Take off with Helicopters Nelson for a half-day heli hike through Abel Tasman National Park, combining thrilling aerial views with guided coastal trekking and optional kayaking.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with good basic fitness who can walk a few kilometers on uneven coastal trails.
Wildlife
History
Abel Tasman National Park was established in 1942 as New Zealand’s first national park, preserving coastal forests and beaches vital to Maori and recreation today.
Conservation
Ongoing DOC efforts focus on pest control and habitat restoration to protect native species and maintain the park’s pristine environment.
Helicopters Nelson
Take off with Helicopters Nelson for a half-day heli hike through Abel Tasman National Park, combining thrilling aerial views with guided coastal trekking and optional kayaking.
Helicopters Nelson is a helicopter operator based in Nelson, New Zealand, offering a wide range of scenic flights, luxury heli-transfers and backcountry experiences. The business operates a varied program of trips from short city scenic flights to full-day Marlborough Sounds adventures, heli-hiking, guided backcountry fly fishing and specialised packages such as reef fishing on D’Urville Island and free-range hunting.
Tours include the 10-minute Nelson City Scenic family spin, Marlborough Sounds scenic options, Lord of the Rings landings at Mt Olympus and Mt Owen, Abel Tasman heli-hikes and alpine lake picnics in Kahurangi National Park. Helicopters Nelson also provides luxury landings and transfers to lodges such as Bay of Many Coves, Stonefly Lodge, Okoro Villa, Awaroa Lodge and Westhaven Retreat.
The operator highlights culinary and hospitality partnerships on longer trips, for example reef fishing with a beachside meal or transfers that connect guests with local hosts and sustainable eco-stays. Trial flight lessons and vineyard tours are available for those seeking shorter introductions to helicopter flying.
Pilots and crew operate to local regulations and focus on passenger safety, comfort and clear briefings before each flight. Helicopters Nelson markets experiences for families, couples, anglers and adventure travellers seeking aerial access to remote New Zealand landscapes. Booking options cover short scenic spins, bespoke luxury transfers and multi-hour guided excursions, all launching from Nelson. The range of tours and clear trip descriptions help guests select experiences that match fitness, time and interest. Customer booking details, safety information and availability are provided on request by phone.
Base Location
Nelson, Nelson
Operating from Nelson in the South Island
Tours Offered
36
Range of scenic and luxury flights
Shortest Flight
10 min
Nelson City Scenic family spin
Key Destinations
Marlborough Sounds, Kahurangi
Iconic landscapes and national parks
Reserve a scenic spin, luxury lodge transfer or guided heli-adventure — check availability and book your trip from Nelson now.
Book early and check weather
Flights are weather dependent, so confirm conditions and reserve spots in advance for best availability.
Comfortable hiking shoes required
Wear sturdy footwear with good grip to navigate mixed terrain along coastal trails after the helipad landing.
Bring sun protection
The Abel Tasman coast is exposed; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are important for mid-day hiking and kayaking.
Pack light but plan for lunch
Although lunch is provided, carry a small pack for essentials like water, camera, and a light jacket.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Supportive shoes are important for navigating the park’s mixed coastal terrain safely.
Water bottle
Bring hydration to stay refreshed through the hike and kayak sections.
Layered clothing
Variable coastal weather calls for moisture-wicking layers and a windbreaker.
spring|fall|winter
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Essential for guarding against strong sun exposure on exposed beaches and open-air kayak.
summer