Heli Shuttle
Travelling on a budget? Try the heli-shuttle instead.
The heli-shuttle drops you off at Duffers Saddle (1173m) – from here you can take the fast track down the gravel Nevis Road, or for the more experienced rider take the Carricktown Track past the Young Australian Waterwheel. Both options end up at Bannockburn. After refreshing yourself at one of the cafes/wineries, cycle along the Kawarau River back to Cromwell.
An alternative drop-off point is on Mt Michael (1163m) – an epic downhill farm track with more fabulous views into the Cromwell Basin and into the Kawarau Gorge. Great photo opportunities at Twin Rock. Finish on Ripponvale Road and ride back to the Heliview base via a well-deserved ice cream stop at Dam Good Fruit. (Mt Michael is closed 1 Oct – 30 Nov due to lambing.)
With this option we provide only the helicopter transport to the top – you are responsible for your own maps, food and safety, hence the reduced cost.
The heli-shuttle can also be an option if you want to ride tracks that are not currently on offer here. Talk to us about your ideas so we can quote you for accurate flight time.
Please Note: For a heli shuttle, the biking falls outside our PCBU responsibilities and rests with you. We are responsible for the helicopter transport only. If you don’t understand what this means, please contact us and we will happily discuss the ramifications and underlying NZ law.
Shuttle | Bike hire (plus bike insurance)
Available Oct-May, subject to weather. Minimum 2 people.