Waipakahi Road End, Desert Road Central Plateau, 3382 Waikato
Frequently Ask Questions / Terms and Conditions
The Kaimanawa Decent
Can I ride with both e-bikes and regular bikes?
Yes – the Kaimanawa Descent is suitable for both e-bikes and regular mountain bikes. Please ensure your bike is in good working order before the ride, as it’s a backcountry trail with limited access to repairs.
What helicopters do you use?
Our main aircraft is the AS350 Squirrel, a versatile helicopter that comfortably carries riders and bikes. From time to time, we also operate the Hughes 500, another reliable machine well-suited for this adventure.
How long is the trail?
The Kaimanawa Descent is a 23km purpose-built downhill mountain biking trail, running from the Patutu Tops back down to our Waipakahi Base.
Elevation loss: approx. 800m
Climbing required: 430m in total over the full descent
How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight from Waipakahi Base to the trail start takes just under 10 minutes, giving you a taste of the remote landscapes you’ll soon be riding through.
How does the heli-bike experience work?
Arrival: Arrive at Waipakahi Base 30–45 minutes before your scheduled flight time.
Check-in: We’ll sign you in, provide safety information, and load your bike.
Flight: You and your bike are flown to the Patutu Tops, the official start of the Kaimanawa Descent.
Ride: Take your time soaking up the views before starting the trail.
Finish: The trail ends back at Waipakahi Base, where your car is parked.
Do you offer bike hire?
Yes – we can arrange mountain bike and e-bike hire for guests who don’t wish to bring their own.
E-Bikes: Full-suspension e-MTBs available in a range of sizes.
Standard MTBs: High-quality full-suspension trail bikes suited to the Grade 3 trail.
Pricing: Available on request when booking your ride.
Helmet & Safety Gear: Helmets are included with hire bikes. Additional protective gear (gloves, pads, etc.) can be provided on request.
Advance Booking Required: Please book bike hire when you book your heli-bike trip to ensure availability
How are bikes transported?
Underslung in a custom-built bike cage – bikes are secured individually with no contact points.
On purpose-built skid racks – used depending on weights and group sizes.
This ensures your bike is safe, protected, and ready to ride at the top.
Tyre size limits
We cannot transport “fat boy” tyres. The maximum tyre width we can accommodate is 2.8 inches (7.1cm).
Is there an age limit?
There is no set age limit; however, riders must be capable of handling a Grade 3 mountain biking trail. We strongly recommend against child seats or tow-behind systems.
How many riders per group?
Up to 5 riders plus bikes per flight (subject to weight).
Groups larger than 5 are split across multiple flights.
We can move up to 20 riders per run and a maximum of 80 riders per day.
What if I finish before the rest of my group?
At the top, there is a shelter and viewing area where you can wait, relax, and enjoy panoramic views. Storyboards share insights into the area’s heritage, geology, and culture, keeping you entertained while waiting for others.
How long does the ride take?
On average, the descent takes 3–4 hours, depending on pace and how often you stop for photos, breaks, or to admire the scenery.
How difficult is the trail?
The Kaimanawa Descent is graded Grade 3 (intermediate).
Features: Some short, steeper sections with safety railings.
Signage: All tricky spots are clearly marked. If unsure, you can walk your bike – these sections make up only about 5% of the ride.
What happens in bad weather?
We monitor conditions closely. If the forecast looks unsuitable, we’ll contact you 2–3 days prior.
If the ride cannot go ahead on your chosen day, we’ll postpone to another date.
If no suitable alternative is possible, you’ll receive a full refund.
Do I get the helicopter to myself?
Not unless your group fills the aircraft. Seats are sold per person, so other riders may join your flight if space allows.
What if an accident occurs?
Safety markers every 2.5km include a PLB, first aid kit, and bike repair tools.
In a major emergency, use the PLB to alert us.
For minor issues, another rider can return to base for assistance.
Note: Extra flights for rescues or assistance are charged to the rider.
Can I ride off-trail?
There are spots where you can explore off-trail and rejoin later, but this is at your own risk. Any accidents or costs incurred off-trail are your responsibility.
Is there cellphone coverage?
Yes – but only in certain areas. Each group receives a safety card showing coverage zones and emergency instructions.
Scenic Flights
Depart from: Waipakahi Base
Arrival time: Please check in 30–45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Exclusive use: Only if your group fills the helicopter; otherwise, you may share with other guests.
Photos/videos: Absolutely – you’re welcome to capture the scenery during flight.
Heli – Remote Glamping
Capacity: 2 bedrooms with king beds, max. 4 guests.
Age limit: 14 years and over only.
Power: Yes – lights, fridge, and 12V device chargers.
Phone service: None – this is a true off-grid escape.
Water: Hot/cold running water, shower, and composting toilet. Drinking water is sourced from the pristine Waipakahi Stream.
Other Rides and Trails
Currently, the Kaimanawa Descent is our only official trail. In the future, we plan to expand with additional tracks.
Nearby, you’ll also find excellent trail networks in:
