30 Dec 2025

❄️ Sealy Range Traverse ❄️

Three unforgettable days back in full winter mode — in December. Over half a metre of cold, fresh snow transformed the Sealy Range, with plenty of steps to plug and more than a few moments wishing we were on skis instead of boots.

We climbed high toward Mt Sealy, turning back just short of the summit due to a lack of solid snow for anchors — a good reminder that judgement matters more than summits. Clouds poured dramatically over Mount Sefton on the Main Divide, putting on a show that never got old.

Two cold, crisp nights camped on the Annette Plateau, stars blazing and the Milky Way stretched overhead. We completed the loop with an early-morning exit down Sawyers Stream before the heat arrived, followed by a long, careful scramble down Sebastopol Ridge.

From start to finish, the scenery was next-level — even more spectacular under a fresh blanket of snow. True alpine magic. 🏔️✨

📸 @elke_mountain_guide @symphonyonskis

🔗 https://alpinerecreation.com/new-zealand-alpine-hikes-trekking-and-snowshoeing/trans-alpine-crossings-and-traverses/sealy-range-traverse

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