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NZ Hiking & Climbing Calendar
Monthly Information Resource
What time of year is the best for tramping and climbing in the South Island mountains?
It is one of the most asked questions and unfortunately there is no simple answer.
Pick a month you wish know about -
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov |Dec
Follow the links for in depth information and photos.
January
Summer has had time to settle in. The changeable spring weather gives way to more stable, less windy weather. Large high pressure weather systems begin to dominate. The days are long and school holidays mean that this is the busy time of year. Wanaka and Queenstown are traditional summer getaways for Kiwis. Lakes are still cold but boating fishing and tramping are all in full swing.
Climbing and Mountaineering
There is still winter snow around so mountaineering access is generally good with crevasses still well filled in. By the end of the month glacial snow tends to be harder making walking easier even in the afternoon or on warmer days with no freeze. Avalanche hazards are low unless there are unseasonable snowfalls, but beware, avalanche hazard forecasts are not current and it is hard to get any reliable avalanche information. Use caution. Later in the month, firm snow conditions and long daylight hours mean that early morning starts are often not as crucial as previous. Steeper non-permanent ice routes are becoming out of condition due to warm temps and a lack of cold southerly precipitation. Longer rock routes are becoming free of snow and ice. Ski touring is not recommended due to hard snow and ice and opening crevasses.
Trekking
Snow covered passes such as the Copeland, Ball Pass or Bevan Col are firm enough to cross on foot without serious post holing. Summer passes which need to be snow free such as Gillespie, and Rabbit Pass or Cascade Saddle are reliably clear now. Rivers tend to be higher in the afternoon due to snow melt, some of the usual river crossings are trickier than normal, particularly on rainy days. Be prepared to turn back and wait or stick to tracks that are well bridged (ask at local DOC office). Alpine Gentians and Edelweiss are in flower through an and February but the Mount Cook Lilies are beginning to die out, although there are always a few to be found even in late fall. Dept. of Conservation huts are usually full - bring a tent and/or avoid the more popular tracks.
February
February and March are usually the most reliable good weather of the year. School holidays are over early Feb. and Kiwis tend to end their summer holidays. Similar to August in the northern hemisphere, February is the warmest month but even the hottest weather has cool night time temperatures, particularly in the mountains. Unlike the Rockies or European alps, afternoon rain and /or thunderstorms are not a frequent feature in New Zealand (but they can happen). Lake surfaces begin to warm and swimming becomes a more realist option (especially if you are allergic to cold water as I am). This a great time of year to camp out, particularly during the full moon.
Climbing and Mountaineering
The glaciers begin to loose their coat of winter snow exposing the hard permanent ice or rock below. Route finding in crevasse fields such as those accessing Mnt. Cook or Mnt. Aspiring becomes more complex but still usually passable. While bergshrunds often begin to cause difficulties accessing alpine rock, most routes are still reachable. Climbs which rely on snow and ice to prevent rockfall are best avoided.
Trekking
On a sweltering hot day it is hard to believe that you need to pack a warm hat and thick fleece but while cold weather is the exception, it can never be entirely discounted. Having said that, Feb. is the time for taking advantage of all those beautiful swimming holes the trail passes. There is a narrow window of time that it is hot enough to enjoy the fabulous turquoise pools and waterfalls which abound - take advantage of it. Tracks that are in the open can often be uncomfortably hot (enjoy it while it lasts) but the canopy of the rain forest is always a welcome relief on hot days. River levels are more predictable and unless there is a heavy rain, standard river crossings will be safe (Bear in mind that all river crossings need caution).
March
March is the end of high summer; while the weather remains warm and stable the days start to become noticeably shorter at the end of the month when day light savings starts. There are fewer tourists visiting this time of year so there tends to be more room in huts and busy tracks. It is usually the driest summer month with lake and river levels often at their lowest.
Climbing and Mountaineering
Hard ice on the glaciers means glacier travel is often difficult with few leads through the more broken areas. Some routes may be totally cut off depending on the year. Routes like the Linda Glacier or the Hooker Valley access to Mnt. Cook or the Ramp or French Ridge access to Mnt. Aspiring will sometimes be impassable, check with local climbers or DOC. Soft snow anchors such as snow stakes become less useful and ice screws and rock gear become the tools of choice on many routes.
Trekking
Generally warm weather with cooler mornings. Valley floors get noticeably less sun and are cool in the morning, particularly with southerly clear weather. Pleasant trekking conditions and fewer people in the hills make this an excellent time to tramp. Rivers remain low unless there is unusually heavy rain.
April
Fall temperatures fluctuating between hot days and cold nights. Fall is known for its lack of wind, lack of rain and long fine spells. The days are significantly shorter with frost on most clear still nights, especially in the mountains. Occasional stormy weather leaves snow at higher elevations, usually melting off soon after it clears. While there are few deciduous tree species in the native forest, introduced trees change colour producing beautiful fall vistas particularly around Wanaka and Arrowtown. Fewer visitors mean that huts are often unoccupied and even popular routes are uncrowded.
Climbing and Mountaineering
With careful attention to weather forecasts, good climbing conditions exist for many alpine routes, particularly rock routes with sunny aspects. Thin new snow on rock routes is best avoided; usually a warm day will clear new snow. Shorter days mean early starts, bring a headlamp. Access is still difficult depending on the season and the route.
Trekking
Many people consider fall the most beautiful time of the year, particularly for short walks around Wanaka. The fall colours are exquisite with the tall rows of poplar and liquid amber trees which line the lake. The stable weather makes overnight trips in the mountains pleasant but cold temperatures often mean short days, a warm hut is well appreciated. While major tracks like the Routeburn "close" this month, you can still walk the track but it is on a winter standing without radios, flush toilets or LPG available.
May
May is often the hinge season between the clear fall season and the woolly winter weather. The good weather is often affected by temperature inversions which leave cold fog in the valleys and brilliant sunshine in the hills. With a good forecast it is frequently better in the mountains than under the blanket of fog which can persist at the lower elevations. While not common, southerly storms can bring unexpectedly large amounts of snow to the mountains.
Climbing and Mountaineering
Depending on the season winter conditions may exist on alpine routes. Dry conditions with good weather can result in excellent late season climbing conditions. On the other hand one or two periods of poor weather and precipitation can lead to deep snow. In this case access may be difficult due to crevasses being barely covered and/or avalanche hazard. Be prepared for anything on longer trips and keep a good eye on the weather forecast. Start early and make sure you have lots of headlamp batteries. It is often surprisingly warm crag climbing in the Matukituki Valley.
Trekking
Cold temperatures and little sun in the valleys means that often trekkers are in freezing or near freezing temperatures, particularly in clear cold southerly weather. Once moving it is often very pleasant and some routes with lots of northerly exposure are warm, but river crossings and early morning travel are cold on the feet. Unless the weather is perfect, above tree line routes are treacherous due to cold temperatures, wind and snow. Passes are often impassable without ice axe and crampons and the skill to use them. The good news is that cold overnight temperatures will keep the sand flies away (for the morning) allowing you to drink your morning coffee in comfort.
June
Frequently the coldest month of the year, June is considered the first month of real winter. Temperatures will dip below freezing most nights, especially if there is a clear sky. Snow is frequent although it seldom accumulates below 1400m. Cold and showery southerly and westerly winds are frequent.
Climbing and Mountaineering
June can deal up a wide variety of climbing and mountaineering conditions. Sometimes early season ice climbing is good with cold temps and a lack of snow making access safe and easy. On the other hand, early snow can mean ski touring is in full swing. Cold temperatures and short days can lead to great powder snow in the backcountry. Beware weak snow pack conditions; early season avalanche accidents are common.
Tramping
The Department of Conservation will down grade tracks and facilities for the winter months. Huts do not have wardens and facilities such as gas burners, radios or flush toilets are locked up for the year. While they try to give the impression that tracks are "closed", it is possible to walk any of the standard summer routes weather and conditions permitting. Routes with passes over 1000m may have avalanche hazards and are to be avoided unless you are experienced with travel in avalanche terrain. While few people tramp this time of year there is a particular satisfaction in the solitude available in winter Southern Alps.
July
July is when the snow in the high country finally has time to accumulate. While snow flurries to the valley floor are common it is unusual to get snow that remains below 1300m. Along with June, this is the coldest time of year in the Queenstown/Wanaka area. Ski areas are now open (finally). Southerly winds bring a mix of snow showers in the mountains and cold fine weather. When it is good it is very good, but when it is bad it is a cold mix of snow and rain.
Climbing and Mountaineering
Ski touring is major way to get around in the mountains now. There are a few good locations for local ice climbing that can be reached as a day trip. Wait for cold clear skies and avoid any warm North-westerly weather. It can be surprisingly good rock climbing on North exposures on fine afternoons. Touring in the mountains is excellent but have a good knowledge of glacier travel and avalanche hazards before you go into the glacier regions.
Tramping
Despite the fact that very few people hike in the winter here, for some folks it is the best time of year to get out. The lack of people means that the busier tracks can be enjoyed in solitude. Tracks that are bridged and avoid too many river crossings can be spectacular with the contrast of the snow and temperate rain forest. Tracks are slow to dry out after a rain so bring extra warm socks.
August
This is the most reliable time of year for skiing; the sun is still low enough to be cold but the snow has had time to reach a good depth. The slightly warmer weather in August means much less inversion and ground fog conditions. Often the weather seems much clearer in August, particularly in the valleys. There is a lot of snow and changeable conditions in the higher mountains.
Climbing and Mountaineering
While ski touring is the bulk of mountain activity in the winter, climbing conditions can be surprisingly good. There is often a southerly clearance after bad weather, a cold snap after warm weather amd wind can mean that the snow at higher elevations is frozen hard. Many ridge routes are particularly easy travel under these conditions and many of New Zealand's premier routes have been done at this time of year. Any high routes this time of year should only be undertaken with caution, local knowledge, avalanche awareness and good weather are important.
Tramping
While winter still has the mountains in its clutches, August sees it begin to loosen its grip. As always, tramping during extended fine breaks is fantastic. Tracks that are in wider valley bottoms get enough sun to make pleasant walking. Most valley floors range from 300m-500m in altitude with trees approaching the snowline at 1300m. Rather than looking for routes that do a round trip which necessitate going over a high pass, often it is best to visit a particular hut and do day trips from there.
September
Winter does not last long in New Zealand and September sees a major difference in the weather. By the end of the month lambing is in full swing and flowers are blooming in the towns. While it is still good skiing the contrast between the mountains and the valleys is dramatic. It can be full on winter at the ski areas with shorts and tee shirt weather in town. Days are noticeably longer and the sun begins to get some heat back into it. Spring snow conditions are interrupted with new snowfalls, often the heaviest of the season.
Climbing and Mountaineering
While spring is approaching in the lower elevations, winter conditions still exist in the high mountains. Heavy snow can be expected. Good access to climbs exists due to snow and if freeze thaw conditions exist, good climbing can be had during fine spells. Watch for falling ice immediately after storms, as a rule it is best to wait a day or two after bad weather to let conditions stabilize. The Matukituki Valley has some of the best crag climbing in New Zealand. Local shops have guide books for the area.
Tramping
The mainly dry winter conditions which keep rivers and streams levels low now starts to change dramatically. Rain or warm weather will bring down snow melt, particularly in the afternoons. Safety on River crossings is a major concern. Rivers can rise to a point where crossings that were safe in the morning are dangerous in the afternoon. Main tracks will have bridges on most of the major rivers but even small side streams can be an obstacle with any extended rain. Check with DOC to find out track and hut conditions.
October
Ahh, October, snow skiing in the morning, waterskiing in the afternoon. This is the swan song for the ski areas which all close by the end of the month. Interestingly they close not because of lack of snow but because of lack of skiers, people start doing other things once the weather warms. It is a pity since it is a great time to be in the mountains. How much snow is there? Have a look.
Climbing and Mountaineering
The high mountains start to come to life with adventure seekers looking for action. Ski touring is still the main activity, but as the warm temperatures increasingly stabilize the snowpack, climbers start to take advantage of the easy access.
Crevasses are still well covered making route finding much easier. Practice good glacier travel skills and rope up for all the travel that is practical, you don't fall into the crevasse that you see. Wet snow avalanches are a hazard every sunny afternoon so get an early start, 3:00am or even earlier is common.
Trekking
The high passes are still buried deep in snow so routes will be confined to valley floors unless you are skilled with an ice axe and crampons. Warmer temperatures mean that it is usually comfortable even on wet days. The tracks are still empty this time of year. It can be a good time to do one of the Great Walks that are ordinarily busy. Again, beware river crossings.
November
Like an unruly teenager, you don't know what to expect. November storm tells the story of a two day weather event, 48 hrs of cold and wind then beautiful sunshine. This is the Northern hemisphere May. Like spring everywhere this is a time when outdoor activities are on everyone's mind. While it is still early for the mountain flowers, in town the spring growth and the sight of lambs everywhere makes this a special time of year. While spring usually accounts for the majority of the seasonal rainfall, it is usually confined to isolated storms, not continuous days of rain.
Climbing and Mountaineering
Finally the snow has settled enough that skis are usually not required for glacier travel. Clear overnight skies are usually required to have a good solid freeze and the glacial snow is still soft in the afternoons making climbing hazardous and travel difficult. Make sure you have good gaiters for afternoon post holing. Your progress will be slow once the snow begins to thaw so try to get as much climbing done in the early morning darkness as possible.
Trekking
The tracks are slowly coming out of their winter slumber with facilities starting to open up - hut wardens are returning to work on the popular tracks and tracks get cleared of winter debris. While tracks with passes like Cascade Saddle (1600m) or Rees Saddle (1470m) are not recommended until the end of the month, weather and avalanche hazard depending, lower passes such as Harris Saddle (1255) on the Routeburn are usually fine. Again, watch for heavy rain and afternoon river levels.
December
The variable spring weather continues through December but temperatures are now warm enough that even wet and cloudy weather is still comfortable. School holidays begin December 20th and accommodation needs to be pre-booked anytime from then until after the first week in January. On tracks that do not require pre-booking huts are often full and it pays to have a small tent along. In either high mountain huts of walking tracks do not rely on tents if heavy rain is forecast, make sure hard shelter is nearby.
Climbing and Mountaineering
December to March is the prime alpine climbing season. The spring weather in December is still fickle, strong westerly winds alternate with fine spells. It is important to time your climbing trips to coincide with the good weather. If you wait until the weather is perfect before you go into the mountains you will often be "just in time to be to late". Good weather often comes in cycles of 2-3 days - keep a careful watch of the weather forecasts and be in position for the first day to climb. Mount Aspiring conditions are usually on until late April. Conditions on Mt Cook can deteriorate rapidly and may end as early as late December or mid January.
Trekking
The long days are a luxury after the cold winter. It is possible to take your time and enjoy the long twilight evening and those early starts are not so bad when it is light out. It is a long day for the sand flies too so be sure to have a good tent if you sleep out, once it gets light (5:30am) the sand flies seem to wake up hungry. Check with DOC but usually all the passes are clear of snow by the end of the month. For a spectacular display of Mount Cook Lilies try the head of the West Matukituki Valley.