Rakaia Glaciers

If you’re dreaming of seeing some of New Zealand’s most dramatic glaciers and mountain scenery from a unique perspective, the Rakaia Glaciers helicopter tour offers an adventure that’s as spectacular as it sounds. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it’s worth the investment, especially if you’re after stunning visuals and a memorable flight.

What really draws us to this tour are two key things: First, the chance to fly over legendary sites like the Tasman Glacier and the Rakaia River—some of Canterbury’s most iconic landscapes. Second, the opportunity to land on Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers, which are rarely accessible, making this a rare experience in the world of glacier sightseeing. One thing to keep in mind, though, is the high price point—over $2,500 per person—which makes it a splurge. But if you’re serious about experiencing New Zealand’s wilderness from the sky, this could well be a highlight of your trip. This tour suits adventurous travelers who value exclusive access and breathtaking views, and it’s a great pick if you’re comfortable with the cost for a premium experience.

Key Points

• Incredible aerial views of the Southern Alps, braided rivers, and glaciers
• Exclusive landings on Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers, rarely visited
• Flexible booking with group discounts and a mobile ticket option
• About 3 hours total, with over 2 hours of flight time
• Weather-dependent, with a flexible cancellation policy
• High price point, reflecting the private, premium nature of the experience

An Overview of What To Expect

This helicopter tour promises a three-hour journey over some of New Zealand’s most stunning and hard-to-reach landscapes. Starting from Christchurch Airport, you’ll depart over the Canterbury Plains, a vast patchwork of farmland and rolling hills that set the stage for the adventure.

The flight itself is just over two hours, but within that span, you’ll cover a lot of ground—flying past iconic sights and then touching down on glaciers that are often hard to access. The tour is private, so it’s just your group—making for a more intimate, personalized experience.

The price might seem steep, but you’re paying for a combination of aerial spectacle and exclusive glacier landings. The views are the main event, with some travelers mentioning that the sights of the Southern Alps, Lake Pearson, and the braided Waimakariri River are unforgettable.

Stay mindful that the experience is weather-dependent; poor weather could mean a reschedule or refund, so it’s best to be flexible with your plans. Now, let’s break down the itinerary and experience in detail.

The Itinerary in Detail

Takeoff and Canterbury Plains

Your journey begins at Christchurch Airport, where the helicopter lifts off to give you a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Canterbury Plains. This vast, fertile region is a great starting point, offering a panoramic glimpse of the landscape that dominates much of the South Island. We loved the way the plains stretch out beneath you, setting a peaceful tone for the adventure.

Fly Past the Tasman Glacier

As you gain altitude, the highlight for many is the flyover of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest glacier. It’s a mind-blowing sight—massive, ancient, and carved by nature over thousands of years. The scale of it, combined with the surrounding snow-capped peaks, makes it clear why this is a must-see for glacier enthusiasts.

Waimakariri River and Craigieburn Basin

Next, you’ll swoop over the braided Waimakariri River, a signature feature of New Zealand’s landscape. Its twisting channels and shimmering waters create a striking visual and are often described as a highlight. Not far off, the Craigieburn Basin comes into view—famous as a film set from blockbuster movies, it’s a rugged, picturesque backdrop that adds a dash of Hollywood glamour to your flight.

Castle Hill’s Rocky Wonder

Another stop along the route is Castle Hill, an unusual rockscape that’s been shaped by centuries of geological activity. The huge limestone boulders and formations are a favorite for photographers and climbers alike. Flying over Castle Hill gives you a sense of how diverse this region’s terrain really is.

Lake Pearson and Southern Alps Divide

As you approach the Southern Alps’ main divide, the glistening Lake Pearson appears below, reflecting the snow-capped peaks. This area offers a stunning contrast of turquoise waters and rugged mountains, perfect for those awe-inspiring photos.

Lake Coleridge and Hydro Power

The flight then rises over Lake Coleridge, home to one of New Zealand’s first hydroelectric stations. The contrast of natural beauty with human engineering is interesting—though you’ll likely only catch a glimpse of the station from above, it’s a reminder of how the landscape is intertwined with New Zealand’s innovative spirit.

Glacier Landings at Lyell and Ramsay

The highlight for many travelers is the landing on Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers. Because these glaciers are inaccessible by land, the chance to stand on their icy surfaces and absorb the silence and majesty of these frozen giants is truly rare. The views from here are breathtaking—surging mountain peaks and brilliant turquoise lakes fill the horizon in every direction. A quote from a traveler sums it up: “The helicopter landing on the glacier was a surreal experience—you’re standing on ice that’s been here for centuries.”

Return Flight and Christchurch

After the glacier stop, you’ll fly back over Lake Coleridge and the Canterbury Plains, heading towards Christchurch. The return offers more chances to capture the stunning landscape, and many find that the experience leaves them with a sense of awe and gratitude for the untouched beauty of this part of New Zealand.

What the Experience Feels Like

Flying in a helicopter is an adrenaline rush mixed with a peaceful calm—especially when you land on a glacier, surrounded by silence. The vantage point gives you a sense of scale that’s impossible to get from the ground, allowing you to see the sharp mountain ridges, icy lakes, and sprawling rivers in incredible detail.

Many reviews mention the stunning views as the highlight, and the slow, smooth flight makes it easy to take photos or simply soak in the scenery. The pilot’s commentary adds context, helping you appreciate what you’re seeing, though you may find that the silence of the glacier landings is what truly sticks with you.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 3 hours total, with roughly 2 hours of actual flight time.
• Price: $2,541.25 per person, which might seem steep but is reflective of the private, high-end nature of the tour.
• Group size: Private, so your party alone.
• Weather: The tour’s success hinges on good weather, so flexibility is key.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is It Worth the Price?

This is definitely an experience that commands a premium price. The ticket includes exclusive glacier landings and a scenic flight over some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes, which isn’t something you’ll find in many other tours. The access to Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers, in particular, makes this stand out—and many travelers find that the views and the sense of remoteness justify the cost.

However, it’s not an everyday splurge for most travelers. If you’re someone who loves to see nature from an exclusive perspective, or if you’re celebrating a special occasion, this might be well worth it. For those on a tighter budget, there are other ways to enjoy New Zealand’s scenery, but few will give you this level of access and panoramic detail.

Final Thoughts

The Rakaia Glaciers helicopter tour is a solid pick for travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime view of New Zealand’s glaciers and mountains. The combination of flight, landings, and the chance to stand on glaciers makes this a memorable experience that’s hard to match.

The views are undoubtedly the main draw—pictures and memories from this trip will likely stay with you forever. It’s best suited for those who appreciate the exclusivity, breathtaking scenery, and don’t mind spending a bit more for a premium adventure. If you’re after an authentic glimpse of New Zealand’s wild side, this tour delivers on that promise.

FAQs

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with just over 2 hours of flying time, including landings.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the helicopter flight, glacier landings at Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers, and in-flight commentary. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.

Is the flight weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

Is this suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the nature of helicopter flights, it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable with such adventures.

What kind of views will I see?
You’ll see the Tasman Glacier, Waimakariri River, Castle Hill, Lake Pearson, Lake Coleridge, and the glacier landings—each offering stunning mountain, water, and ice scenery.

How accessible are the glacier landings?
Lyell and Ramsay Glaciers are rarely accessible, making these stops especially special. They’re not accessible by land, only by helicopter.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for changing weather, sunglasses, and a camera. Since you’ll be outside on the glacier, good footwear is also advisable, though you may be provided with some gear.

If you’re looking for a high-end, scenic adventure that combines spectacular helicopter views with the thrill of glacier landings, the Rakaia Glaciers tour is a memorable choice. It’s a journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for New Zealand’s wild beauty—and some truly awe-inspiring photos.