As stated prior, its a DoC rule.
There are a few other pads where DoC allow operators to drop off hunters, some of which may be seasonal, I think? Like Tiraki, Thunderbolt etc. There were a handful of pads in the Remote Experience Zone (Whakamarumaru, Ecology and another I can't recall) that were open to hunters in spring, but that was canned about 10 years ago. Basis of that decision was that those pads were open to facilitate animal control, and not enough were being shot to deliver ecological gains, so given they were in the REZ they were closed.
If you have a look at the Sika Foundation FB page you will see DoC have made specific arrangements with that entity to allow its members to fly to places you generally can't for organised management hunts a few times a year. Helisika support it with discounted flight costs.........
Helisika and Lakeland used to be a bit flexible and drop you off on their land next to DoC land if you were heading off onto the adjacent DoC land.....not sure they do so any longer?
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