Stonefly Lodge, with it's own helipad right at the front door, and centrally located between the three major national parks provides a perfect base from which to explore the region by air. Many tailormade scenic tours can be arranged.
Depart from the helipad at Stonefly Lodge mid morning and fly northwards over the Kahurangi National Park, land on top of Hoary Head (5,000 ft) to take in the enormity of the park with 360 degree views. Take off towards the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park flying over the white sandy beaches and forest to land at Awaroa beach on the northern side of the park. You now have the option of an easy 2 hr walk (or 4 hour walk) through pristine native forest on a well signposted track to reach some of the golden sandy beaches this park is noted for. You have time to have a picnic lunch on the beach while you wait for your boat transfer along the Abel Tasman eastern coastline back to Kaiterteri where your host will be waiting to transfer you back to Stonefly Lodge. (this tour schedule can be reversed depending on the tide conditions in Abel Tasman)
Your helicopter will arrive at the Lodge at approx 9am. The two of you and your fishing guide will get on board and track to the Aorere River in the Kahurangi National Park. The Scenic views of the Kahurangi on the way are absolutely stunning as you fly over Mt Arthur. The helicopter will then descend from the mountains to land in a remote wilderness stream where the fishermen will be dropped off for a days brown trout fishing. We will then take off for a short flight to land upon Mt Olympus, a famous film site used during the filming of The Lord of the Rings.
Morning tea will be presented while you enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and stunning views all the way to the Ocean and Farewell Spit. The helicopter departs again now headed for the Wild North West Coast. Here we will land the helicopter on the remote beach for a short stroll and taking in the wind swept beauty of this rugged coastline where seals are frequently seen sunning themselves. Now onto the Abel Tasman National Park for a late lunch & swim at Awaroa Bay. Relax for the afternoon on the beach and then go and pick the fishermen up in the afternoon for return to Stonefly Lodge.
Distraught at the loss of Gandalf, the remaining members of the Fellowship escape the mines and throw themselves to the ground in their grief. Filming was undertaken here for 10 days and the results are one of the most moving moments in the film. Mt Owen Showcases some of the oldest rock in New Zealand and has priceless geological properties. As you fly toward Mt Owen, a landscape of glaciated marble karst is exposed and you appreciate the size of these giant rocks. The surface is split with crevasses and sinkholes where water has left its mark. The area also claims New Zealand’s largest underground caving system. Mt Owen is situated at the Southern end of the Kahurangi National Park ideally located to access from the helipad at Stonefly Lodge situated on the boundary of the park. Includes a pack lunch on top of Mt Owen. Tour is approx 3hrs.
Land on Mt Olympus in the centre of Kahurangi National Park, to view the strange pinnacle rock formations that were used to portray the rugged country "South of Rivendell" . It was here, as the nine rested and cooked a meal, that the crebain crows of Saruman searching for news of the One Ring spied the travellers below. Hurriedly extinquishing their fire they hid behind the pinnacles in an attempt to escape discovery. Mt Olympus sprouts rocky outcrops which over time have been eroded by weather to form incredible columnar shapes.
There a holidays... and then there are HOLIDAYS... Our stay at Stonefly was just one of those holidays that we wish could have continued for much longer... Read More
Totally in awe of John and Kates determination, skills and professional manner. The scenic helicopter flight and walk through Abel tasman was a real highlight of our 4 week... Read More
Wonderful time in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Incredible Lodge and people. Thank you for your warmth and hospitality... Read More
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