Fiordland Heli-hike to Luxmore Summit — Te Anau Scenic Flight and Kepler Track Hike
Soar over Lake Te Anau, land beside an alpine tarn, then hike the Kepler Great Walk to Luxmore Hut and Summit. This heli-hike compresses Fiordland’s high-country drama into a single, unforgettable day with a scenic flight, optional summit, and boat return to town.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book for morning windows
Helicopter flights have better wind and cloud conditions early; book the earliest slot available to reduce cancellations.
Layer for wind and rain
Alpine tarns and ridges can be exposed—pack a breathable waterproof shell and warm mid-layer.
Carry extra water and snacks
Hike durations vary; bring 1–1.5 L water and high-energy snacks to maintain pace on exposed sections.
Respect landing zones
Stay with guides during landings and avoid disturbing vegetation around the helicopter site to protect fragile alpine plants.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The small mountain tarn landing—quiet, rarely crowded and ideal for close-up alpine photos
- •South Arm shoreline views from the lower Kepler Track—often clear reflections in calm conditions
Wildlife
- •kea (alpine parrot)
- •whio / blue duck in fast-flowing streams
Conservation Note
Fiordland National Park is highly protected—stick to established tracks, pack out waste, and note landing fees contribute to hut and trail maintenance.
The Kepler route follows traditional travel corridors later formalized during European mapping and the Great Walks program; Fiordland’s geography reflects deep glacial carving of the Southern Alps.
Photographer's Notes
- • Tarn landing site for intimate alpine foregrounds
- • Luxmore Summit for panoramic Main Divide shots
- • South Arm of Lake Te Anau shoreline for reflections and scale
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects against sudden alpine rain and wind during both flight stops and exposed ridgelines.
Sturdy hiking boots (ankle support)Essential
Required for rocky ridge sections and damp boardwalks on the Kepler Track.
Insulating mid-layerEssential
Warmth for wind-exposed landing sites and summit conditions when temperatures drop quickly.
Camera with wide-angle lens
Captures sweeping aerial views and expansive alpine panoramas from Luxmore Summit.
Common Questions
How long is the helicopter flight?
The scenic flight portion is approximately 25 minutes, with additional flying as you’re relocated to the Luxmore Hut area and returned.
Can children join this trip?
Infants must sit on laps per operator policy; age and weight guidelines can apply—check with the provider at booking.
What happens in bad weather?
Flights are weather-dependent; operators typically cancel for high winds or poor visibility with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure.
Is the hike guided or self-guided?
The trip includes guided helicopter operations and transport; the hike follows the marked Kepler Track and requires moderate fitness but no technical guiding.
Do I need previous tramping experience?
No technical experience is needed, but you should be comfortable on uneven terrain and in variable alpine weather for up to 6 hours.
How do I return to Te Anau?
The itinerary includes a short water taxi from the South Arm of Lake Te Anau back to the town center—plan for a roughly 10-minute crossing.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–6 hours
Location
Te Anau, Southland
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good aerobic base and steady hiking fitness for up to 6 hours; able to manage sustained ascents and uneven terrain.
Ready to Explore Te Anau?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now