Getting to Waitutu Forest Lodge

On the wild south coast, with the Southern Ocean, ancient forest and 27km of the Wairaurahiri River separating you from civilisation, getting here is part of the adventure. Watched over by Ngāi Tahu tūpuna, the lodge can be reached by either jetboat or helicopter.

Jetboat transfers down the Wairaurahiri River

​The Wairaurahiri River begins at Lake Hauroko, which is the deepest  lake in New Zealand. The river falls 180 meters to sea level and is 27 kilometers of grade 3 white water rapids.  It's been described by many as the “longest waterfall” in New Zealand. 
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Two jet boat companies – Wairaurahiri Wilderness Jet, skippered by Roffy or Wairaurahiri Jet skippered by Johan, offer an exhilarating experience to Waitutu Forest Lodge. Travelling at high speed along the bush-bound river is like travelling back in time to a prehistoric era. This is a journey deep into the southern wilderness of Fiordland. 

Helicopter transfers

OPTION 1: Helicopter transfer with Fiordland Helicopters
There are times when the river is too low to access the Lodge by Jet Boat, so taking a Helicopter ride is sometimes more convenient. Dale Green, our Pilot who works for Fiordland Helicopters, has been taking guests and hunters to Waitutu Forest Lodge for many years. Dale pilots the helicopter with such precision to enable his passengers to see the very best of the south coast and Waitutu forest. It is a perfect way to take in the magnificence of the area.
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The Helicopter leaves from Te Anau or Rarakau Carpark (at the start of the Hump Ridge Track) – and drops you off outside the Waitutu Forest Lodge a very short time later. 

They will also customise a scenic trip if guests would like that with stops at various places.
 
Fiordland Helicopters
Phone +64 3 249 7575 
www.fiordlandhelicopters.co.nz
[email protected]
OPTION 2: Helicopter transfer with Southern Lakes Helicopters from Te Anau
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Southern Lakes Helicopters
Phone: +64 3 249 7167
www.southernlakeshelicopters.co.nz