Wanaka Heli-Skiing for the advanced skier

Advanced skiers from around the world come to Wanaka every ski season to enjoy the thrill, excitement and exhilaration of free skiing in the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park in Wanaka, located on the South Island of New Zealand. .

What is heli-skiing?

Heliskiing is off-piste; back country, downhill skiing accessed by helicopter, not chairlift or snowmobile. It represents freedom and exciting adventure for skiers and snowboarders. No crowds or queues like at a ski resort, just pristine untouched natural snow and long, steep slopes. Wanaka’s Mount Aspiring National Park and the mountainous terrain of the Southern Lakes offer a variety of bowls and valleys open to drops and steep faces.

Powder skis are recommended for maximum enjoyment of freestyle skiing. Clothing requirements are similar to those at ski resorts: layered clothing suitable for subzero temperatures, goggles, hat, ski gloves, and neck warmers.

Why is Heli-Skiing recommended for intermediate/advanced skiers?

This style of skiing requires skiers to be able to handle all types of terrain such as long descents; contours and natural terrain features, and also be able to go downhill in all possible snow conditions. Snow conditions can range from powdery snow or corn, to the most difficult snow, such as brittle crust from the wind. Heli ski operators will find the best high altitude adventure runs and dry powder for you to test your snow skills. Advanced skiers and snowboarders can get between 6 and 8 runs as part of a package, specifically tailored to their skill level and personal goals.

The biggest risk and main safety concern for heli-ski operators is the danger of avalanches. All accredited heliski operations will employ guides and pilots who are professionally trained and highly experienced in evaluating snow conditions, snow stability, and risk management. Many operators will outfit you with shovels, probes, and avalanche transceiver and show you how to operate it.

If you are a confident skier and have planned to visit Wanaka this ski season, why not try heli-skiing? Some tour operators you may be interested in are Backcountry Helicopters NZ and Southern Lakes Heliski. Experience the magic for yourself this winter.