A Unique Flora. We have a unique alpine flora with some interesting characteristics:
- Very high proportion are only found in New Zealand – 93% of alpine species are endemic
- Relatively few genera but of those present, some have a large number of species (Aciphylla, Celmisia, Epilobium, Hebe and Rananuculus each have more than 35 species).
- Only 10 genera endemic to New Zealand – and most of these are not common or significant in terms of plant cover.
- The flowers are not colorful – predominantly white with some creams and yellows.
- Many have strong scents - although weather conditions preclude appreciation of this.
- The flowering season is brief – there is a rush to set flower and pollinate.
We will visit some special locations that will heighten an appreciation of our alpine flora.
Pick up details. I will be in Christchurch by 10.00 am to first pick up locals. I will then pick up from the airport and aim to be away from Christchurch by 11.00 am. Travel to Mt Hutt via Rakaia Gorge. Lunch at Awa Awa Rata Reserve at the foot of Mt Hutt (Marita will make the lunch). The itinerary is not set in concrete. We need some flexibility to allow for weather – but we will be staying each night at the named locations.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1, Thursday, 15 January:
Leave Christchurch, travel via Rakaia Gorge to Awa Awa Rata Reserve at foot of Mt Hutt. Lunch. Travel up Mt Hutt Road with stops at Scotts Saddle, Rakaia and Zed Saddles. We may travel on to the ski field car park.
Day 2, Friday 16, January:
Today we head into the newly opened Hakatere Conservation Park. We will be looking for some interesting and in some cases rare sub alpine plants (as well as enjoying outstanding scenery) on braided riverbeds, tussock grasslands and kettle hole wetlands.
Day 4, Sunday 18, January:
Our second day in Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park. The main activity this day will be a walk up the Hooker Valley – a highlight of a visit to the park. Second night at Glentanner.
Day 5, Monday 19, January:
Pack up after breakfast and leave Glentanner. I plan to visit Mt Dobson Conservation Area on our way back arriving at lunchtime. Spend a few hours there and then return to Staveley, arriving at 5.30 pm.
Day 6, Tuesday, 20 January:
We will leave Staveley after breakfast. This will be our final good bye to Marita – and Staveley – so all gear will have to be packed and loaded in the coach. We will travel via Lake Lyndon and Dry Stream. We will arrive at Arthurs Pas for a late lunch. The afternoon will be spent in the upper Otira Valley. Dinner at Arthurs Pass.
Day 7, Wednesday, 21 January:
We leave Arthurs Pass after breakfast and travel to Castle Hill reserve that we will explore. After lunch we move onto Porters Pass and we will walk up Foggy Peak (not to the top!!) for our last botanizing. Arrive back in Christchurch by 5.00 pm.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- All accommodation,
- Transport and most meals are included.
Also see tour packages in:
Australia and Oceania
New Zealand
Nature & Wildlife
Ecotourism
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