Description
Mount Cook Heliski offers the ultimate heli ski experience across 6 mountain ranges which makes up the single largest heliski area in New Zealand. Led by the professionals from Alpine Guides and flown by The Helicopter Line you will enjoy exclusive terrain within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to the Ben Ohau Range that lies above the picturesque lake Pukaki. Treated to New Zealand's highest landings accompanied by the longest heliski runs (up to 1,100 metre descent) you are in for a heliski spectacle like no other.
The Terrain
This unique region is dominated by huge, heavily glaciated peaks meaning some of the helicopter landings are up to 2,800 metres making them the highest in NZ. Combine this elevation with glaciation and huge annual snowfall and you are left with unbeatable snow conditions that will live in your memory forever!
The Heliski Day
The standard ‘Wilderness’ day heli skiing includes 5 incredible runs. The runs average 800 vertical metres and if that's not enough to satisfy you then there are additional affordable options to increase your vertical with extra runs.
A mixed terrain is on offer so there is something to suit various levels ranging from intermediate through to expert skiers and snowboarders. Given the nature of the environment, the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park area is known for delivering a more extensive mass of advanced terrain compared with its counterparts further south. Your load will be grouped and the runs selected by your guide according to each rider's ability and experience. A good level of fitness and confidence along with a "go for it" attitude is a must!
As heli skiing is a very weather dependent activity we recommend you stay in the Mt Cook village or the Mackenzie area for a few days to ensure you get to fulfil your heli ski dream. The Mt Cook Heliski helipad is only 15 minutes drive from Mt Cook and just under 1 hour from Lake Tekapo.
Your heli ski experience is delivered with a focus on small groups, your safety in the mountains and providing the utmost kiwi service creating an unforgettable heli ski memory.
Our Guides
Mount Cook Heliski are aware that the extremity of the mountains that make up the Mount Cook region demands the respect and operation of only the best and most experienced heliski guides in the business. All guides are qualified professionals. They are either trained and certified to international standards through the NZMGA training program, or meet the strict requirements of the NZ Heli Operators Group.
Your Ability
Mount Cook Heliski work on 4 broad 'Ability' levels. Choose which level fits you and note this in your booking form.
Level 1:
- Confidently ride/ski Blue runs at a ski area
- May have no heliskiing experience
- May have no powder snow experience
Level 2:
- Confidently ride/ski Black runs at a ski area
- May have no powder snow experience
- May have some heliski experience in intermediate terrain
Level 3
- May not have heli-skied, but can ride/ski Double Black runs at a ski area in powder snow
- Or experienced heli-skier. Will ride/ski 5 - 10 (800 metre) runs per day
Level 4
- Can ride/ski any terrain
- Very experienced heli-skier. Will ride/ski 10 or more (1,000 metre) runs per day
Trip Includes
- 5 epic heli ski runs in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
- Delicious picnic lunch
- Safety equipment
- Professional guide
- Transfers from Mt Cook village to the helipad
Duration
Departures
- 9:30am (returns 4:30pm)
- Departs Mount Cook Airport, Mount Cook Rd, Mount Cook National Park
- Operates July to September only
Other Information
- You don’t have to be an expert skier or boarder! Strong intermediate skiers & snowboarders can heli-ski & are welcome
- Skis, boots & poles are available to rent if required
- Snowboards & boots are not available to rent
- If 5 runs isn't enough then extra runs can be purchased for $155 per run on the day
- Bring goggles or quality sunglasses, sunscreen, a small backpack between 2 people (about 30 litres) is useful for water, a spare pair of gloves, or a warm beanie
- Moderate fitness is required
- Advance bookings are essential
- Minimum numbers apply
- Minimum age is 13 years old. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian
- Helisking is weather dependent. A weather call will be made each morning to advise if your trip is going ahead. We recommend booking for your first day in the region and allow a few days in case a backup day is required
Normal Retail Price
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All prices shown in NZD$.
