THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Sharpen your shooting skills and fish for trout in New Zealand’s Upper Ripia block, accessible only by helicopter. Discover a remote mix of Beech forest and open terrain on this unique adventure from Aroha Helicopters.
Sharpen your shooting skills and fish for trout in New Zealand’s Upper Ripia block, accessible only by helicopter. Discover a remote mix of Beech forest and open terrain on this unique adventure from Aroha Helicopters.
Book with Aroha Helicopters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Aroha Helicopters · Napier, Hawke's Bay
Located in the rugged Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand, the Upper Ripia Hunting Block offers an immersive wilderness experience that combines precision long-range shooting with tranquil river fishing. Operated by Aroha Helicopters, this remote block is accessed by helicopter, dropping guests into vast clearings bordered by native Beech forest and regenerating hillsides. The landscape is marked by a dynamic mix of dense forest patches giving way to open country, perfect for practicing careful marksmanship across varied distances.
After sessions on the shooting range, guests can retreat to the nearby Ripia River, known for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout. Whether you're targeting your next bullseye or your next catch, the mix of active adventure and serene fishing provides a well-rounded day immersed in New Zealand's distinctive outdoors. The Upper Ripia Hut offers a comfortable base for multi-day stays, blending rustic charm with practical shelter needed in this wild backcountry.
What sets this trip apart is the combination of helicopter access and the diverse terrain surrounding the shooting block, creating an exclusive adventure unlikely to be found elsewhere in the region. Native Beech stands provide a unique backdrop that supports local fauna while offering challenging wind and light conditions for shooters. The regenerating landscapes hint at New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to sustainable land management and habitat restoration.
Aroha Helicopters is a local operator rooted in the Hawke's Bay community, specializing in remote outdoor experiences that balance thrill and natural appreciation. Whether you're an avid marksman or a fishing enthusiast, Upper Ripia's blend of forest, river, and ridgeline shooting spots stands out as a singular destination for those looking to mix skill development with rugged New Zealand wilderness.
moderate.
1–7 nights.
Participants should be in good shape to handle uneven terrain and carry gear between the shooting spots and river.
No, guests aged 13+ are welcome, with safety briefings and professional guidance provided.
Access is exclusively by helicopter arranged through Aroha Helicopters from Napier.
Participants typically use long-range rifles suited for precision shooting, with specifics provided upon booking.
Yes, fishing the Ripia River is a recommended activity and can be arranged separately or combined.
The Upper Ripia Hut serves as a basic but cozy base camp for multi-night trips.
Guests generally bring their own food; check with Aroha Helicopters for catering options.
The Hawke’s Bay area is known for pioneering sustainable forestry practices, with Upper Ripia’s regenerating lands a living example of restoration efforts.
Aroha Helicopters and local partners emphasize minimal-impact visits to protect wildlife habitats and support native forest growth.
Aroha Helicopters is a Napier, Hawke's Bay-based helicopter operator that provides aerial access and guided trips to remote backcountry locations. The company specialises in transporting clients to hunting and recreational destinations, most notably the Upper Ripia Hunting Block & Hut. That experience combines long-range shooting opportunities in native Beech forest and expansive regenerating landscapes with riverside relaxation and trout fishing along the Ripia River. From Napier, Aroha Helicopters facilitates efficient, direct access to the Upper Ripia block and its on-site hut, reducing travel time and allowing more time in the field. The Upper Ripia Hunting Block & Hut trip includes opportunities to practise long-range shooting in varied terrain and to fish for rainbow and brown trout in the Ripia River. The route and landing sites serve hunters and anglers seeking remote, less-accessible environments. Aroha Helicopters focuses on providing reliable transport and logistical support for customers travelling to the Upper Ripia area. The service is designed for people who value backcountry access, scenic flying, and concentrated time for outdoor pursuits. Operating from Napier situates the business within Hawke's Bay and positions it as a regional access provider for the central North Island backcountry. All communications and trip descriptions reference the Upper Ripia Hunting Block & Hut offering and its key features: native Beech forest, regenerating landscapes, long-range shooting, riverside trout fishing, and on-site hut accommodation. Aroha Helicopters remains a named provider for helicopter transport to this specific experience. Bookings and trip details are available through The Adventure Collective listing online today.
Book with Aroha Helicopters