If you want a challenging "real NZ" trekking experience, this is without a doubt "THE" trek to do in Mount Aspiring National Park. Once the grassy flats of the Wilkin valley are left behind there are no more huts. The unspoilt mountain valleys, alpine meadows, huge waterfalls and awesome campsites provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Four days of some of the finest mountain terrain New Zealand has to offer. From rain forest to hanging glaciers there is no better way to escape the crowds and usual tourist trail. If you are fit and not afraid of heights, you will not find a better way to experience the fantastic mountains of New Zealand.
The Rabbit Pass Guided Trek is located in New Zealand's Mount Aspiring National Park. This challenging four day hike takes you from ancient Beech forest to alpine meadows. This area is so spectacular, it is designated a World Heritage Area. Surrounded by glacier covered peaks and waterfalls, is one of the greatest collections of alpine plants in the world. This is also home to the Kea, the only alpine parrot on earth.
Our professional guide will ensure your safety as we explore this remote and seldom visited area. Hiking times are kept achievable (5-9 hours hiking a day) to leave time for relaxing photography or side trips. All food and overnight gear is supplied; all you carry is a light day pack.
Evenings are spent at our spectacular campsites. Our camps are our home in the hills and we pride ourselves on luxurious and environmentally aware sites. Sit back while we prepare an outrageously good meal. We supply everything you need to relax and enjoy this alpine paradise.
New Zealand is a truly unique country. Due to its geographic isolation many plants and animals have evolved which exist no where else on earth. The only way to appreciate this biodiversity and get a sense of how glaciation shaped the southern alps is to walk through the densely forested valleys, relax by the crystal clear rivers and endure the trek up to a high alpine pass.
Itinerary
Day one
Upper Wilkin Camp Day We meet with transport and guide at 8:30 a.m. and travel 45 minutes to the small village of Makarora. Here we board a small fixed wing aircraft and fly into the heart of Mount Aspiring Park. A leisurely 2-hour walk brings us to the Top Forks Hut. The walking is not difficult but it is exciting with numerous river crossings and your first taste of wilderness travel. The afternoon is spent exploring this marvellous area. In poor weather we can Jet boat some of the way.
Day two
Pass Day The route follows the southern fork of the river into bush and rises to open out into sub-alpine vegetation. It's steady going across the tussock and snowgrass towards the infamous Waterfall face (3 hours walking). We break for sushi. Once the Waterfall face is broached, the pass is crossed in 2 hours. The 1-2 hour walk down to the camp at the base of the pass finishes with a good food and comfortable camping.
Day three
Gorge Day This day starts with a 2-hour wander down river to Ruth Flat a mountain paradise, which must be visited to be believed. The river becomes gorged and the route again climbs out of the forest into the sub-alpine. After a 3 hour uphill bush walk the trip crosses high above the gorge for 1- 2 hours. The same camp luxuries greet you along with a high alpine view of Mount Aspiring and the Coxcomb Ridge.
Day four
Matukituki Downhill A leisurely breakfast of blueberry pancakes and a 1-hour descent through native bush, gets you to the fantastic rock swimming pools. The trail follows the river through majestic beech forest for 3 hours. Gradually signs of civilization appear as the valley opens out. One last river crossing and the trip of a lifetime draws to a close. The van is waiting for the 40 minute ride back to Wanaka. We usually arrive back in Wanaka around 4:30pm.
Prerequisites
Hard Grade. Require a high level of fitness and balance. Hiking days a maximum of 8 hours. The terrain includes areas where there is no trail and footing can be on loose rock or otherwise insecure. Occasionally there is exposure to heights where falling is a possibility if care is not taken. Previous hiking experience required. Large ascents (1000m/3300ft +-) and descents can be expected. Light packs are carried.
