History | New Zealand's Heliskiing Pioneers
Alpine Guides was set up in 1966 (originally called "Alpine Instruction Ltd"), and is New Zealand's longest established mountain and ski guiding company.
The Ben Ohau's - 1976
Wilderness Heliskiing began as "Mount Cook Heliskiing" in the Ben Ohau Range in 1976. It was the first professional heliski operation in the country.
The Ben Ohau's provided great snow, but the terrain was steep and there was little intermediate terrain. This was before fat skis were invented.
The challenging terrain and permit issues led Alpine Guides to apply for new terrain closer to Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Wilderness Heliskiing - 1996
After 10 years of trying (patience is a virtue) Wilderness Heliskiing was born in 1996 and has access to heliskiing terrain within, and just outside Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Alpine Guides is the only company permitted to operate in this area, which offers stunning views of New Zealand's highest mountains.
Alpine Guides today
The company has been privately owned since 2002 by its directors, Bryan Carter, and Kevin Boekholt. Both are fully qualified IFMGA guides, with over 55 years combined experience with the company.
Brochures from the archive. Isn't nostalgia great?
Bryan Carter and Joss Lang in the Ben Ohau's, 1985. Image by Colin Monteith.
More Alpine Guides adventures
Methven Heliskiing ›
In 1986, Methven Heliskiing was born – a venture involving the Todhunter families at Lake Heron and Glenfalloch Stations and Kevin Boekholt.
The Arrowsmiths are now a world renowned destination for professional, recreational, and novice heliskiers alike.
Ski The Tasman ›
Alpine Guides began ski guiding on the Tasman Glacier in the early 1970's, in partnership with Mount Cook Airline.
Mount Cook Ski Planes provide air access on to New Zealand's longest glacier, and the two longest runs in the Southern Hemisphere.
Ski The Tasman features mellow terrain with big mountain scenery. With your guide you can explore ice caves and other fantastic glacial formations...