Fox Glacier Helicopter Flight

by Martina Mc Auley
(Amsterdam)

My friend and I took a helicopter flight over Mt Cook, Mt Tasman and the Fox Glacier 5 years ago. I had wanted to do this trip, from the very first time I'd read about New Zealand and the glaciers.


It's absolutely stunning up there, refreshment for the soul. It was nearly as good as seeing the Swiss Alps for the first time. I would have loved to have stayed up there for a few hours but unfortunately we only had about 5 minutes to soak up the beautiful scenery and amazing view.


I loved the helicopter flight as for me, it was a first time experience and I totally loved it! It was like being on top of the world: surrounded by snow covered peaks, under a sky, that was as blue as the day is long. I was in seventh heaven!


But I couldn't say the same for my friend. She doesn't really like heights and she got to sit by the window. Every time we banked, it was on her side of the helicopter. I could see her face going white, as she hung on for dear life. It was like a white knuckle ride for her! Why she came with me on the flight, I don't know but I'm sure it was an unforgettable experience for her too.


I went back to New Zealand on my own last year (2009) in September and October and I totally fell in love with the place again. It was very hard to come back to Europe. I hope to get the chance to go back again sometime soon.


The helicopter flight, though, is a definite must, if you love snow covered mountains and scenery "to beat the band", as we say in Ireland. For more info on my trip to N.Z. last year, please check: http://tinyurl.com/yfsfrc7