Frequently Asked Questions
THE KAIMANAWA DESCENT
Yes. The Kaimanawa Descent is suitable for both e-bikes and standard mountain bikes. E-bikes are a great option due to the climbing sections along the trail.
If you’re bringing your own bike, please make sure it is in good working order before arriving. This is a remote backcountry trail, so access to repairs and assistance is limited.
For safety reasons, we are unable to transport the following e-bikes by helicopter:
- E-bikes that have been converted from a standard bicycle.
- E-bikes fitted with aftermarket or modified batteries that are not supplied by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).
Our primary aircraft for the Kaimanawa Descent is the AS350 Squirrel, a versatile helicopter well suited to transporting riders and bikes into the Kaimanawa Ranges.
From time to time, we may also operate a Hughes 500, depending on passenger numbers, weights and operational requirements.
The Kaimanawa Descent is approximately 23 km of purpose-built backcountry mountain biking trail, beginning high on the Patutu Tops and finishing back at our Waipakihi Base.
- Elevation descent: Approximately 800 m
- Total climbing: Approximately 430 m throughout the ride
- Trail grade: Grade 3 – Intermediate
The helicopter flight from Waipakihi Base to the start of the trail takes just under 10 minutes. It may be a short flight, but it offers incredible views across the Kaimanawa landscape and gives you a unique perspective of the remote country you’re about to ride through.
Arrival: Please arrive at Waipakihi Base 45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
A waiver will be sent to you prior to your trip date. We recommend completing all required information before you arrive to ensure a quick and seamless check-in.
Check-in: Our team will check you in, complete the required safety briefing and prepare your bike for transport.
Helicopter flight: You and your bike will be flown to the Patutu Tops, where the Kaimanawa Descent begins.
The ride: Once at the top, take some time to enjoy the views before beginning the descent at your own pace.
Finish: The trail finishes back at Waipakihi Base, right where you started and where your vehicle is parked.
Yes. We can arrange both standard mountain bikes and e-bikes for guests who don’t have their own suitable bike.
- E-bikes: Full-suspension e-MTBs available in a range of sizes.
- Standard mountain bikes: Quality full-suspension bikes suitable for the Grade 3 trail.
- Helmets: Included with bike hire. Additional protective equipment may be available on request.
- Pricing: Available at the time of booking.
Bike hire should be booked in advance to ensure the correct size and bike type are available.
Depending on the aircraft, group size and weight requirements, bikes are transported either:
- In a purpose-built underslung bike cage, with bikes individually secured; or
- On purpose-built helicopter skid racks.
Our equipment is specifically designed to safely transport mountain bikes into the backcountry.
Yes. Unfortunately, we cannot transport fat bikes or bikes with oversized tyres.
The maximum tyre width we can accommodate is 2.8 inches / approximately 7.1 cm.
There is no set minimum age for the Kaimanawa Descent. However, all riders need to be confident and capable of riding a Grade 3 intermediate mountain biking trail in a remote backcountry environment.
We strongly recommend against child seats or tow-behind systems on this trail.
We can generally transport up to 5 riders plus bikes per flight, subject to passenger and equipment weights.
Larger groups can be split across multiple helicopter flights. We can accommodate groups of up to approximately 20 riders per session and a maximum of 80 riders per day, subject to operational requirements and availability.
If your group exceeds the passenger capacity of a single helicopter, we will aim to operate back-to-back flights so there is minimal waiting time.
At the top of the trail, there is a shelter and viewing area where the first riders can comfortably wait for the rest of the group to arrive. While you wait, take in the panoramic views and explore the storyboards sharing information about the landscape, heritage, geology and culture of the area.
Once everyone has arrived, your group can set off on the trail together.
Most riders complete the Kaimanawa Descent in approximately 3–4 hours.
Your total riding time will depend on your pace, fitness level and how often you stop for photos, breaks and to take in the scenery.
There’s no need to rush – the journey through the Kaimanawa landscape is a big part of the experience.
The Kaimanawa Descent is graded Grade 3 – Intermediate.
It is a purpose-built, approximately three-foot-wide bench trail with a mixture of flowing riding, climbing and some short, steeper sections.
More challenging sections are clearly marked, and safety railings are installed in selected areas. If you’re not comfortable riding a section, we encourage you to get off and walk your bike. These more technical sections make up only a small portion of the overall trail.
The Kaimanawa Ranges are an alpine environment and weather conditions can change quickly. We monitor the forecast closely and will contact you if conditions are looking unsuitable for your booked experience.
Where possible, we will work with you to move your booking to another suitable date. If weather conditions prevent the experience from operating and an alternative date cannot be arranged, you will receive a full refund.
Not necessarily. The Kaimanawa Descent operates on a per-person basis, so unless your group fills the available seats, you may share the helicopter with other riders booked on the same departure.
The Kaimanawa Descent is located in a remote backcountry environment, so riders need to be prepared and ride within their abilities.
Safety stations are positioned approximately every 2.5 km along the trail and include a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), first aid equipment and basic bike repair tools.
For a serious emergency, the PLB can be activated to raise the alarm. For minor mechanical or non-urgent issues, assistance can be arranged through our team at Waipakihi Base.
Please note that additional helicopter flights required for non-emergency assistance or recovery may incur an additional charge.
The Kaimanawa Descent has been specifically designed as a marked backcountry trail, and we strongly recommend remaining on the designated route.
Any riding undertaken outside the designated trail is at the rider’s own risk, and riders may be responsible for any additional recovery or assistance costs incurred as a result.
Cellphone coverage is available in some areas of the trail but should not be relied upon throughout the ride.
Each group is provided with safety information before departure, including emergency procedures and known cellphone coverage areas.
Yes. We require a minimum of 4 riders for a scheduled session to operate.
If minimum numbers have not been reached, we will contact you approximately 3–4 days before your booking to discuss your options.
Dogs are not permitted on the Kaimanawa Descent trail or at the glamping retreat. If you are travelling with your dog, they are welcome to remain at our base while you are out on the Kaimanawa Decent. Dogs can stay in a well-ventilated vehicle or be safely secured in a shaded area under the trees, with water available. Where our team is remaining at the base and operational requirements allow, we may also be able to keep an eye on your dog while you are out riding. Please check with us prior to your trip if you would like to arrange this.
SCENIC FLIGHTS
Our Kaimanawa scenic flights depart from Waipakihi Base.
Please arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and your safety briefing.
Scenic flights are sold on a per-seat basis unless otherwise arranged. If your group does not fill the helicopter, you may be joined by other guests.
Absolutely. We encourage you to capture the incredible scenery during your flight. Please follow your pilot’s instructions regarding the safe use and storage of phones and cameras while around the helicopter.
HELI-REMOTE GLAMPING
Our remote Waipakihi Glamping experience accommodates a maximum of 4 guests, with two bedrooms featuring queen beds.
Yes. Waipakihi Glamping is suitable for guests aged 14 years and over.
Yes. Although Waipakihi Glamping is completely off-grid, the retreat has lighting throughout, a small fridge with a small freezer compartment and a 12V USB charging port suitable for small devices.
We recommend bringing a portable power bank if you require additional charging capacity during your stay.
No. There is no cellphone reception or Wi-Fi at Waipakihi Glamping, making it a genuine opportunity to switch off and enjoy the surrounding wilderness.
We recommend downloading any music, books, maps or entertainment you may want before departing by helicopter.
A small Bose Bluetooth speaker is provided for guests to use during their stay.
Waipakihi Glamping is well equipped for a comfortable off-grid stay. Facilities include:
- Hot and cold running water via a gas califont
- Shower and composting toilet
- Small fridge with a small freezer compartment
- Large Weber BBQ and gas cooktop
- Indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pit
- Lighting throughout the retreat
- 12V USB charging port
- Gas for cooking and hot water
- Firewood
Drinking water is sourced from the pristine Waipakihi Stream.
We provide the essentials you’ll need to settle in and enjoy your stay, including:
- Linen, towels and tea towels
- Kitchen utensils and cookware
- Crockery and cutlery
- Dishwashing equipment and supplies
- Cooking oil, salt and pepper
- Tea and coffee
- Body wash, shampoo and conditioner
- Firewood
- Gas for cooking and hot water
- Small Bose Bluetooth speaker
As Waipakihi Glamping is a remote, off-grid experience, we recommend arriving prepared with:
- All food and beverages required for your stay
- A chilly bin for additional food and drinks, as fridge space is limited
- Suitable footwear and clothing for changing backcountry weather conditions
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Any speciality cooking ingredients you may require
- A portable power bank if you would like additional charging capacity
Please keep helicopter luggage and weight restrictions in mind when packing for your stay.
Waipakihi Glamping is self-catered, so guests need to bring their own food and beverages.
If you would prefer catering or would like to discuss additional food options for your stay, please contact our team prior to arrival and we can discuss what may be available.
Yes. Hunting is available while staying at the camp, subject to the applicable hunting requirements and designated block boundaries.
