What are the best times to Heliski?
Our ski season starts in July and goes right to the end of September.

What Altitude will I be skiing/riding at?
Most of our ski terrain is between 1400 m and 2,200 m. These elevations have proven to provide us with the best powder snow.

How much snow should I expect?
On average, in the areas where we actually ski, snowfall ranges from 2.5 m to 3.5m per season. Since our area covers some 4,800 square kilometers, snow amounts and conditions can vary.

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes we can. Please advise us when you book

Do I need to be an expert skier / rider? 
No, if you can ski/ride a blue run you will have a great day Heliskiing.

How long are the runs?
Our average runs are 3 times the length of Coronet Peak. Some are alot longer……..!

Do I need to book days in advance?  
You can book the day before but ideally you want to have an extra day or two up your sleeve for weather.

Do I need special skis or board? 
For skiers we recommend powder ski’s, talk to us about rental options. Boarders can use your usual board in a free ride stance.

General Info & Heliski Stats:

Equipment: All equipment, including powder skis can be hired locally on a daily or multi-day basis – just ask one our guides to point you in the right direction.

Snow reports: Daily snow reports are posted outside our Helishop (37 Shotover Street) and our report page is regularly updated on our website: www.southernlakesheliski.co.nz or come in and talk to the guides in our shop to get professional advice on what the weather may be doing. A snow report will be emailed daily to all of our Agents.

Photo services:  Photos are taken during the day and are available for purchase at the end of the day.

Film and Photo shoots: Southern Lakes Heliski specialist film safety guides have assisted in the making of many film and television productions over the years.  We provide extensive location knowledge, site management, helicopter safety and filming advice.

SLH Clothing: Heliski branded clothing; caps, Soft-shell jackets, Styli Hoodies & T-shirts are available to purchase from our booking office.

Bookings:  Simply read and complete the booking and waiver form and present it to us when you book.  We do advise booking in advance for the high season – July 20th to 10th Sept – but we are pretty flexible so come and see us even if it’s a last minute idea!  Payment is taken the night before your trip so that on the day all we do is pick you up and go find the powder.

Cancellations:  A full refund is given if your cancellation is received by 19.00 the night before you are booked to go.

Refunds:  If bad weather prevents us from flying, you will be fully refunded.  If some Heliskiing has been possible but fewer runs than you had booked, you will be refunded at NZ$80 per run not skied.  Refunds are not given due to injury, lack of ability, fitness and or cancellations on the day.

Season: July to October
Average Elevation: 2300m
Vertical: Anywhere from 400 to 600 vertical metres
Lifts: 2X B2 squirrel Helicopters
Snowmaking: Mother natures best!
Location: Southern Lakes region
Terrain: 5,500 Square kilometres of ski-able terrain, from huge natural bowl