A high country history | Methven Heliskiing
In 1985, during a family heliskiing day with Alpine Guides at Mt Cook, Tom Todhunter realised the potential of Glenfalloch Station, and the surrounding mountains.
In 1986 Methven Heliskiing began: a joint venture with Alpine Guides (Mount Cook) Ltd, the company that pioneered NZ heliskiing in the Ben Ohau Range in 1976.
The original shareholders were Bob and Tom Todhunter who ran Lake Heron and Glenfalloch Stations - in partnership with Jim and Ju Morris from Manuka Point Station.
Marketing to the unbelievers
AGL Guides Bryan Carter, Dave McNulty and Jos Lang took turns to go around the Methven pubs at night with a few photos in an album, trying to talk people into coming out.
A major issue was no one can see the Arrowsmiths from the Canterbury Plains - hardly anyone would believe the scale of the terrain!
On the first exploratory day they skied runs on the Reisheck Glacier, Cameron Glacier, and a run later named “Mexican Madness”.
The first few years
Once word of mouth got out about Methven Heliskiing the momentum never stopped - with 119 guests in the first season, and 200 in year two…
The first guests were mostly from Australia and Japan, and a few Americans. Kevin Boekholt came onboard in 1988 and has been director since.
Back in 1986 snowboards were never seen, and fat skis were yet to be invented. Guests could only ski a fraction of the terrain available, due to limitations of traditional gear.
Expanding the range
We've worked closely with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and local landowners, adding terrain as land came available though the tenure review process (high country land surrendered to DOC).
Methven Heliskiing has gone from strength to strength. The Arrowsmiths are now a destination for recreational and professional snowboarders and skiers from around the world.
Kevin on the Reischek Glacier - circa 1992. Image by James Kay.
Tom Todhunter, with Suzie Kay, circa 1992.