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Heli Skiing New Zealand

Heli Skiing New Zealand

New Zealand has long been a destination for Northern hemisphere skiers and snowboarders looking to extend their season. With massive resorts like Cardrona, the country is a mecca for freestylers and freeskiers alike. In addition to its bustling resort culture, New Zealand is home to some epic peaks and breathtaking backcountry terrain. If you’re looking to push the boundaries of your skiing experience, heli skiing New Zealand is a great opportunity.

There is no shortage of heli ski New Zealand operators. Shortly after heli skiing was established in Alaska and British Columbia, NZ jumped on the bandwagon. Today, there are four main players in the game, each offering unique packages of different lengths. 

Below, you’ll find a short directory of the operators in the country and some of the conditions you can experience up in the mountains.

New Zealand Heli Skiing Operator Directory

 

  • Harris Mountains Heliski: Harris Mountains is by far the most comprehensive operator in the area. With over 40 years of experience, they offer New Zealand heli skiing in the Queenstown - Wanaka region, and they offer packages for heli skiing at Mt. Cook.
  • Southern Lakes Heliski: If expansive terrain and significant vertical are the most important parts of heliskiing to you, Southern Lakes Heliski is the obvious choice.
  • Alpine Heliski: Offering multi-run day packages, Alpine Heliski is the perfect choice for short trips and for those that just want a taste.
  • Methven Heliski: Located close to Christchurch, Methven Heliski is a highly accessible operator with multi-day packages available.
  • Mt. Cook Heliski: This operator provides exclusive access to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and six different mountain ranges.

 

World Class Travel Ideas!

We at heliskier.com have yet to go heli skiing in New Zealand, although we have skied Mt. Hutt in August. That said, if you're traveling back to North America from New Zealand, why not take a week to warm your toes in the sand after you've been in ski boots! Consider a stop in the Cook Islands (North of the equator), Tahiti (South of the equator) or even Hawaii. All locations are on the way home and great places to relax at a nice resort to decompress after all that physical activity!

Facts & FAQ

New Zealand Heli Skiing: Climate and Snowfall

All New Zealand heli skiing takes place on the Southern Island in the Southern Alps. This region is sprinkled with high peaks and ample snowfall. Mt. Cook is one of the most highly coveted areas and stands over 12,000 feet tall. You’ll have runs that seem to go on for miles. This mountain can easily get over 50 feet of snow annually, making it a powder paradise for snow-hungry skiers.

It's important to remember that New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, and as such, the season will be the opposite of most North American heliskiing operations. The beauty of this is that if you ever grow tired of the dog days of summer, deep powder skiing is just a flight away.

Book a Heli Skiing Trip in New Zealand Today!

 

For many well-traveled heliskiers, New Zealand is a popular choice for the comfortable western culture it has. Unlike other southern hemisphere operators in Chile and Argentina, you’ll be able to extend your skiing season into the summer without having to acclimate yourself to a new language and culture. 

Overall, New Zealand is home to monolithic peaks, copious amounts of snowfall, and a number of highly regarded operators. When you book a trip here, you’re sure to be impressed with the quality of heliskiing, and the comfort of your stay.

 

Peter Brady

BRADY

5/9/23
Brady is an avid skiing & backcountry enthusiast, aging "big wave" surfer and is totally addicted to heliskiing!
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