Aloft with Heletranz

Aloft with Heletranz

27/02/2013 0 By Chris Parnell

 

Have you ever experienced the dilemma of truly wanting to impress someone but not knowing where to turn?

Recently faced with this problem, I racked my brain, and the little book of secrets, for what seemed like hours. Nothing seemed to really fit the bill. I wanted something decadent, something unbelievably memorable, something the recipient would delight over for years to come.

Going through my enormous collection of business cards, I stumbled across Tony Monk’s company and bells began to ring. Having met Tony Monk at one of our client outings not too long ago, I knew a little about what his company, Heletranz, had to offer, but promptly set about researching in more depth.

With over twenty years of operational experience, Jenny and Tony Monk’s company is fairly well renown when it comes to aerial filming and their commercial work. What I hadn’t realised, was the extent to which their services ranged.

For those after a bird’s eye view of Auckland’s CBD and outlying suburbs, their scenic flights are the perfect option. Whether one? opts for the Auckland or West Coast adventures, make sure to take your camera as you’ll be treated to views like no other. Soar over the Chelsea Sugar Works, past the Harbour Bridge and the Viaduct; hover along beaches made famous in the movie The Piano, volcanic cones and burgeoning vines.

When it comes to dining in style, what could be more luxurious than being flown to one of New Zealand’s finest selections of restaurants. Tours are offered to venues such as Cable Bay or Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant on Waiheke Island. Both wineries offer glorious views in picturesque settings. Swoop past Rangitoto, Motuihe and Motutapu islands as you head for your destination where, on arrival, you’re greeted with a glass of wine before indulging in a superb three-course meal. After a relaxed coffee post-meal, you’ll have the option of being flown back to the heliport or transferring to Matiatia wharf for a leisurely ferry transfer back to Auckland.

If you’re considering something a little more lengthy than a lunch or dinner flight, perhaps an overnight stay at Delamore Lodge will do it for you. Delamore Lodge was inspired by the timeless romance of the Mediterranean and local architect, Ron Stevenson, has worked with owner Roselyn Barnett-Storey to create a masterpiece offering breathtaking views in a truly unique environment. Sup Bollinger while your bags are stowed and then partake in pre-dinner drinks and hors d’eourves before a four-course dinner that will satisfy the most discerning. Retire to your exquisitely luxurious accommodation for a sound night’s sleep, before breakfasting and then heading home.

The dining and overnight adventures mentioned above are exclusive to Heletranz and, in some cases, landings are limited, so it would pay to book in advance if you don’t want to be disappointed.

For the sporting enthusiasts, I couldn’t think of anything better than what Tony refers to as “Adventure Golfing”. After just over an hour in the executive helicopter over some of NZ’s most incredible beaches and scenery, you’ll touch down at Kauri Cliffs in the beautiful Matauri Bay. Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, designed by David Harman, is one of the world’s top-rated courses. Six holes are played alongside cliffs that plunge to the sea, and views span from the Cavelli Islands to Cape Brett.

Your pilot will diligently wait for up to five hours as you enjoy your round of golf, no matter how many shots over or under par you may shoot. If your golf is anything like mine, and you tend to take a little longer than expected, don’t fret – the pilot won’t go without you – it will cost a little extra, but he’ll still be there when you sink that final putt!

Golf is just one of the adventures though – there are options such as heli-surfing at a range of great surf breaks, heli-rally drive where you can enjoy either a rally or hotseat experience, or heli-quad adventures at Muriwai beach. Then there’s the Tour of Duty, employing a genuine troop transporter and army-issue clothing. For those who enjoy a little mystique, the Mystery Trail will be right up your alley – on your group’s arrival at an unknown island location, you’ll be faced with navigational and orienteering challenges leading you to yet another secret location for lunch or dinner.

I’ve learned that one great asset to making a booking with the likes of Heletranz is that many of their packages can be tweaked a little to suit each booking. You can add on an extra bit here, nip off a bit there, have limousine transfers to and from the heliport arranged, and much more – sometimes, all you have to do is ask.

So, yes, I did find just what I was looking for – and much more!

Contact: Heletranz, www.heletranz.co.nz, T: +64 9 415 3550

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