Minaret Station

Accessible only by helicopter, Minaret Station exemplifies alpine seclusion, surrounded by the rugged wilderness of the Southern Alps. The landscape is unspoilt and diverse, with glaciated valleys side-by-side with forested slopes and fertile farmland.

Accommodation at Minaret Station is spread across luxurious chalets, each surrounded by fields of herbs and alpine grasses and affording incredible views of the valley below and surrounding mountains. Each is appointed in a cosy, luxurious alpine design, with sheepskin rugs to keep out the cold, traditional fabrics adorning the walls, and a private deck, complete with hot tub, where you can relax beneath the stars in privacy. The chalets are connected to the Mountain Kitchen by a series of raised wooden boardwalks.

Modern European and Asian fusion cuisine is served up at the Mountain Kitchen, either in the dining room or in the privacy of your chalet or outdoor deck. The fertile land of the surrounding area produces much of the food you’ll find on your plate here, with venison, beef and lamb all reared at Minaret Station itself. Local suppliers provide produce such as Manuka and Rata honey, eggs, cheese and fresh fruit. Accompanying the food is a wide range of acclaimed New Zealand wines, alongside other beverages. Knowledgeable hosts will happily recommend food and wine pairings.

Chalets feature private decks with outdoor hot tubs. Guided activities are led by knowledgeable, passionate experts who will ensure that you have as safe and enjoyable a time as possible.

A range of outdoor activities are on offer at Minaret Station, many of them led by experienced guides and revolving around helicopter travel. Heli skiing and scenic helicopter flights throughout the Southern Alps are two of the more basic, but there’s also hiking and mountain biking in remote locations, jet boating up glacial rivers, and guided fishing and hunting. It’s not just for adrenaline junkies or adventurous types, either. A beautifully romantic way to spend an afternoon is with a helicopter flight to a remote alpine meadow, where you can enjoy a picnic and a bottle of champagne without another soul in sight.