In the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, adventurers can embark on a thrilling full-day alpine heliski adventure that promises an unforgettable experience. Soaring above the breathtaking backcountry in a helicopter, skiers and snowboarders will access pristine, untracked slopes, guided by experienced professionals who prioritize safety. With gourmet lunch, equipment rentals, and personalized attention, this exhilarating journey offers a chance to carve through untouched powder, immersed in the stunning alpine scenery. Whether a seasoned heli-skier or a newcomer to the sport, this adventure is sure to leave an indelible mark on the senses.
Key Points
- Full-day access to New Zealand’s South Island backcountry for skiing and snowboarding, with two scenic helicopter rides to prime locations.
- Professional guides prioritize safety and lead participants to the best terrain, ensuring an optimal and thrilling adventure.
- Gourmet buffet lunch provided to refuel during the day-long experience.
- Ski equipment available for hire, eliminating the need to carry gear.
- Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the adventure and a Lowest Price Guarantee.
Overview
The Alpine Heliski Adventure offers a full-day of exhilarating and exclusive access to the pristine, untouched powder of New Zealand’s South Island backcountry, catering to adventurous skiers and snowboarders seeking an unparalleled off-piste experience.
Located in the stunning landscape of the South Island, this adventure boasts a stellar reputation, with 31 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor earning a 4.0 out of 5 rating.
Guests can look forward to two thrilling helicopter rides, delivering them to the best terrain, and a professional guide ensuring their safety and leading them to the most rewarding runs.
A gourmet buffet lunch refuels participants as they indulge in a true backcountry skiing or snowboarding haven.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in South Island.
Highlights of the Experience
Heli-skiing offers unmatched access to untracked fresh powder, allowing adventurous skiers and snowboarders to avoid crowded slopes and enjoy the pristine backcountry of New Zealand’s South Island.
This full-day alpine adventure includes two scenic helicopter rides, whisking participants to the best untouched terrain.
Professional guides lead the way, ensuring safety and helping discover the most impressive runs.
A hot, gourmet buffet lunch on the mountain provides a welcome break to refuel.
With well-maintained equipment available for hire, there’s no need to worry about lugging gear – just focus on making the most of this incredible opportunity to experience the thrill of heli-skiing in an awe-inspiring alpine setting.
Inclusions
This alpine heliski adventure package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Participants receive the heliski package, covering landing and facility fees as well as National Park entry, along with a gourmet buffet lunch on the mountain.
Professional guides lead the way, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.
Local taxes are also included, while ski equipment can be hired locally if needed.
Plus, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase to complement the day’s activities.
The package includes:
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Heliski package, landing and facility fees, and National Park fees
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Lunch (buffet), professional guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off
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Local taxes
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Alcoholic drinks available for purchase
Meeting and Pickup Details
Participants assemble at The Bakery Queenstown, located at 37 Shotover Street in Queenstown, as this serves as the designated meeting point for the alpine heliski adventure.
Pickup options are available at pre-arranged locations, providing travelers with the convenience of starting their day from a location closer to their accommodation.
Upon completing the day’s activities, the tour concludes back at the original meeting point.
The experience kicks off promptly at 8:30 AM, ensuring a full day on the slopes.
Whether opting for the central meeting location or a more convenient pickup, guests can look forward to an exhilarating alpine heliski adventure with safe and experienced guides.
Confirmation and Additional Information
Confirmation of the alpine heliski adventure is provided at the time of booking, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details ahead of their excursion.
Travelers should be aware that the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most you can participate. A maximum group size of 60 adventurers is enforced, and a vegetarian lunch option is available upon request at the time of booking.
The alpine heliski tour is operated by Alpine Heliski Ltd and carries a Lowest Price Guarantee, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start of the experience.
The tour offers the following additional details:
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Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
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Local taxes are included in the package.
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Ski equipment can be hired locally.
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The adventure begins and ends at the meeting point in Queenstown.
Safety and Accessibility
The alpine heliski adventure prioritizes participant safety through the guidance of professional guides, who ensure the group navigates the best terrain and follows appropriate safety protocols. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, the majority of travelers can participate comfortably.
| Safety Measures | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| Trained guides | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Proper equipment | Most travelers can participate |
| Avalanche safety | Minimum fitness required |
The guides provide thorough safety briefings, ensure proper equipment usage, and monitor avalanche conditions to keep the group safe. Although the remote mountain setting limits accessibility, the guides work to accommodate travelers’ needs and abilities, making the experience enjoyable for a wide range of participants.
Group Size and Pricing
With a maximum group size of 60 travelers, the Alpine Heliski Adventure provides an intimate backcountry experience. Prices for this full-day excursion start from $970.93 per person, with a Lowest Price Guarantee. Participants can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
The package includes:
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Two scenic helicopter rides to access untracked powder.
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A gourmet buffet lunch on the mountain.
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Professional guides to ensure safety and discover the best terrain.
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Skis available for hire locally, with alcoholic drinks for purchase.
This exceptional value and flexibility make the Alpine Heliski Adventure an enticing option for those seeking an unforgettable day on the slopes.
Cancellation and Payment Policy
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the Alpine Heliski Adventure experience starts, allowing participants to reserve their spot now and pay later. Guests can make their booking with confidence, knowing they’ve the flexibility to cancel if needed without penalty.
The activity’s Lowest Price Guarantee ensures customers receive the best available rate. This generous cancellation policy provides peace of mind for adventure-seekers.
Booking the Alpine Heliski trip is a simple process – customers can reserve their spot immediately and take care of payment closer to the start date. This flexible approach caters to travelers’ needs and schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Weather During the Heliski Tour?
The typical weather during the heliski tour is generally cold, with temperatures often below freezing. Bluebird days with clear skies and abundant snowfall are common, providing ideal conditions for skiing untracked powder in the backcountry.
How Experienced Do I Need to Be to Participate in This Activity?
For this activity, participants should be expert-level skiers or snowboarders. The guides recommend having at least 5 years of experience in backcountry skiing or riding to safely navigate the challenging terrain and conditions.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Heliski Tour?
The heliski tour doesn’t have a set minimum age requirement, but it’s recommended for experienced skiers and snowboarders who are at least 12 years old. Younger participants may be accepted with parental consent and guide approval.
Can I Bring My Own Ski Equipment, or Is It Provided?
Guests can bring their own ski equipment, but it’s not required. The tour provides skis that can be hired locally. This allows guests to focus on the exhilarating heli-skiing experience without the hassle of transporting their own gear.
What Happens in the Event of Poor Weather Conditions on the Day?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour operator will assess the safety and feasibility of the activity. They’ll work with guests to either reschedule or provide a suitable alternative, ensuring everyone’s wellbeing while still delivering an enjoyable experience.
Recap
Enjoy the exhilaration of New Zealand’s alpine wilderness with this full-day heliski adventure.
Soar above pristine landscapes, carve through untracked powder, and savor a gourmet lunch on the mountain.
Led by experienced guides committed to safety, this unforgettable excursion promises an adrenaline-fueled day on the slopes, tailored to suit a small group’s needs.
Embark on an unforgettable alpine odyssey that showcases the very best of New Zealand’s breathtaking backcountry.