CURRENT ALERTS
Taipoiti River blocked by ice
The Taipoiti River is not safely passable as the winter ice in the canyon has now collapsed creating large unstable blocks. Loose boulders are also an issue.
Thieves breaking into vehicles
Thieves have been breaking into cars and motor-homes at various car-parks and some camp-sites along SH.73 on a regular basis (day & night). They have been stealing passports, credit cards, money, electronic devices and recreation equipment. Take your absolute valuables with you on the walks, and don't leave other valuable items in plain sight in your vehicle. Report any suspicious activity to Police '111', and note down registration plates of vehicles!
NZ Mountain Radio Service discontinued
The NZ Mountain Radio Service was discontinued on 30th June 2023. This will affect the radios in CMC huts Barker & Park Morpeth in Arthur's Pass National Park. Consider carrying an alternative method of emergency contact if using these huts eg. Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and get current long-term weather forecasts before heading into the back-country.
Flood bypass track not usable
The Waimakariri River has changed course upstream of the Anti Crow River junction. This has effectively cut-off the upstream entrance to a section of marked track here in flood or high water conditions. To bash past this section requires the crossing of two slippery waterfall faces just metres above the swift river. In low water conditions follow the riverbed crossing the river as required.
Clough cableway CLOSED!
The Clough cableway, near Carrington hut, is CLOSED. It has sustained damage to it's draw cable. It cannot be used! The White River can only be crossed whilst in normal or low flows.
Seven Mile Creek track washed out
Recent severe flooding of Seven Mile Creek (Taipo Valley, Dillons huts) has washed away the lower part of the tramping track leading to the Kelly Range. Travel would be dangerous if the creek is in high flow!
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Harman Pass
WARNINGS
2015 - There is a large slip on track upstream of Scotty's Cableway. The slip has wiped out the steep section of track over the bluff to Scotty's Cableway on the true left of the Taipo River. This extremely steep section is suitable for highly experience users only. |
Photo by Richard Strong with thanks!
TIME : 3-4 days
FEATURES : Braided River, Alpine pass on the Main Divide, Rainforest, Hot springs (maybe)
MAP : NZTopo50: Otira BV20, Moana BU20 (NZMS260: Otira K33, Wilberforce K34)
HOW HARD IS IT?
If the White River is low enough ford it near the Clough Cableway. If the White River is too high it is very likely you will have problems in the Taipoiti & Mary Creeks, so using the cableway may not gain you very much.
During December there is still snow on steep head of the Taipoiti This trip requires excellent river reading skills, as there are several difficult rivers to cross. You must have previous experience tramping above the bush-line without a track (route).
You should be aware of the signs and symptons of hypothermia, and be fit.
Don't listen to us..here are the words of a happy tramper..."It is a challenging, relentless series of river crossings, boulder hopping, scree-field scrambles, steep rooted rocky 'trails' and a few bluffs that require basic rock climbing skills"
WHERE DO I START?
Start at Klondyke Corner, 12km south of Arthur's Pass.
HUTS
Carrington Hut: 36 bunks
Julia Hut: 6 bunks
Mid Taipo Hut: 6 bunks
Dillons Hut: New 10 bunk
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 So you have an enjoyable and safe time for your visit to Arthur's Pass National Park, follow the Land Safety Code:
- Choose the right trip
- Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather
- It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food
- Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help
- Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.
- Take care of yourself and each other
- Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.
For more information, visit www.adventuresmart.nz/land/activities/ or use the Plan My Walk system planmywalk.nz/home
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