Heli Hike the Kepler Track: Luxmore Hut Day Trip from Te Anau
A helicopter drops you at Luxmore Hut and the Kepler Track opens up beneath your boots: alpine tussock, limestone bluffs and a sustained descent into beech forest before a water taxi across Lake Te Anau. This heli-hike compresses Fiordland’s high-country drama into a single unforgettable day.
The Experience
Before You Go
Protect your knees on the descent
Bring or borrow trekking poles and use controlled, short steps to reduce strain on knees during the ~800 m descent.
Layer and be ready for rain
Fiordland weather turns quickly—wear moisture-wicking base layers and carry a waterproof shell and hat.
Start early for better visibility
Morning helicopter flights and early trail starts typically have calmer winds and clearer views.
Hydrate and fuel up
Carry at least 2 litres of water and high-energy snacks; the walk from Luxmore Hut is sustained and calorie-burning.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for alpine tarns near the Luxmore skyline—small, reflective pools that mirror the ridgeline.
- •Pause at forest edges where limestone bluffs create unexpected microclimates rich in moss and ferns.
Wildlife
- •kea (alpine parrot)
- •New Zealand fantail and occasional tūī in beech forest
Conservation Note
Fiordland is a World Heritage area—stick to the formed track, pack out waste, and avoid introducing foreign seeds or insects on gear to protect fragile alpine and forest ecosystems.
The Kepler Track traverses land long used by Māori for seasonal travel and later developed as part of New Zealand’s network of backcountry huts and Great Walks to encourage access without heavy infrastructure.
Photographer's Notes
- • Ridge near Luxmore Hut for sweeping panoramas of Lake Te Anau
- • Mid-descent lookout where limestone bluffs frame the lake
- • Forest transition zones for moss and macro textures
What to Bring
Waterproof breathable jacketEssential
Protects against sudden rain and wind common in Fiordland's alpine zone.
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle supportEssential
Required for rocky, uneven trail and the long descent to the lakeshore.
Trekking polesEssential
Reduces impact on knees and improves balance on steep or slippery sections.
Daypack with 2L water and lunchEssential
Enough capacity for layers, food, water and camera for a full-day outing.
Common Questions
Is the helicopter flight guaranteed?
Flights are weather-dependent; the operator may cancel or reschedule if conditions are unsafe—expect flexibility and a full refund if canceled 24 hours prior.
What fitness level do I need?
A medium–high fitness level is recommended: participants should be comfortable walking 8 km with 800 m descent and able to handle uneven terrain for several hours.
Are children allowed?
Recommended minimum age is 8 years; guardians must ensure children can manage the distance and follow guide instructions.
Do you provide rain gear and poles?
Walking poles and rain jackets can be provided on request—notify the operator in advance to reserve them.
Is food provided?
Hot drinks are available during the hike, but you must bring a packed lunch and snacks.
How do I get back to Te Anau?
The trip concludes with a short water taxi across Lake Te Anau that returns you to town; transfers and some accommodation pick-ups are included.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Te Anau, Southland
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Require a medium–high level of fitness—able to manage sustained downhill walking for several hours and some uneven terrain.
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