We offer a variety of trips to suit all abilities and hiking distances. Venues include the Alta Tarns, Black Peak, Dragonfly Peak, and Albert Burn Saddle. These viewpoints offer spectacular perspectives over the Matukituki Valley and Tititea / Mount Aspiring. There are options to fly in and out or hike all the way out to the valley floor.
Heli-hiking
Alpine Heli-hike
With several options available for all ability levels, our alpine heli-hike takes you trekking far from the valley floor. Flown into an extraordinary alpine environment you and your guide will share an unforgettable experience with stunning panoramas of the mountains, waterfalls, glaciers and Lake Wānaka.
1
Day
On the morning of the trip, your guide can pick you up from your accommodation in Wānaka or you can meet them at the Aspiring Helicopters hangar at Cattle Flat on the Wānaka / Mount Aspiring Road.
After introductions and gear checks, the helicopter takes off and travels 15-20 minutes along the Matukituki Valley, across the Harris Mountains, and deep into the heart of the Southern Alps / Kā Tiritiri o te Moana.
After introductions and gear checks, the helicopter takes off and travels 15-20 minutes along the Matukituki Valley, across the Harris Mountains, and deep into the heart of the Southern Alps / Kā Tiritiri o te Moana.
Clothing and Equipment
The helicopter flight will transport you up above 2000m in the mountains where temperatures can be much colder than the valley floors.
A full range of conditions can be expected and participants need to be suitably prepared. You will need:
- Walking boots (available for hire)
- Long-sleeved thermal tops (polypro or merino)
- Warm layers (fleece or synthetic fill)
Waterproof jacket - Long outdoor trousers or thermal leggings
Sunhat and sunscreen - Warm hat and neck gaiter (eg Buff®)
- Sunglasses (with good face coverage)
- Backpack and water bottle
Weather
Trips are very weather-dependent. We recommend having at least a day on either side of your booked date free to give you the best opportunity to get good conditions. Trips take place in a dynamic and remote mountain environment and the itinerary will be flexible to account for conditions.
The Alpine Heli-hike is run in association with Aspiring Helicopters and Whare Kea Chalet.
All trips are individually tailored to mountain conditions, fitness, and personal ambition. There are a variety of options and routes available. Shorter-duration trips can be arranged to suit the group.
Availability
To discuss your requirements or for more information, register you interest or complete a booking below.
‘A great day out on the glacier. [We] learnt a lot of alpine skills. The scenic and blue sky were awesome. Thank you for organising a fruitful and safe glacier hiking’
— — Ricky, Glacier Heli-hike
