Chasing the High Glaciers: New Zealand\'s Pristine Icefields

Few natural formations command the silent respect that is demanded when standing upon the massive, slow-moving ice glaciers of the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) of New Zealand.

Stretching like an icy spine across the length of the South Island, these massive glacial networks have carved out deep, spectacular valleys and filled pristine alpine lakes with surreal turquoise-blue minerals. But visiting these pristine structures is not simply a matter of hiking. To truly comprehend their vast scale requires taking to the sky.

The Helicopter Champagne Touchdown

For most travelers, the highlight is a meticulously scheduled private helicopter ascent from Queenstown or Wanaka. Flying past jagged limestone pinnacles and dramatic waterfalls, you ascend to a completely isolated snow plateau. Here, shut off from all noise of the modern world, the aircraft engine cuts out and leaves you in absolute, majestic silence.

"Standing on ice that has been compacted over thousands of years makes one appreciate the supreme, fragile scale of our wilderness planet."

Low-Impact Eco-Guidelines

We believe deeply in responsible travel. Under the direction of our local conservation partners, our pilots maintain strict flight paths that avoid nesting grounds of the rare native alpine parrot, the Kea. We leave no traces of our landing, ensuring that the glacial ice remains as pure as it was before our arrival.