Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Fast Facts
A
The beautiful high-country Hakatere Conservation Park, two hours south of Christchurch
on the Inland Scenic Route (near Mt Somers), appeared as Edoras in the
Lord of the Rings
films.
A
The quickest runners complete the 25km-Avalanche Peak Challenge in around 2½ hours.
Fit trampers climb to the summit and back down again in about six hours.
A
Thanks to almost half a century of possum-eradication efforts, the Otira Valley, north of
Arthur's Pass, puts on possibly the South Island's best display of blooming rata every sum-
mer.
Top Tip
There's a good reason why tramping times in this chapter seem so long for such short dis-
tances. Mountainous terrain usually means gruelling climbs and knee-crunching descents.
Set off early and stop often for scroggin (trail mix).
Resources
