Heli Matai Peak

As you lift off from the edge of Christchurch City see the green lattice of farm land stretch to the horizon, interrupted only by the braided river of the Waimakiriri and the mighty ridges of the Southern Alps. Flying directly Northwest, enjoy the sights of the Okuku and towering Puketeraki Ranges. Soar around the peaks surrounding Lake Sumner National Park and its neighbouring velvet green native forest, juxtaposed against the winding riverbed at the valley floor and frosty tussocks at the mountain tops. As your pilot makes a turn east, peek in at Hanmer Township, known for its natural thermal hot springs, before emerging at the lush coastal pastures of the Conway Flats.

Wedged between the winding Hunadalee Hills and the salty Angus Stud, the iconic Te Mania. Easing down, land at a private and secluded hut on the property to be greeted by the farmer for a lunch of locally sourced and produced delicacies, including New Zealand’s famous lamb and beef along with a selection of highly sought after seafood sourced from the near surroundings – along with salad greens grown on the property.

After lunch, take in the salty sea air as you climb aboard a 4×4 with the farmer for a full tour of the extraordinarily lush pastures and incredible vistas of the property, punctuated by stories and anecdotes of their day to day undertaking and family history.

After lunch, take in the salty sea air as you climb aboard a 4×4 with the farmer for a full tour of the extraordinarily lush pastures and incredible vistas of the property, punctuated by stories and anecdotes of their day to day undertaking and family history. Along the way you can take the opportunity to come face to face with some of New Zealand’s finest bred Angus Bulls, but there’s nothing to be afraid of, these big fellas are as friendly as they are massive. Bred for their temperament, Te Mania proudly encourages prospective buyers and sightseers alike to walk around, up close and personal with their prize bulls and stud cows. If you feel like a drink before departing, drop into Te Mania’s Saloon – a private and quirky bar full of tradition, memorabilia and history of the farm – for a well-earned refreshment, before boarding the helicopter to return to Christchurch along the rugged east coast.