Southern Lakes Heliski

Southern Lakes is one of the only operators in New Zealand to offer accommodations at their own facility. The Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is a beautifully secluded and luxurious four-chalet property that’s surrounded by National Parks. This lodge is only accessible by helicopter, so you’ll have complete freedom of mind while staying here. Each of the four chalets comes with these amenities:

• Premium, fine dining with chef-prepared meals
• Hot tub
• King-sized bed
• Private deck
• En suite bathroom

Southern Lakes has terrain suited for all ability levels. From death-defying chutes and high-adrenaline descents to gentle cruisers in open bowls, you’re sure to have the experience you’re looking for. This operator’s tenure expands over 17 different mountains, providing skiers with nearly unlimited access to the best of New Zealand’s backcountry. 

Their 800+ named runs harbor extremely unique features that are unique to the New Zealand alpine maritime environment. This terrain has no trees, allowing you to see for miles. Wide open bowls are a favorite of intermediate skiers, whereas their rock drops and steep chutes are sought out by the extremists in the group.

Southern Lakes Heliski focuses on single day trips, but you’re more than welcome to book multiple days while staying in the remote lodge. This operator is partnered with Alpine Helicopters, a trusted charter company that has been in business since 1972. Powder skis are not provided, so be sure to bring your own. You will, however, be provided with all the avalanche safety gear you need, as well as an alpine-packed lunch.

Package options are tailored to how much time you want to spend skiing. Options include:

• 4 Runs: This package usually ends early afternoon and is best geared towards skiers that can enjoy blue runs at a resort, and don’t have any experience in powder.
• 6 Runs: A slight step up, the 6-run package is designed for intermediate skiers that do have experience in powder.
• 8 Runs: The 8-run package moves at a faster pace and is intended for strong and advanced skiers looking to push their abilities.
• 10 Runs: Ending right before sundown, this package is for those that have maximum endurance, expert skill level, and are solely focused on skiing as much as possible.

If you’re looking to make the most of a single day of heliskiing, Southern Lakes is by far the best option in the greater New Zealand area. With packages of up to 10 runs and high-end backcountry accommodations, there is no better place to ski until your legs fall off.