Accessible bounty for nature lovers

This trip will take you to a rolling, tussock covered peneplain which is the most easily reached of all Kahurangi’s secret gems. This “Island in the sky” is fringed by mountain ranges and deep valleys, and features magical limestone formations and mossy forests (Elves and Hobbits have been seen!). Also, there are caves, gold mining history, an alpine lake and diverse flora and fauna to be discovered.

The trip has many variations. To get a good taste of the region, you can choose from 2 to 6 days. This trip can also be combined with the Mount Arthur or Upper Cobb Valley walks. You can state how many days, and we will plan the trip to suit you.There are many off track places to be shown by guides who know the area's secrets.

This walk starts in the upper Graham Valley south of Motueka, and ends in the Cobb Valley in Golden Bay. The first section is an old 4X4 track, and is mainly flat going for the first 8 kilometres.

This section follows the Flora stream amidst typical South Island Beech forest, and along the way we can show you the ‘Friends of Flora’ conservation project. The track then climbs steadily to emerge onto the Tablelands, a vast alpine tussock plateau that offers you magnificent views of the Arthur Range, and a wonderful variety of alpine flora.

This hike offers history, unique flora, bird-life and breathtaking scenery. Bird sightings may include kea, kaka, bellbird, tomtit, robin, kakariki and rifleman among others.

The first night is spent at the Salisbury Lodge. From here the possibilities are endless, it depends on how many days you wish to explore this area. It is only 1½ hours to the next hut, but we will take all day getting there – mostly without the burden of a pack on your back. On the final day we pass beautiful alpine Lake Peel, and climb Mount Peel. This is a gentle scree ridge, with a wonderful abundance of flowers during alpine flowering time – mid December to mid February.

Trip facts

2 to 6 days
Fitness level: Average
Prices per person, including all food, cottage fees and transfers:

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