AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Heli-drop into the Alps to Ocean: Aoraki’s Short Flight to Black Point
A short helicopter transfer from Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport carries riders and their bikes across the braided Tasman River to Black Point “Rotten Tommy,” placing you directly onto the Alps to Ocean bike trail.
Heli-drop into the Alps to Ocean: Aoraki’s Short Flight to Black Point.
From the helicopter base at Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport a compact flight threads the braided Tasman River and Southern Alps before setting riders down at Black Point “Rotten Tommy,” where the Alps to Ocean trail unfurls. The transfer is a practical, scenic splice between flight and pedal—short in time but rich in alpine perspective.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Braided Tasman River and Southern Alps vistas
The flight follows the Tasman River’s wide braided channels beneath the Southern Alps, offering concentrated alpine panoramas before the landing at Black Point.
Touchdown at Black Point — “Rotten Tommy”
A brief helicopter hop deposits riders and their bikes at Black Point, the transfer’s landing site and launch point for the next section of the Alps to Ocean trail.
Seamless link into the Alps to Ocean trail
After landing, cyclists continue along one of New Zealand’s most scenic bike trails—this transfer is designed to move you and your kit efficiently from alpine approach to singletrack and riverside riding.
What the day feels like
What it feels like
The experience compresses a mountain approach into minutes: board at the helicopter base at Aoraki/Mount Cook Airport, climb above the braided Tasman, and descend to the remote shore at Black Point “Rotten Tommy,” where bikes and riders rejoin the Alps to Ocean route and continue under their own power.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this transfer suits — and who should check options first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your bike and all riding gear; the operator transfers bikes and gear in a custom crate capable of carrying a wide range of bike types including e‑bikes.
The custom designed bike crate will accommodate many bike types — confirm specifics with the operator if you ride an oversized or nonstandard frame.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where does the heli bike transfer depart from?
Transfers depart from the operator’s helicopter base at Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport.
Where does the helicopter land?
Flights land at Black Point “Rotten Tommy,” from which riders continue on the Alps to Ocean trail.
What are the group size and fare requirements?
The operator requires a minimum of two full fares ($400) for transfers; they can carry up to six bikers per flight and may be able to accommodate solo riders by adding them to another flight (solo fare $200).
Can the helicopter carry e‑bikes?
Yes. The company uses a custom bike crate that can securely carry many types of bikes, including Berkel models and e‑bikes.
Is there an option to combine the transfer with a scenic flight?
Yes. The operator offers Heli Bike & Flight combo upgrades for riders who want a longer aerial experience in addition to the transfer.