The Ultimate Guide to Heli Hiking Fox Glacier, New Zealand

Introduction: A Sky-High Adventure Awaits

Imagine soaring through the crisp mountain air, the majestic Southern Alps stretching out beneath you. Suddenly, your helicopter descends, landing gently on a vast expanse of ancient ice. Welcome to the world of heli hiking on Fox Glacier, New Zealand – an adventure that combines the thrill of aerial exploration with the raw beauty of one of nature's most awe-inspiring phenomena.

What is Heli Hiking?

Heli hiking is the perfect fusion of convenience and adventure. This unique experience allows you to:

• Bypass hours of difficult terrain

• Access remote, otherwise unreachable areas

• Enjoy more time exploring the glacier itself

• Experience breathtaking aerial views

Fox Glacier: Nature's Icy Masterpiece

Location and Geography

Nestled in the heart of Westland Tai Poutini National Park on New Zealand's South Island, Fox Glacier is a natural wonder that defies expectations. Key facts include:

• Length: 13 kilometers

• Descent: From the Southern Alps to temperate rainforest

• Unique feature: One of the few glaciers in the world to end among lush vegetation

A Glacier Shaped by Time

Named after Sir William Fox, a 19th-century New Zealand prime minister, this glacier tells a story of geological forces at work over millennia. Its constant movement has carved valleys, deposited moraines, and created a dynamic landscape that continues to evolve.

Why Fox Glacier Stands Out for Heli Hiking

Unparalleled Scenery

Fox Glacier offers a visual feast for adventure seekers:

• Vivid blue ice formations

• Dramatic icefalls

• Intricate crevasses

• Contrast of ice against lush rainforest

A Living, Breathing Glacier

The rapid movement of Fox Glacier means that no two visits are ever the same. This constant change offers:

• Fresh landscapes with each visit

• New challenges for regular hikers

• Opportunities to witness active glacial processes

Planning Your Fox Glacier Heli Hike Adventure

Best Time to Visit

While Fox Glacier offers year-round heli hiking opportunities, consider these factors:

• Summer (November to February): Longer daysMore stable weatherBusier season

• Longer days

• More stable weather

• Busier season

• Winter (June to August): Serene, snow-covered landscapesFewer crowdsPotential for weather-related cancellations

• Serene, snow-covered landscapes

• Fewer crowds

• Potential for weather-related cancellations

Booking Your Tour

To ensure a smooth experience:

• Book well in advance, especially for peak season

• Research reputable operators with good safety records

• Read recent reviews from other travelers

• Confirm what's included in your package (gear, duration, etc.)

Check out Fox Glacier Guiding for tour options and booking information.

Getting to Fox Glacier

• Fly into major New Zealand airports (Auckland or Christchurch)

• Take a domestic flight to Hokitika or Queenstown

• Drive or take a shuttle to Fox Glacier township: From Hokitika: Approximately 3 hoursFrom Queenstown: About 5 hours

• From Hokitika: Approximately 3 hours

• From Queenstown: About 5 hours

For detailed driving directions, visit the New Zealand Transport Agency website.

What to Expect on Your Heli Hike

A Typical Itinerary

• Safety briefing at the base

• Scenic helicopter flight over the glacier (10-15 minutes)

• Landing on the ice

• Guided hike exploring various ice features (2-3 hours)

• Return flight to base

Total duration: 4-6 hours

Essential Gear

What to Bring:

• Warm, layered clothing

• Waterproof jacket and pants

• Gloves

• Sunglasses

• Camera

• Water and snacks

Provided by Tour Operators:

• Crampons

• Hiking boots

• Walking poles

• Helmets

For a comprehensive packing list, check out this New Zealand hiking gear guide.

Safety First: The Backbone of Heli Hiking

The Role of Your Guide

Your experienced guide is crucial to both your safety and enjoyment:

• Expert knowledge of the glacier's features and history

• Training in first aid and glacier rescue techniques

• Ability to assess and navigate changing conditions

Key Safety Guidelines

• Always follow your guide's instructions

• Stay within designated areas

• Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards

• Inform your guide of any health concerns or discomfort

For more information on glacier safety, visit the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council website.

The Helicopter Experience: More Than Just Transportation

A Flight to Remember

The helicopter ride is an integral part of the heli hiking experience:

• Panoramic views of the Southern Alps

• Aerial perspective of the glacier's scale and beauty

• Opportunity to spot the contrast between ice fields and rainforest

Photography Tips for Aerial Shots

• Use a fast shutter speed to combat vibrations

• Experiment with different angles through the helicopter windows

• Capture the scale by including the helicopter's frame in some shots

For more aerial photography tips, check out this guide to taking photos from helicopters.

On the Ice: Exploring Fox Glacier

Unmissable Features

Your guide will lead you through a wonderland of ice, including:

• Seracs: Towering ice formations

• Moulins: Vertical shafts where meltwater enters the glacier

• Ice caves: Stunning blue caverns formed by glacial movement

• Crevasses: Deep fissures in the ice

The Science Behind the Scenery

Understanding glacial processes enhances your experience:

• How glaciers form and move

• The impact of climate change on Fox Glacier

• The role of glaciers in shaping the landscape

Learn more about glacier dynamics from the National Snow and Ice Data Center.

Beyond the Ice: The Ecosystem of Fox Glacier

Flora and Fauna

The unique environment around Fox Glacier supports diverse life:

• Native birds: Kea, fantail, tomtit

• Plants: Alpine herbs, mosses, and lichens

• Mammals: You might spot the rare tahr or chamois in surrounding areas

Discover more about New Zealand's unique wildlife at the Department of Conservation website.

Environmental Conservation

Learn about efforts to protect this delicate ecosystem:

• Monitoring of glacial retreat

• Sustainable tourism practices

• Local conservation initiatives

Support conservation efforts by visiting the Fox Glacier Community Association website.

Capturing the Magic: Photography on Fox Glacier

Tips for Stunning Glacier Photos

• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the ice

• Experiment with different perspectives – get low or find high vantage points

• Include people in your shots to show scale

• Look for interesting textures and patterns in the ice

For more landscape photography tips, visit Digital Photography School.

Respecting Nature While Photographing

• Stay on designated paths to avoid damaging fragile areas

• Be mindful of wildlife – observe from a distance

• Consider sharing your photos to raise awareness about glacier conservation

Sustainable Tourism: Preserving Fox Glacier for Future Generations

The Impact of Heli Hiking

While offering incredible experiences, heli hiking does have an environmental footprint:

• Carbon emissions from helicopter flights

• Potential disturbance to wildlife

• Wear and tear on glacial features

Being a Responsible Visitor

• Choose eco-certified tour operators

• Follow Leave No Trace principles

• Support local conservation efforts

• Educate yourself and others about glacial environments

Learn more about sustainable tourism in New Zealand at Tourism New Zealand.

Alternative Heli Hike: Mt Cook Tasman Glacier

While Fox Glacier offers an incredible heli hiking experience, adventure seekers might also consider exploring the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Here's why:

Why Choose Tasman Glacier?

• New Zealand's Longest Glacier: At 23.5 kilometers long, Tasman Glacier offers a vast expanse of ice to explore.

• Stunning Alpine Scenery: Hike amidst the dramatic Southern Alps, with New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, as your backdrop.

• Unique Glacial Lakes: Witness the ethereal beauty of glacial lakes and icebergs up close.

• Diverse Terrain: Experience a mix of ice formations, from crevasses to ice caves, offering a different perspective from Fox Glacier.

Heli Hiking at Tasman Glacier

• Duration: Similar to Fox Glacier, tours typically last 3-4 hours.

• Difficulty: Suitable for most fitness levels, with experienced guides to assist.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May, with peak season from December to February.

How to Book

Several operators offer heli hiking tours on Tasman Glacier. Check out Mount Cook Glacier Guiding or The Helicopter Line, or book directly on Over The Planet for tour options and booking information.

Getting There

• Fly into Christchurch International Airport

• Drive or take a bus to Mount Cook Village (about 4 hours)

• Alternatively, fly into Queenstown and drive to Mount Cook Village (about 3 hours)

For a comprehensive comparison between Fox Glacier and Tasman Glacier heli hikes, consider factors such as travel time from your location, overall itinerary, and personal preferences for scenery and experiences.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Journey

Heli hiking on Fox Glacier is more than just a tourist activity – it's a profound encounter with one of nature's most dynamic and awe-inspiring creations. From the exhilarating helicopter ride to the moment your crampons crunch into ancient ice, every aspect of this adventure will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

As you stand atop this river of ice, gazing at the breathtaking landscape around you, you'll gain a new appreciation for the raw power and beauty of our natural world. So strap on your boots, grab your camera, and prepare for an adventure that will change the way you see our planet forever.

FAQs

• Is heli hiking suitable for children? Most operators have a minimum age requirement, typically around 8-10 years old. Always check with your chosen company.

• What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour? Tour operators prioritize safety and may reschedule or offer alternatives if weather conditions are unsuitable.

• Do I need to be very fit for heli hiking? A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but guides can usually adjust the pace to suit the group.

• Can I bring my drone to capture aerial footage? Drone use is typically not allowed due to safety and conservation concerns. Check with your operator for their specific policy.

• Is it possible to see both Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers in one day? While ambitious, it is possible to do heli hikes on both glaciers in a single day if you plan carefully and book in advance.

For more information on visiting New Zealand, check out the official Tourism New Zealand website.

Remember, every heli hike on Fox Glacier is unique. Embrace the adventure, respect the environment, and prepare to be amazed by one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders.