Epic Wilderness Locations: Kahurangi National Park

Kahurangi National Park is New Zealand’s largest national park and has captured the imagination of the film industry, featuring in iconic movies such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Our most popular locations within the park are Mt Olympus and Mt Owen, both accessible by licensed helicopter. The flights themselves are part of the experience, taking you over stunning backcountry, Kiwi farmland, and native forests, with sweeping sea views along the way.

Historically, this region enjoys some of the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand, and from June to October, snow-capped peaks add a magical touch to the landscape.

These epic wilderness locations are perfect for a romantic proposal, elopement, micro wedding, vow renewal, or simply to say, “I love you.”

Mt Olympus
The weathered rocky outcrops of Mt Olympus inspired the “South of Rivendell” scene in The Lord of the Rings, where the travelers rested and cooked dinner while Saruman’s Crebain crows searched for the One Ring.

Mt Owen
At the southern end of Kahurangi, Mt Owen was used as the backdrop for the Fellowship’s dramatic escape from Moria. The panoramic views stretch across Tasman and Golden Bay, reaching as far as the Abel Tasman National Park, and D’Urville Island, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.

Because of their remote locations, exclusivity is rarely an issue, allowing you to truly immerse yourselves in the wilderness experience.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, there are other private and national locations nearby, such as Takaka Hill and the Ngarua Caves, which offer equally stunning scenery with a gentler impact on your wallet.

These mountain destinations will require helicopter transport. Please contact us so we can discuss your options.