MACKENZIE BASIN SPLENDOUR AND THE GREAT PASSES

Along the chain of the main divide, stretching from the shores of Lake Hawea up to the boundaries of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park lie a multitude of spectacular peaks and valleys. There are snowy tops, trout filled rivers and old beech forests with quaint backcountry huts or scenic campsites galore. This and the broad plains spilling out from these catchments of the Ahuriri, Huxley, Hopkins and Dobson rivers makes up a unique alpine adventure playground, the perfect venue for instruction, ascents, wild airy passes and deep bush trekking; and all in one of the lesser travelled corners of this wonderful country of ours.

Come share this fantastic classic kiwi environment with the locals. We have a range of trips to suit all abilities, and don't forget our chef inspired backcountry cooking.

FREEHOLD CREEK TREKS

Along the banks of Lake Ohau in the Barrier range lies a nearly neglected gem. Freehold creek track offers easy entrance to some of the best tramping country you are ever likely to see. Native Beech forest gives way to open tussock tops where we tent camp in a high cirque (rockclimbing options abound up here) before crossing over into the Maitland valley for a secluded NZ bush experience, staying at one of the remote huts in the region, and out on the third day. (In winter there is a fantastic 2 day option from Ohau ski field, via Lake Dumbell on skis, snowboards or snowshoe

 

DASSLER PINNACLES

Come climbing with us on these photogenic alpine rock pinnacles. Located only a few hours climb through native beech forest above the Hopkins river these features have it all, from easy scrambling ascents up the north ridge to multi-pitch rock climbs on the faces. Staying in an old cullers bivi just on the bushline or camping above with views a plenty, this is the ONE.


WORSHIPPING AT THE TEMPLES , NORTH-SOUTH TEMPLE TRAVERSE

A two day jaunt for the fit. Making your way up beside crystal clear waters of the North Temple Stream emerging out of the bush in an amazing mountainous cirque at it’s head before making the semi technical crossing over into the South Temple basin and down to the welcome of the fireplace at the South Temple Hut. Alternately we can tent-camp/bivi up high near the pass, before a leisurely valley stroll on the second day.

(NB: Rock rats out there take note. There are lots of long, easy multipitch rockclimbs of local peaks to be had from or near the pass!!)

Many, many more unique adventures are to be had in this secluded wonderland, contact us and have a chat!



THE GREAT PASSES

COPLAND PASS

The historic crossing of the Main Divide from Aoraki/Mt Cook village to the West Coast. This pass is rated as one of New Zealand ’s very top treks, it’s a tough tramp but a very rewarding experience.

Over the years the initial part of the route from Aoraki/Mt Cook to the pass itself has changed greatly with a major landslip making the original easy tramp to Hooker Hut impassable. I have been instrumental over the last few years in adapting the route by going up the scenic Eastern Hooker valley, then crossing over the glacial moraine and up the Copland ridge all the way to the Copland shelter, nestled under the pass itself. This gives a long (up to 10hrs) first day, but with spectacular views and of course the crossing of the pass itself is made that much easier for the second day. The Alpine crossing requires use of crampons and ice axes, our guides will train you in their use and provide safety ropes where required.

We guide this route over a 5 day period to enable you to receive the very best care and expertise from your guide the whole way out to the coast. 4 days tramping and a weather or travel day back at the end. Scenic overflights back to the Eastern side can be arranged in good weather.

THE BALL PASS

This crossing of the Mt Cook Range between the Hooker and the Tasman Glaciers is another gem featuring year-round snowfields, fantastic views of Aoraki and some of the most atmospheric camping in the National Park.

Traveling West to East (or the other way round if you prefer) this is a true alpine crossing and a perfect lead-up to other endeavors as it encompasses many of the alpine skills of cramponing and mountain movement you will need. All set in a pristine and varied landscape. This walk is a particular favourite with botanists as the selection of high alpine flowers and plants is amazing.


OR DISCOVER NEW ZEALAND ’S MANY LESSER TRAVELLED PASSES:

Broderick Pass (with ascent of Mt Strauchon),
Lennox Pass,
Goat Pass,
Cascade Saddle,
Graeme Saddle,
Tragedy Col,

to name but a few.

EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE HAUTE CUISINE

Unique dining with an award winning chef in a high altitude dining room. Overnight alpine experience packages. Fly-in, fly-out and relax in unforgettable terrain and comfort.