous travelers seeking the remote beauty of the glaciers. We let you set the pace, and take time to soak in the spectacular landscape of the Tasman Valley.

The pace is tailored to your needs - as to how challenging, or relaxed you want it to be. Because it is a private experience, there is no pressure to go faster (or slower) from people you don't know. 

Ability Checklist

  • “Average” or better fitness level

  • Able to walk with a small backpack on uneven terrain

  • Have a good sense of balance

  • Able to climb and descend stairs without using your hands

  • Good flexibility - you may need to crouch and move through some smaller spaces

  • Happy to be in the elements for up to 5 hours

Exclusive Tasman Encounter Itinerary

All times are approximate

09:00 Check-in. Meet your glacier guide at Alpine Guides’ base. We sort the technical gear and run an in-depth safety briefing before driving to Mount Cook Airport. You will be in the elements for up to 5 hours.

10:30 Fly on to the glacier to start your unforgettable experience

15:30 (approx) Take a scenic flight back to the airport

16:00 (approx.) Back at Alpine Guides to end your trip

Times are approximate. We reserve the right to alter itineraries to work around the weather, or guest abilities and requirements.

Booking Conditions

The Exclusive Tasman Encounter has different booking conditions than our mountaineering program. When you book it is assumed you have read, and are happy with our terms and conditions. All guests must sign a waiver at check-in. 

A 25% deposit is required to secure your booking. Full payment is due within 21 days.

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A group of people sitting on a balcony over a sign reading 'Alpine Guides' with a background of mountains and trees.
Two climbers in snow-covered mountains, wearing helmets and backpacks, standing on a peak.
Topographic map with Suunto compass placed on it, showing various contour lines and geographic features.