Dusky Sound Tasman Glacier Heli-Ski & Boat Experience
Inaccessible by foot or land vehicle, explore one of Fiordland’s most isolated and remote inlets from the skies and seas
Ski New Zealand’s longest runs on the Tasman Glacier, exploring blue ice caves and incredible ice formations as you go. The pace is relaxed, and suitable for first-time off-piste skiers and snowboarders.
The day starts with a scenic flight up to the top of Tasman Glacier by ski plane. Take in the stunning views of New Zealand's tallest mountain, Mt Cook, before landing on the famous glacier. Make turns down the country's longest ski runs with your ski guide, and explore the impressive ice caves, seracs and unique glacial features as you go. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the snow before skiing your second and final run of the day – they're 8-10km long so there's no shortage of skiing!
You'll load into your ski plane at Mt Cook Airport, and fly up to the top of New Zealand's largest glacier – The Tasman. We can also arrange flights up from Queenstown or Wanaka, where you will need to swap over to the designated ski plane at Mt Cook Airport. If you're looking to stay nearby, we have partnered with Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat so let us know and we can arrange that for you.
With mellow terrain similar to resort blues, this full-day ski trip provides the perfect opportunity for intermediate skiers and snowboarders to experience off-piste skiing and riding for the first time. More advanced skiers will also enjoy the expansive terrain and adventurous experience, exploring ice caves, seracs and unique glacial features. As the group will often need to traverse and sidestep through the icefall and Canyonlands, it is recommended that snowboarders bring poles with them. This is a family-friendly experience, though children need to be a minimum of 10 years old, and must be accompanied by an adult (maximum of 2 children per adult). There will be a maximum of 6 guests per guide.
The best snow conditions on the Tasman Glacier are usually experienced in July and August. Spring conditions are typical in September, and often in early October, depending on the year. Thanks to New Zealand’s temperate maritime climate, the conditions are always changing and The Tasman can expect to receive a fresh powder dump with any winter storm.
Skiing New Zealand’s Longest Glacier – What to Expect
Make your way to Mt Cook Airport, taking in the views of the towering Aoraki Mt Cook – meaning “cloud piercer” in Maori – understandable considering it reaches an elevation of 3,754 metres. You’ll meet your ski guide at the airport before loading into your ski plane, and flying up to the top of New Zealand’s longest glacier, The Tasman.
The ski runs are leg-burningly long at 8-10km, but you’ll hardly notice with the spectacular scenery surrounding you. Ideal for intermediate and first-time off-piste skiers, The Tasman offers the equivalent of gentle blue run skiing. Explore seracs and ice caves as you go and feast on a picnic lunch on the glacier after your first run.
Looking for something extra special?
If you’ve got a small group or just want a private ski experience, why not charter a plane for the day? Set your own pace, choose your timings and we can even organise a special picnic lunch. Prices from $4,794 for a full day, up to 6 guests.
For those staying in Queenstown or Wanaka, we can arrange a short 40-minute scneic flight over the rugged Southern Alps before meeting your guide at Mt Cook Airport. Prices from NZD $1,249 per person.
Looking for the ultimate Kiwi winter experience? Check out See and Ski New Zealand’s Big Three.
PRICING
Starting at NZD $849 per person for a full day glacier-skiing adventure.
Inclusions:
- 3 scenic flights by ski plane
- 2 long 8-10km runs with approx. 5 hours on snow
- Professional ski guiding (6:1 maximum guest to guide ratio)
- Alpine picnic on the snow
- Avalanche safety demonstration and equipment rental
- Return transportation to and from your Mt Cook accommodation (if required)
Exclusions:
- 3rd run available at an additional cost $100-200 pending numbers and conditions on the day
- Video service, available on request
- Powder ski rental, available on request
Please note this is a family-friendly experience, though children need to be a minimum of 10 years old, and must be accompanied by an adult (maximum of 2 children per adult).
Note that ice caves and seracs cannot be guaranteed as the glacier moves around 30cm each day and guest safety is our top priority.
Looking for something more from your ski trip?
Thought of something we haven’t? Been dreaming something up for a special milestone, but don’t know how to make it happen? Drop us a line today – impossible is our specialty.
