Gravity Nelson Heli-Biking: Your Ultimate Nelson MTB Adventure
(Nelson) – Gravity Nelson, the region’s premier mountain bike guiding and shuttle service, has partnered with Helicopters Nelson to offer a series of exclusive, bucket-list heli-biking adventures. These packages are designed for discerning riders seeking to access Nelson’s most iconic and remote trails with seamless logistical support. We handle the planning so you can focus on the ride of a lifetime.
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Why Choose Gravity Nelson for Your Heli-Bike Adventure?
- Seamless Logistics: We handle all the details, from airport transfers to trail-side pickups, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
- Local Expertise: Our team of passionate local riders knows these trails inside and out. We provide expert advice and support to ensure you have the best possible day on the dirt.
- Maximized Ride Time: Our efficient vehicle transfers mean you spend less time in transit and more time shredding Nelson’s legendary singletrack.
- Exclusive Access: We’ve partnered with the best to get you to the top of New Zealand’s most sought-after heli-biking descents.
Important Information About Helicopter Loads
To ensure safety and compliance, all flights are subject to strict weight limits. The pricing for our packages is based on a “per load” basis. Please use the following guide to help plan your group’s adventure.
A “Full Load” is defined as:
- Up to 5 riders with standard (acoustic) mountain bikes and minimal baggage.
- Up to 4 riders with electric mountain bikes (e-bikes) and minimal baggage.
- Up to 6 people with minimal baggage and no bikes.
Please note: These configurations are a guide. The final number of passengers and bikes per load is always dependent on the combined weight of the riders, bikes, and any additional gear. We can provide a precise configuration based on your group’s specific details.
Our Premier Heli-Biking Packages
1. The Coppermine Saddle: A Nelson Classic from Above
Soar to the top of the iconic Coppermine Saddle for breathtaking 360-degree views of Tasman Bay and the Richmond Ranges. This classic Nelson ride offers a long, rewarding descent through unique mineral belt landscapes and native beech forest. Choose your own adventure with options to finish at the Maitai Dam or Codgers MTB Park.
View the Coppermine Loop on Trailforks
- Helicopter Cost: $1,370 (ex-base) for the first load; $900 per subsequent load (ex-Maitai).
- Gravity Nelson Logistics: Dedicated vehicle transfer to Nelson Airport for your flight and post-ride pickup from Maitai Dam or Codgers MTB Park.
- Logistics Package Price: $250 per group.
2. The Wakamarina Track: A Legendary Backcountry Descent
Experience the legendary Wakamarina Track from a whole new perspective. This heli-drop provides access to a world-class descent, famous for its technical, rooty singletrack and stunning native forest setting. This is a must-do for any serious mountain biker’s bucket list.
View the Wakamarina Track on Trailforks
- Helicopter Cost: $1,995 for the first load; $900 per subsequent load (ex-Butchers Flat).
- Gravity Nelson Logistics: Dedicated vehicle transfer to the helicopter departure point and post-ride pickup from the trail end at Butchers Flat.
- Logistics Package Price: $300 per group.
3. The Kill Devil Track: A Remote and Rewarding Adventure
For the ultimate backcountry experience, the Kill Devil Track delivers in spades. This remote and challenging trail offers a raw and untamed descent through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Kahurangi National Park. A heli-drop is the only way to truly conquer this beast in a single day.
View the Kill Devil Track on Trailforks (note, they describe riding up it, you would be riding down)
- Helicopter Cost: $2,995 for the first load; $900 per subsequent load (ex-Farm).
- Gravity Nelson Logistics: Dedicated vehicle transfer to the helicopter departure point and post-ride pickup from the trail’s end.
- Logistics Package Price: $350 per group.
4. Ben Nevis / Mt. Starveal: Alpine Heli-Biking at its Finest
Ascend to the alpine for a truly epic day of high-altitude riding. The Ben Nevis and Mt. Starveal heli-drops offer panoramic views and access to some of Nelson’s most challenging and rewarding descents. Expect a mix of open tops, technical singletrack, and a true sense of backcountry adventure.
View the Starveal Trail on Trailforks (note: described as a climb, you would be riding down it)
- Helicopter Cost: Contact us for a custom quote based on your objectives.
- Gravity Nelson Logistics: Full coordination including vehicle transfers to the heli-base and post-ride pickup.
- Logistics Package Price: Starting from $300 per group.
5. The Wairoa Gorge: A Full Day of Heli-Laps
Experience the world-renowned Wairoa Gorge in style with a full day of helicopter-assisted laps. We handle all the transport to and from the Gorge, and Helicopters Nelson will provide five uplifts to the top of the park’s incredible network of hand-built trails. This is the ultimate way to experience one of the world’s best bike parks.
View the Wairoa Gorge Bike Park on Trailforks
- Helicopter & Logistics Package Price: Starting from $1,500 per person (based on a group of 4-5 riders).
- Includes: Return transport to the Wairoa Gorge from Nelson and five helicopter uplifts within the park.
6. The Heaphy Track: A Grand Finale from the Air
Finish your epic Heaphy Track adventure with a spectacular helicopter flight back to Nelson. After you’ve taken our vehicle transfer to the start of the track, we’ll arrange for a helicopter to pick you up from Kohaihai or Heaphy Hut and fly you directly back to Nelson Airport, where our vehicle will be waiting to transfer you and your gear.
View the Heaphy Track on Trailforks
- Helicopter Cost: $3,995 per load (from Kohaihai or Heaphy Hut); $3,850 per load (from Brown Hut).
- Gravity Nelson Logistics: Pre-trip vehicle transfer to the start of the track and post-flight pickup from Nelson Airport and transfer to your accommodation.
- Logistics Package Price: $150 per group for post-flight transfer (contact us for pre-trip shuttle pricing).
Complete Your Adventure: Other Services
Make your heli-biking trip even better by adding one of our premium services. We can package everything together for a single, seamless booking.
High-Performance Rental Bikes
Travelling without your bike? We have a modern fleet of high-performance Santa Cruz and other top-brand bikes perfectly suited for Nelson’s demanding terrain.
Expert Local Guides
Maximise your day by hiring one of our professional, qualified guides. Our guides not only ensure your safety and handle any mechanicals, but they’ll also show you the best lines, share local knowledge, and make sure your group has an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the skill level required for these trips?
Most of our heli-bike trips are for intermediate to advanced (Grade 4-5) riders. You should be comfortable on steep, technical, and unpredictable singletrack. If you’re unsure, please contact us to discuss the best option for your skill level.
What is the best time of year for heli-biking in Nelson?
Heli-biking is fantastic from Spring through Autumn (October to April). Summer (December to February) offers the most stable weather, but the shoulder seasons often have perfect hero-dirt conditions and fewer crowds.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
Safety is our top priority. All flights are weather-dependent. If the helicopter cannot fly, we will first try to reschedule your trip. If that’s not possible, we will work with you to find a great alternative, like a shuttle day at one of Nelson’s world-class bike parks, and refund the helicopter portion of your booking.
What should I bring on the day?
You’ll need your bike (unless renting), helmet, riding gear, and a small backpack with water, snacks, a basic first-aid kit, a tube/spares, and extra clothing layers. Nelson’s alpine weather can change quickly, so a rain jacket is essential, even on a sunny day.
Can we book a custom trip?
Absolutely! We specialize in creating bespoke adventures. If you have a specific trail in mind or want to combine different options, get in touch and we can build a custom itinerary just for your group.
Ready to Book Your Bucket-List Heli-Bike Trip?
Contact Gravity Nelson today to start planning your ultimate Nelson mountain biking adventure!
Phone: +64 (0) 3 545 8484
Email: info@gravitynelson.co.nz
