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Guided Luxury Adventure

Luxury Travel & Adventure Experiences in Nelson, New Zealand

Home / Day Trips / Dun Mountain Heli Hike

Dun Mountain Heli Hike

The Dun Mountain Trail Heli-hike is an easy and accessible walk behind Nelson City. Beginning at 3000ft in open alpine tussock, the trail descends through beautiful mountain beech forest on the bed of an old mid 1800’s mining trail, with expansive views of Tasman Bay.

Am I the first one to write a review of Simply Wild? If yes it's really an honor. Rob Douglas is one of the best wildlife guys I've ever met, experienced, knowledgeable and amicable. Also the helicopter service Helicopters Nelson he uses is very, very trustworthy. Rob took us on the Dun Mountain hiking trail in Nelson and explained about the history and the nature. What an enjoyable day we had with him.
Sakari Huovinen - Finland

Locations: Dun Mountain Walkway| Mt Richmond Forest ParkActivities: Helicopter based trips| Walking/HikingDuration: One Day

Trip Detail

The Mount Richmond Forest Park is a rugged, mountainous, mainly forest clad Park sitting between the Nelson and Marlborough regions. While literally on Nelson’s doorstep, it is relatively undiscovered by visitors, and infrequently visited by experienced trampers due to its rugged nature and challenging access to its interior.

We access the hike on a relatively short helicopter flight from our base or your Lodge, landing at around 1000 metres (3000ft). The hike is a relatively easy 2 – 3 hour walk, initially on a rocky trail over uneven ground through alpine tussock in a dramatic landscape, before joining the wide and gentle gradient of the Dun Mountain Trail. The trail, formed on the bed of New Zealand’s first railway (horse drawn) built in 1850, has been a well known Nelson hiking trail for many years. It is now part of The New Zealand Cycle Trail Network, and one of the country’s premier mountain biking trails.

The helicopter flies a short distance down to wait at Third House shelter. About halfway down to Third House, the trail enters lush beech forest with the trail wide and leaf littered, dropping steeply away to the valley on the downhill side.

The trip provides wonderful views of the top of the South Island across the Marlborough Sounds to the North Island, Kaikoura, Marlborough, and Nelson and Tasman Bay.

The Dun Mountain heli-hike is suitable for a wide range of walkers as the trail gradient is easy and downhill. The initial rocky part of the hike can be avoided if clients prefer. The total trip takes about 3 – 4 hours from takeoff to return.

Included

Collection from and return to your Lodge or accommodation, helicopter, Guide and lunch.

We can supply extra clothing, day packs and walking poles if required.

FAQs

How strenuous is the hike?

It is an easy hike, mainly gently downhill. The initial section requires some agility.

What kind of gear/clothing do I need?

This is an alpine trip and the weather can change quickly in New Zealand. You should have a polypropylene or wool undergarment next to your skin, shirt, and a warm fleece or wool pullover, plus a windproof jacket. Most New Zealanders wear shorts, preferably of the quick drying type, although travel type trousers are fine. Light hiking shoes, trainers or running shoes are adequate for this trip. A day pack and water bottle are useful (we can also supply these).

 

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Simply Wild Journeys logo

Since 2006 Simply Wild Journeys have been offering unique privately guided trips in the top of New Zealand’s beautiful South Island.

Encompassing walking and hiking, cycling and mountain biking, sailing, sea kayaking, and rafting, plus exploring the regions art, wine and culture, Simply Wild Journeys can provide you with a wonderful private day or multiday trip to remember during your New Zealand vacation.

On a Simply Wild trip you can see, do and enjoy more at your own pace. “It’s our experience that makes us special”.

EST. 2006
Dun Saddle, Richmond Forest Park, New Zealand
Coppermine Saddle – Dun Mountain
Third House – Dun Mountain helihike

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About Simply Wild Journeys

Simply Wild Journeys are the experts in private bespoke luxury travel & adventure experiences in Nelson, New Zealand.

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About The Nelson Region

There’s nowhere else in the world where you’ll find, within a short distance, three spectacular National Parks, glistening golden sand beaches and turquoise crystal clear waters, alongside alpine meadows and snowy mountain ranges.

Enjoy all year in a climate that rivals the Mediterranean.

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