Backcountry Helicopters

Backcountry Helicopters runs adventure helicopter operations across the remote South Island of New Zealand. It is based at Makarora on the Haast Pass Highway, about 45 minutes from Wānaka, on the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park and the West Coast. The company says it has flown adventurers into this country for over 20 years.

Hunting is a major part of the business. The company flies hunters into the Southern Alps, Otago and South Westland for red deer, Himalayan tahr and chamois. Guests can plan do it yourself trips, spike camps or guided hunts with local guides. The company holds DOC concessions for prime ballot blocks in valleys such as the Hunter, Dingle, Landsborough, Wilkin and Cascade.

Fly fishing trips use helicopter access to rivers such as the Dingle, Hunter, Wilkin, Cascade and Young Valleys. These rivers have brown and rainbow trout. Pilots can reach secluded spots in the Southern Alps for both new and seasoned anglers.

The Heli Siberia adventure is the company's signature trip. It combines a helicopter ride, a three hour wilderness hike and a jet boat ride with Wilkin River Jets. It also offers Heli Siberia Max, Heli Jet combos and the Heli Siberia Hike.

The company also provides private charters and transfers to lodges and key locations. These include Queenstown, Wānaka, Makarora, Fiordland and the West Coast. Scenic and charter flights are offered on these routes.

Commercial work includes lifting, utility work and surveying. The company says it has a skilled team, a versatile fleet and fast access to remote areas. It is part of the family owned Wanaka Helicopters Group, which was established in 1992. Some of its pilots have firefighting experience in Canada and New Zealand.

The company displays Qualmark Gold, DOC approved and sustainability logos. Makarora is known for snow-capped mountains, river valleys, native rainforest and alpine lakes. Day walks and tramps are available in the valley.

Services

• Hunting trips
• Fly fishing heli access
• Heli Siberia adventure
• Heli Siberia Max
• Heli jet combos
• Heli Siberia Hike
• Private charters and transfers
• Commercial operations
• Lifting
• Surveying