The Grand Traverse
– fly from Lake Tekapo or Franz Josef
Our premier “must do flight of a lifetime”. See the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook plus the Tasman, Franz Josef and Fox glaciers up close from your very own window seat.
Aoraki Mt Cook Franz
& Fox Magic
– fly from Lake Tekapo
A totally unique 60 minute helicopter flight taking in the Southern Alps, Aoraki Mt Cook and the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.
Aoraki Mt Cook Alpine Grandeur
– fly from Lake Tekapo
An awesome 45 minute flight exploring remote alpine valleys and glaciers of the Southern Alps and getting up close to Aoraki Mt Cook.
Mackenzie Explorer
– fly from Lake Tekapo
A stunning 30 minute flight with amazing views of Lake Tekapo and surrounding areas.
Milford Sound Excursion
– fly from Lake Tekapo or Franz Josef
Fly direct to Milford Sound or via Aoraki Mt Cook seeing Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka, Mt Aspiring the Olivine Ice Plateau and the Hollyford Valley.
Weddings & Engagements
– fly from Lake Tekapo
Our Wedding and Engagement packages include your own helicopter transfers that will make your special day just that little bit more memorable.
Spectacular
Scenic Flights
New Zealand
Air Safaris has operated alpine flight-seeing experiences in the world heritage national parks of Aoraki Mount Cook and Westland Tai Poutini since 1970. The iconic Grand Traverse scenic flight provides the opportunity to view New Zealand’s highest peaks and longest glaciers. You can catch the Grand Traverse flight from either of Air Safaris’ modern facilities located at Lake Tekapo or Franz Josef in the South Island.
Air Safaris also operate charter flights within New Zealand. These flights provide a personalised service that takes in New Zealand’s stunning scenery while linking flexibly with a number of destinations including Milford Sound, Queenstown, Wanaka, and Christchurch.
Why Fly
Air Safaris?
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Experience New Zealand’s spectacular alpine scenery, including Aoraki Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo.
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Safe, modern aircraft with experienced local alpine pilots.
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Fixed wing and helicopter flights.
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Every seat is a window seat for unparalleled views.
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Go further and see more – epic mountains, glaciers, alpine valleys, glacial lakes, and braided rivers.
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Informative and entertaining commentary.
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Private charter flights to Milford Sound.
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Family-owned business with friendly, personal service since 1970!
Play Promo Video
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“We did the Grand Traverse route with our pilot Amit and can honestly say it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever done”
United Kingdom, May 2025
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“The most amazing views of Mount Cook and the glaciers you can get”
Spain, May 2025
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“Incredible views of the Glaciers and very friendly pilots and staff”
Switzerland, May 2025
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“One of the best flight experiences I ever had in NZ, such beautiful views and so worth it!! I’d do it again. Everyone was very kind and welcoming”
Australia, April 2025
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“Real Family business. Great tour safe and reliable. Recommend this trip to anyone”
Netherlands, April 2025
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“Brilliant experience, worth every penny. Won’t forget this!”
Liverpool, UK, April 2025
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“This flight was simply breathtaking, beautiful and simply left you speechless. The entire team responded to each individual’s fears and needs and I am grateful from the bottom of my heart”
Germany, March 2025
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“Magnificent experience! Our experience was exactly what was advertised on the website. Our pilot was so kind and positive. I would highly recommend”
USA, March 2025
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“It was fantastic. Good view, friendly and good explanations about all the impressive points. 50 great minutes that will always be remembered”
Germany, March 2025
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“Beautiful flight with lots of explanations. The whole Air Safari team made it a beautiful experience, so relaxed and nice”
UK, February 2025
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“20 out of 5 stars. Cannot recommend more strongly! Do this! What professional, happy, knowledgeable staff! Highlight of our trip”
California, January 2025
