Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
Planning
WHEN TO TRAMP
The Arthur's Pass mountains not only attract bad weather, they create it, so expect to en-
counter conditions colder, windier and wetter than the lowlands either side. The most un-
settled weather occurs in spring and autumn. Heavy rain is common in November and early
December, resulting in impassable rivers. All but low-level tramps should be avoided in
winter.
All the tramps in the area are best undertaken from November to March, with the best
weather generally encountered in February and March. Note, though, that it's never going to
get that hot, with an average maximum for Arthur's Pass in February of 17.5°C.
Be very wary of setting off before, after or during heavy rain, and in strong winds or
when low cloud is hanging around. Check in at the DOC Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre to
check the latest forecast and get a second opinion.
WHAT TO BRING
Pack rain gear and warm clothing whenever you embark on a tramp in the park, especially if
you are heading above the bushline. The saddles and ridges will likely be cold and windy no
matter how blue the sky.
MAPS & BROCHURES
With broad coverage and sufficient detail, NewTopo
Arthur's Pass
1:55,000 is ideal for trip
planning. For safe navigation you can purchase the requisite NZTopo50 maps at the Ar-
thur's Pass Visitor Centre, where you can also obtain DOC's
Discover Arthur's Pass
bro-
chure, an excellent and comprehensive guide to the park.
INFORMATION SOURCES
DOC Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre
( 03-318 9211;
www.doc.govt.nz;
SH73; 8am-5pm Oct-
Apr, 8.30pm-4.30pm May-Sep)
houses the DOC field centre. It can advise on all park tramps,
sells Topo maps and hut tickets, hires locator beacons and issues updates on the savagely
changeable weather. It doesn't make onward bookings or reservations, but can help with
local accommodation and transport. There are interesting information displays, including a
17-minute video on the history of the area.
If you're coming from Christchurch, the DOC Christchurch Visitor Centre (
Click here
)
also offers all necessary DOC services and resources, including track bookings, hut tickets,
