Harris Mountain Heliski – Mt. Cook
New Zealand’s Southern Alps are home to some ridiculously large peaks, many of which other operators do not have access to. Harris Mountain Heliski – Mt. Cook is the only operator to have exclusive permission to fly in the Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park, giving skiers the opportunity to make first descents and obtain bragging rights on terrain that no one else has access to.
With quick, single-day package options, Harris Mountain Heliski (HMH) enables passionate skiers to have the experience of a lifetime, without the serious price tag. Paired with a more extensive New Zealand trip, it’s the perfect way to experience all that the Southern Island has to offer.
Facts & FAQ
HMH’s accessibility is a main allure of the operator, and while Mt. Cook is a bit out there, the team still makes it achievable. To arrive in the area, you’ll first want to fly into Queenstown International Airport. This is serviced by most major international airlines. Once there, you can either take the drive along Highway 8 to arrive at Mt. Cook, or you can choose to stay right in Queenstown or Wanaka.
If staying in these two popular ski towns, HMH will arrange transportation to the Mt. Cook helipad straight from your accommodations. Alternatively, you can choose to drive yourself to Mt. Cook, or stay in the immediate area. If that’s the case, you’ll receive a discounted day rate.
As a single-day operator, Harris Mountain Heliski – Mt. Cook does not provide accommodations or lodging. Most guests choose to stay in Queenstown or Wanaka, close to the nearby ski resorts of Cardrona and Coronet. Whether you choose to stay at the resorts themselves, or in a nearby hotel, you’ll always have prime access to the high-energy nightlife in the two towns.
If staying in Mt. Cook, you’ll have a few options available to you, including:
- Aoraki Court / Mt. Cook Village
- The Hermitage Hotel
- Aoraki Mt. Cook Alpine Lodge
Mt. Cook provides a unique experience compared to HMH’s other locations. As the highest peak in all of New Zealand, you’ll have longer runs and more snowfall. The terrain is dotted with interesting features that any level of skier can take advantage of. In addition, you’ll have the ability to ski seracs and glaciers.
For intermediate skiers, there are plenty of open bowls to gently explore. More advanced skiers will enjoy the moderately steep chutes.
HMH provides a few different package options at their Mt. Cook location, each catered to a different ability level. All their tours utilize AS350 Squirrels, praised for their nimble mechanics and quiet operations. While cat skiing is not available in the case of a down day, refunds can be issued.
Your options include:
- 5 Run Day: You’ll be provided with 5 heart-racing runs on intermediate or advanced terrain with one highly-trained and certified guide.
- Private Charter: If you’d rather have the entire peak to just yourself and your friends, the private experience gives you exclusive pilot and helicopter access.
Book a Heli Skiing Trip With Harris Mountains to Mount Cook Today!
HMH Mt. Cook is the perfect option for heli-skiers who want to pursue the highest terrain in New Zealand, while still enjoying the comforts of ski town life. With quick one day options, you can explore the most remote backcountry terrain the Southern Alps has to offer, and still have time to make it to dinner back at the resort.
Other heli skiing options are available in the land of Kiwis and sheep! Feel free to browse our New Zealand Heli Skiing Operator Directory.
Reviews & Comments
Please share a comment or review, if you have skied here! This REALLY helps the heliskiing community! Thank You!
BRADY
8/10/23
Brady is an avid skiing & backcountry enthusiast, aging "big wave" surfer and is totally addicted to heli skiing!
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