Southern Alps Heliski operates in the peaks of the Two Thumb and Cloudy Peak ranges, a short flight across the valley from Mt.Potts Lodge. The terrain borders the wilderness area of the Southern Alps and is very close to Mt.Cook allowing us access to genuine big mountain heliski terrain.  These mountains are among the highest permitted for heliskiing in New Zealand, giving us long runs and fantastic snow quality.

Some stats:
Highest peak: 2546m
Longest run: 3.16km
Average snowfall per year: 4.8m

And the most important statistic of all:

Number of clients per day: 12

Yes that’s true. We take a maximum of three groups of four clients out heliskiing each day. This allows us to get to know you, to take you to good quality untracked snow, and to find your own line. We don’t pump customers through like a sausage factory. We want to know who you are, what you like to ski or ride, and what beer you drink because even if you’re not staying for long this time you’ll definitely be coming back.

Southern Alps Heli Ski day includes:

• Five fabulous heliski runs in Southern Alps Heliski concession area
• Qualified and experienced guides
• Average 20,000 feet vertical per day
• Transceiver hire
• Delicious mile high picnic lunch
• Après-hour snacks and schnapps at base lodge
• Additional runs available for only $99

Operational Schedule
7.45am - Breakfast starts at Mt.Potts Lodge
9.00am - Clients either arrive at Mt.Potts lodge for a safety briefing and transceiver tutorial or wander outside after breakfast to join in if they stayed at the lodge the evening before skiing.
9.30am - First group flies into the operational area to begin skiing for the day.
12.45pm - Mile high picnic lunch. All groups heliskiing that day come together for lunch to swap stories and make any changes necessary. For example if some people wish to do extra runs the guides may switch groups to accommodate their needs.

Safety
We take safety seriously here at Southern Alps Heliski. We operate in a wilderness environment and respect it appropriately. Our guides are IFMGA and NZMGA qualified. All clients wear avalanche transceivers and are trained in their use before leaving Mt.Potts Lodge. Clients are grouped according to ability and then type of skiing or riding they wish to do, so no clients are out of their depth. We have an unblemished safety record and intend to keep it that way.

Our helicopter pilots are experienced in mountain flying and their machines and equipment are regularly inspected and meet all appropriate aviation safety standards. Southern Alps Heliski also has an externally audited safety plan which is reviewed and updated annually. Clients are required to sign a liability waiver before skiing for the day.

www.southernalpsheliski.co.nz