All Your Questions Answered - Heli, Boat & Hike Tour FAQs

We recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots on the day walks.  Layered clothing suitable for changing alpine weather, a waterproof jacket, and a sunhat. Even on sunny days, conditions can change quickly in the mountains or on the lake.

For The Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk do consider bringing your swimsuit in the warner months as a refreshing dip is an option. 

Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera or phone (we promise you'll want photos).

We supply walking poles (if needed) and some snacks or refreshments depending on the trip.

Our trips are designed for people with a range of fitness and mobility levels. For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature walk almost every fitness level can ascend to the lake on the Island, here you might chose to relax amongst the birdsong or head to the summit We take regular breaks and always move at the pace of the group.

For the day walks we require a moderate degree of fitness and you should be comfortable spending 3 to 4 hours walking with some elevation gain required. 

Yes, our trips are family-friendly! Children need to be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and accompanied by an adult. We generally recommend ages 4 and up for Mou Waho and 8+ for Rob Roy or Heli Hikes due to the length of the walk and terrain. 

For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk we can accommodate infants and provide a back pack carrier if required. 

Safety comes first. We monitor forecasts closely and may delay or adjust departure times for better conditions. If we need to cancel due to unsafe weather, we’ll offer an alternative date or a full refund.

You are encouraged to call us the day before on +64 (0) 27 923 1420 the day before and we can give you the latest updated on what conditions you should prepare for. 

For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk, cancellations are primarily due to strong winds on the lake, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. We proceed in light rain, but if official weather warnings are in place, we will cancel to prioritize safety.

For day walks, we follow MetService warnings and cancel when advised to avoid hazardous conditions. If heavy rain is forecast with no expected improvement, we may cancel or offer an alternate hike in a safer location. Guest safety is our top priority, and we will always adjust plans to ensure the best possible experience while keeping everyone secure.

For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature walk if we were to cancel it would normally be for wind strength on the lake and we normally proceed when light rain is forecast but will cancel when warnings are in place. 

For the day walks we cancel when warnings are in place with MetService. If the forecast suggested no let up in the rain we would cancel and/or offer an alternate hike opportunity (often the weather is better closer to Wanaka). 

For Heli Hikes we must watch for low cloud cover, wind and rain which can affect visibility. 

Unlikely. Lake Wānaka has less roll than the ocean and our modern catamaran offers a stable and comfortable ride. 

We can encounter moderate sea states as we cross over the island but this is normally over in 10mins 

If you're prone to motion sickness, feel free to bring medication just in case.

Yes. All our guides are qualified in outdoor first aid, experienced in leading wilderness hikes, and equipped with communication devices and first aid kits are carried and in the vessels/vehicles.

Absolutely. We love crafting personalised experiences for couples, families, or small groups. Just let us know your interests or special requests.

We do not have bathroom facilities in our vehicles or on the vessels. At Mou Waho, there's a basic composting toilet near the track so we suggest using the facilities at the Wanaka Marina before you board. 

Ask our guides for toilet paper and sanitiser which they always carry for you convenience.

On longer hikes like Rob Roy, we advise using facilities before departure at Raspberry Creek Carpark. There is a composting toilet available as you approach the glacier.

Every Eco Adventures trip directly supports predator control, native planting, and island conservation efforts. On Mou Waho, you'll even get to plant a native tree.

Bookings cancelled by phone or email or directly online more than 24 hours before the departure time will receive a full refund. Bookings cancelled within 24hours of the trip will be charged at the full price of the trip. If we need to cancel the trip for weather or other reasons, a full refund or alternate departure time will be offered.

For the Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk you will meet us at the Wanaka Marina on Lakeside Road. There is 4 hour parking between the white lines which will cover you for the duration of the trip.