Helicopter Hunting & Fishing Drop-Offs
Fly into Canterbury’s backcountry for world-class heli fishing and hunting. Main Divide Helicopters offers flexible drop-offs and pickups for remote rivers and high-country hunts.
Experience helicopter hunting and fishing trips with a locally based team in rural Canterbury, just under an hours drive from Christchurch. Skip the cost of ferrying helicopters across the Canterbury Plains. Our base is at the foot of the mountains, giving you fast, direct access to remote high country for world-class heli hunting and fishing adventures. Park at our base and let us fly you into the heart of New Zealand’s rugged backcountry.
Self Guided Trips
Get a group of mates together and escape to the mountains for a hunting or fishing trip. We can fly you to a large number of huts or open tops throughout the Canterbury High Country.
Guided Hunting
We have partnered with some of the best guides in Canterbury who truly know the mountains like the back of their hands. They have all the great spots to land your next chamois or red deer trophy.
Guided High Country Trout Fishing
Bring your fishing rod and let us take you to some of the best trout fishing spots in the South Island. Miles away from the nearest road it’s not only great fishing but amazing scenery as well. All trips are personalised and unique to each group.
2026 ROAR
Now taking bookings for 2026 Roar season! Get in touch to secure your place.
FAQs
Planning a heli-hunting or heli-fishing trip in Canterbury’s high country? We’ve answered a few of the most common questions below – from what to bring and where we can land, to how we handle gear, pickups, and weather. If you can’t find the answer you’re after, get in touch – we’re always happy to help plan your next helicopter adventure.
What happens if the weather changes?
Safety always comes first. Canterbury’s alpine weather can shift quickly, and if conditions aren’t suitable for flying, we’ll work with you to reschedule or adjust your pickup time. Our pilots know the terrain and conditions well – you’ll always be in safe hands.
Do you have room for firearms or fishing gear on board?
Yes – our helicopters have spacious external cargo pods designed to safely carry all your hunting or fishing equipment, including firearms, rods, packs, and camping gear. Whether you’re flying in for a heli-hunting trip or a remote fishing drop-off, we’ll make sure all your gear comes with you securely and efficiently.
How do we book or get a quote?
You can send us an enquiry through our Contact us page or give us a call. Let us know your preferred dates, number of people, and the general area you’d like to explore, and we’ll tailor a flight plan to suit your trip.
Can you pick us up from a remote hut or riverbed?
Absolutely. We regularly complete pickups from remote huts, riverbeds, and alpine locations throughout Canterbury’s high country. Whether you’re finishing a heli-hunting trip or wrapping up a backcountry fishing adventure, our pilots can collect you and your gear directly from your location – no long walkouts required.
What do I need to bring for a heli fishing trip?
We recommend packing light but prepared. Bring your fishing rod, tackle, waders, warm layers, sunscreen, food, and plenty of water. A camera is a must – the scenery is unreal. If you’re planning to stay overnight, pack your camping gear and we’ll stow it safely in the helicopter cargo pod. Our team can also advise on the best setup for your chosen river or lake.
Where do your heli hunting and fishing trips depart from?
All flights depart from our base in Springfield, right at the foothills of the Southern Alps – the perfect launch point for accessing Canterbury’s rivers, lakes, and backcountry hunting areas. It’s only about an hour from Christchurch.
Our Location
Perfectly positioned at the foothills of the Southern Alps, our base in Springfield offers direct access to some of Canterbury’s best hunting and fishing terrain. Within minutes of take-off, you can be casting into crystal-clear alpine rivers or glassing for tahr and red deer across untouched high country.
Corner of Dalethorpe and Mill Road, Sheffield, Canterbury
NZ South Island Hunting Calendar
January
Stripper Stags
February
Stripper Stags
March
Red Stags (roar season)
April
Red Stags (roar season)
May
Red Stags (roar season)
ChamoisJune
Chamois
TahrJuly
Tahr
August
September
October
November
December
maindivideheli.co.nz 