Helicopter
Fly Fishing Expedition
NZ Fly fishing experiences by helicopter
A shortcut to the kind of water most anglers only talk about.
Some rivers were never meant to be reached by road.
A helicopter simply changes what’s possible. In a matter of minutes, you leave the roads, the walking tracks and, quite often, everyone else behind. The trout seem to appreciate the lack of traffic too.
From remote alpine valleys to untouched backcountry rivers, these expeditions provide access to water that sees very little fishing pressure and some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Whether you choose an Eastern Rivers heli drop-off or a South Westland private charter, the goal is the same — exceptional trout water that most anglers will never reach.
Price
Guiding: NZ$1,400 per day
(for one or two anglers)
Helicopter costs are additional and vary depending on flight time, aircraft type, landing fees and destination.
Book online
Expedition Details
- Duration: Full day
- Departure: Queenstown, Queenstown Airport or Wānaka
- Return: Queenstown or Wānaka, late afternoon
- Group Size: Maximum two anglers per guide
- Suitable For: Intermediate to experienced anglers
- Target Species: Wild brown trout and rainbow trout
- Season: October to May
- Equipment Hire: Available on request
(Quality fly fishing equipment can be hired if required, including rods, reels, waders and boots.) - Package Inclusions: Professional fly fishing guide, helicopter coordination, Department of Conservation concessions where required, safety equipment, GST
- Package Exclusions: Helicopter costs, landing fees, New Zealand Fish & Game licence, lunch and refreshments, equipment hire, credit card fees
See our helpful links page to help with your planning.
Choose Your Heli Experience
1) Eastern Rivers Heli Drop-Off
A classic heli fishing experience east of the Southern Alps.
The helicopter flies us into a remote river, then returns at a pre-arranged time to collect us at the end of the day. This option gives you maximum time on the water and access to outstanding backcountry fisheries without keeping the helicopter with us for the full day.
It’s a strong option for anglers wanting the heli fishing experience while keeping the day focused firmly on the fishing. Sensible, really. The helicopter has done its job once it gets us there.
2) South Westland Private Charter
For anglers wanting the full heli fishing experience, South Westland is something else entirely.
This private charter takes us across the Southern Alps into remote South Westland, where the helicopter stays with us for the day. That means we can fish multiple rivers, relocate as conditions change and explore water that would otherwise be almost impossible to reach.
It is a bigger day, in bigger country, and best suited to anglers wanting a truly remote expedition with complete flexibility.
The Water
Helicopters open up some of New Zealand’s most remarkable trout water.
Depending on the day, we may fish remote alpine valleys, untouched headwaters, backcountry rivers or South Westland water that sees very little angling pressure. Every destination is chosen around the weather, river conditions, your experience and the type of fishing you’re looking for.
The Fish
These remote rivers are home to wild brown and rainbow trout.
Some waters offer a good mix of fish and steady opportunities, while others are more technical, holding fewer trout but the potential for exceptional size. Sight fishing remains the focus, with careful observation, accurate presentation and a little patience doing most of the heavy lifting.
The fish, annoyingly, still expect a decent cast.
What to Expect
Every heli fishing expedition is planned close to the day.
Weather has the final say, so we choose where to fly based on the best conditions available. If flying is not suitable, we can shift the plan and fish an exceptional 4WD-accessed river instead.
Whether you choose the Eastern Rivers drop-off or the South Westland charter, the objective remains the same: reach outstanding water, fish it well, and make the most of the conditions in front of us.
Best Time to Fish
Heli fishing is available throughout the New Zealand fly fishing season, with each period offering something different.
- October – November
Fresh fish, cooler water and quieter rivers. - December – March
Prime sight-fishing conditions, longer days and excellent dry fly opportunities. - April – May
Cooler mornings, autumn colour and the chance of larger pre-spawning fish.
Why Fish With Us?
A helicopter can take you almost anywhere.
Knowing where it is actually worth landing is another matter.
Years spent exploring these rivers means we know which waters fish well in different conditions, when it is worth flying further, when to stay closer, and when the better decision is to change the plan entirely.
Because the helicopter gets you there.
Local knowledge makes it worthwhile.