HELI-Hiking

Discover the ultimate heli-hiking adventure, where nature meets thrill!

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic escape, we offer a wide range of heli-hike options departing from all three of our bases. With access to over 10,000 hectares of pristine private land and the stunning Kaimanawa and Kaweka forest parks, we have the perfect terrain for every type of adventurer.

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Helicopter drop-off
Heli-hiking on the Kaimanawa tops

For all Heli-Hike packages, we partner with Chris Jolly Outdoors to provide expert-guided adventures. Their knowledgeable and experienced guides bring a deep understanding of the region’s history, flora, and fauna, ensuring an informative and immersive journey. Combined with our exclusive helicopter access to remote and breathtaking locations, this partnership guarantees a seamless and unforgettable wilderness experience.

OUR HELI-HIKE OPTIONS

Ngapuketarua beech forest

Alpine to Beech Heli Hike (Ngapuketarua)

10km total | 3 options for different fitness levels |Return flight | Lunch included

This Heli-Hike takes you from the high alpine tops of the Kaimanawa Ranges down into mountain beech forest, offering some of the best views of Lake Taupō, Tongariro National Park, and the surrounding landscape. After a scenic helicopter flight, you’ll land on an open alpine ridgeline with steep, rugged surroundings before descending into the forest below. Choose from three hike options:

  • Option 1: 3.5km | moderate fitness | follows the alpine tops
  • Option 2: 4km | low fitness | follows beech forest ridgeline
  • Option 3: 10km | moderate to high fitness | combines both options for a full experience
Ngaruroro River

TWO RIVERS

Boyd to Omarau
12 km | Approx 6 hr hike, allow 8hrs | Medium fitness | Return flight | Lunch included

Fly into the Kaimanawa Ranges for a remote helicopter-access hike. Departing from Taupō, the flight takes you over the Kaimanawa and Kaweka Ranges, landing at the headwaters of the Ngaruroro River. From there, cross a wide valley of golden tussock with alpine views before a short climb to the Oamaru River. Both rivers run clear through rugged terrain. Stop for lunch before descending into a mountain beech forest, where towering red and silver beech trees some over a century old line the track. Follow the Oamaru River through the forest to the Oamaru Hut, where your helicopter awaits.

Tops Traverse

TOPS TRAVERSE

Waipakihi – one way flight
12 km | Approx 5 hr hike, allow 8hrs | High fitness | Lunch included

Take a helicopter flight to a mountain hut via Lake Taupō and the Tongariro National Park. From there we will take you on a guided hike through alpine high country with beautiful vistas of Lake Taupō and the mountains. The hike then dips into the bush line with beech forests to explore on your way down to the Tongariro River. Your guide will drive the party back to Taupō, an approximately 40 minute journey via Tūrangi and the eastern shores of Lake Taupō on State Highway 1.