Takiroa
Mount Sefton
A wilderness climb from sea level to summit
Explore Aoraki Mount Cook Summer Adventures Climb Alpine AscentsMount Sefton
Mount Sefton
A wilderness climb from sea level to summit
Mount Sefton is a stunning peak which towers high over Mount Cook Village and according to Maori legend is the guardian of Aoraki (Mount Cook). The isolated 3151m peak is one of New Zealand's premier wilderness climbs, and an excellent opportunity to climb an iconic 3000m peak entirely from sea level to summit!
Welcome Flats Hut
Welcome Flats Hut is a public hut situated in the Copland Valley. A highlight of staying there includes a soak in the natural hot springs. Bookings are required.
Equipment:
Participants must carry their own sleeping bags, personal gear and some of the group equipment, food, stove, fuel, and cooking utensils (all provided by us).
Bivvy
Spend one or more nights camping under the stars.
Equipment:
Participants must carry their own sleeping bags, sleeping mats, bivvy bag (or lightweight tent), personal gear and some of the group equipment, food, stove, fuel, and cooking utensils (all provided by us).
We recommend settling guiding dates well in advance since peak season times are often booked up. Please allow extra time in case you are held up in the mountains due to weather.
| Dates | Spaces |
|---|---|
| 10 - 15 November 2025 | private groupN/A |
| Updated: 3 March 2025 at 11:00 pm | |
Private bookings
Private guide: book a guide just for you and benefit from a completely custom itinerary.
Loyalty discount: If you have been on an Alpine Recreation trip before, you will be eligible for $100 off the standard trip price (does not apply to any already discounted prices).
| Private Guide Price | 5 days price per person | 6 days price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Private booking group size | NZ$6520 1 per guide | NZ$8870 1 per guide |
Deposit Payment
A non-refundable per-person deposit is payable to secure a booking:
- NZ$1,500.00
The remaining balance of the trip price (including any applicable discounts) is due 60 days prior to departure. If you are booking within 60 days of the trip start, the full amount will be due.
Booking conditionsInclusions & Exclusions
All prices include the following:
- IFMGA / NZMGA certified mountain guide
- National Park fees
- Hut accommodation
- Local accommodation for any nights required during the trip
- Ground transport (Tekapo - Fox Glacier return)
- ALL meals (including snacks & energy bars) for the duration of the trip
- ALL technical mountaineering equipment (with the exception of boots)
The following items are NOT included:
- Meals and accommodation before/after the trip are NOT included.
- Flights are NOT included
Aircraft Access - not included
Aircraft access is only required for the 5 day "alpine" option. Chances of success are increased by flying in, because you can take immediate advantage of a fine weather day for a summit attempt (if you walk in you will need several fine weather days in a row).
Flying in to the Horace Walker Glacier allows you to maximise your time in the mountains. Flights are not included in the price, as costs vary according to aircraft occupancy. It is often possible to combine flights with other groups heading in to and out of the mountains to significantly reduce flight costs.
Weather dependent: As there is no guarantee of being able to fly (due to weather) and no obligation to fly, we like to be able to pass on any potential savings directly to our guests.
| Price per flight (the cost is split equally amongst guests) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | Aircraft | Spaces | Price |
| Mt. Cook Airport to / from Horace Walker Glacier | Helicopter | 5 | NZ$1,284.00 |
Please note: Flight prices are given as examples only and are subject to change by aircraft operators at any time. In addition to guests, each aircraft will also transport the guide and gear.
Previous Experience
Previous Experience:
Previous mountaineering experience in snow and ice is required. We strongly recommend to participate in one of our Intensive Mountaineering Skills Courses prior to a Mount Sefton climb.
Fitness:
Participants for the "Alpine" option need to be:
- very fit, and used to back-to-back days in an alpine environment
- well coordinated and have the ability to learn new skills quickly
- mentally strong and well balanced to cope with height exposure
In addition, participants for the "Wilderness" option need to be:
- exceptionally fit, and used to carrying heavy packs for several days
- physically and psychologically able to deal with an extreme environment and very challenging terrain
While not technically very difficult, long distances need to be travelled with heavy packs over very steep and rough ground. Climbing the "Wilderness" option of Mount Sefton involves two open bivouacs at the snow line. Participants need to be exceptionally fit. Climbing days involve 14 or more hours of climbing. Please submit list of previous outdoor experience and schedule of personal fitness training.
Difficulty Ratings
Endurance: 4 - Very challenging
A high level of fitness is expected. Fit people will still need to train prior to undertaking this adventure. Ascents of 1200+ vertical metres are likely. Expect 10-12 hour days or longer, carrying a 10-12kg backpack. Early alpine starts may be required. Expect some discomfort due to long days and exposure to elements. Must be dedicated and used to long days in rough, untracked terrain.
Agility: 5 - Expert scrambling/climbing agility
A high level of commitment required with serious consequences for mistakes. Frequent and sustained exposure to significant heights or large drops. Moderate - steeper (30-50°) slopes common. Concentration and focus required at all times. Recent mountaineering experience required. Solid footwork, cramponing (including front-pointing) and ice axe skills expected.
Technical Mountaineering: 3 - Experienced mountaineer
Proficiency with technical rope skills and a basic understanding of rescue systems required. Comfortable crossing moderate-steeper snow slopes (30-50°) with ice axe and crampons. Experience climbing with 1 and 2 ice tools, front-pointing and 10-point cramponing technique in various snow/ice conditions. Competency climbing on rock (AU grade 12-15).
Trip Difficulty Ratings - more infoConditions change significantly during the season. In late summer the Douglas Nevé can pose problems with crevasses. The northern facing slopes of the Tekano Glacier are avalanche prone in warm temperatures/lack of freeze. In winter the route is not recommended due to a high avalanche risk. Best time is from mid November through to mid February.
Route Information
This option is great for mountaineers with limited time, or those who would like to spend more time in the high-alpine without the challenging multi-day ascent through West Coast bush, scrub and river beds. This is the recommended option for photographers!
| Gear Check | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 pm | 8:00 am | 5:00 pm |
Drive to airport
After meeting your guide at our office, your gear will be checked. It is then a 1.5 hour drive to Mount Cook Airport or (if you are opting to walk out the Copland Valley) a 6 hour drive to Fox Glacier.
Airport to snow camp
We fly in to the Horace Walker Glacier and establish our camp. If time permits, we'll go for an explore across the glacier and practice some skills in preparation for our summit attempt.
Snow camp to summit
From the Horace Walker Glacier we follow the Sierra Range along to Welcome Pass and continue across the Douglas Nevé. We cross the glacier (which may be heavily crevassed later in the season) and climb 4-8 pitches of ice up to the cleft summit. With around 1000m of vertical ascent, we have a bit more time to enjoy the views over the West Coast, across to Aoraki Mount Cook and down the other side to Mount Cook Village.
Descent
After a second night snow camping, we have the option to either spend an additional day exploring the area before flying back to Mount Cook Village directly, or descending via Scott's Creek and the Copland Valley (please see the "Wilderness" option below).
Route Information
This option is only suitable for mountaineers with extensive multi-day tramping/off-track bush experience. Heavy loads need to be carried across very challenging terrain to get to the snow line - this is often the hardest part of the expedition. If you're not sure your physical (and mental!) fitness, endurance and agility are up to this, then choose the "Alpine" option.
| Gear Check | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 pm | 8:00 am | 5:00 pm |
Drive to the West Coast
After meeting at our office, your guide will check your equipment, before driving 6 hours to the start of the track. It may be an option for you to meet your guide in Wanaka.
Copland Valley to Welcome Flat Hut
A 6 hour trek up the Copland Valley takes you to Welcome Flat Hut with its world-famous thermal springs. We have heavy packs for the walk in, but can enjoy a nice soak in the hot pools!
Welcome Flat Hut to alpine bivvy
8-10 hours of steep climbing takes you up Scott Creek, a narrow valley, past numerous waterfalls and house-sized boulders. Depending on the river levels and avalanche conditions, an alternative bush track may be used. This is a truly awe-inspiring and intimidating place. Your guide's local knowledge is essential to find a safe way through the wilderness. We camp at the snow line.
Alpine bivvy to summit
We have a big day ahead of us with 1500-1700m of ascent (depending on where we bivvy). We gain the ridge above Scott's Creek and cross the Tekano Glacier. Following steepening snow slopes we reach Welcome Pass and the Douglas Nevé. We cross the glacier (which may be heavily crevassed later in the season) and climb 4-8 pitches of ice up to the cleft summit. Climbing this awe-inspiring mountain all the way from sea level completely self-sufficiently is a very satisfying experience!
Descent
We return the same way, with a second bivvy at the snow line, before descending back to the Copland Valley. An overnight stop at Welcome Flats with its hot pools is a welcome finish to a great climb!
Mount Sefton - Clothing & Equipment Checklist
Your gear check time will be provided at time of booking. Please bring as many of the items on the equipment list as you can. We can provide (at no extra charge), any of the items in list A that you are missing. Reminder: all food is provided.
All technical mountaineering equipment (crampons, ice axe, helmet, etc.) is provided.
*1 Grade B3 Mountaineering Boots: an insulated rigid leather boot as per the Mountain Boot & Crampon Guide, eg. La Sportiva Nepal Evo or Scarpa Summit GTX. Boots must be well broken-in and waterproofed. While we recommend that you invest in your own boots for technical ascents, you can hire boots from: Gnomes Alpine Sports, Darfield; Small Planet Sports, Queenstown; or MT Outdoors, Wanaka. Book any hire equipment well in advance.
*2 Blister kit: we recommend Compeed and Leukoplast - available at chemists in Christchurch, Queenstown and Wanaka.
A. Equipment which Alpine Recreation can provide if you do not have your own:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| avalanche safety equipment transceiver, shovel, probe | 1 |
| backpack - 45L must have side tension straps | 1 |
| buff / sun scarf for protecting ears & neck | 1 |
| eating utensils mug, bowl, spoon | 1 |
| gaiters to fit over trekking / mountaineering boots | 1 |
| high lumen headlamp with spare battery | 1 |
| mountaineering equipment helmet, ice axe, crampons, harness, carabiners, slings, prussics | 1 |
| polypro / merino thermal leggings | 2 |
| polypro / merino top long-sleeved | 2 |
| sun hat | 1 |
| synthetic / fleece jacket | 1 |
| warm gloves / mittens | 1 |
| waterproof gloves / mitts with removable inner for quick drying | 1 |
| waterproof hard-shell pants full-length zip | 1 |
| waterproof pack liner to keep your gear dry | 1 |
| waterproof parka must have a hood | 1 |
| wool hat / balaclava | 1 |
| woollen socks | 2 |
B. Equipment you must bring yourself/Alpine Recreation do not provide:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 4 season sleeping bag lightweight | 1 |
| camera | 1 |
| down jacket | 1 |
| drink bottle wide-mouth, minimum 1.5 litres | 1 |
| ear plugs in case of snorers | 1 |
| lightweight insulated sleeping mat if not going to a hut | 1 |
| personal first aid please provide your own blister kit | 1 |
| personal underwear | 1 |
| quick-drying shirt long-sleeved, for sun protection | 1 |
| quick-drying trekking pants / shorts | 1 |
| small dry bags for organising gear | 1 |
| snow goggles | 1 |
| sun and lip screen high UV rating for snow | 1 |
| sun glasses high UV rating for snow | 1 |
| technical mountaineering boots Grade B3 Mountaineering Boots | 1 |
| toiletries please keep these to a minimum | 1 |
How do I make a booking?
Simply click on Book Your Adventure, fill out the enrolment form, and pay your deposit fee. Once you have submitted your completed enrolment form and we have received your deposit payment, we will confirm your reservation on the trip. You will receive a formal confirmation receipt by email.
When is the gear check?
All trips start with a gear check at Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo. For your specific trip gear check and start times, please refer to the Itinerary section of the relevant product page.
What mountaineering equipment do I need to bring?
Please refer to the clothing and equipment checklist in the Equipment section. Any technical equipment you need to borrow (including ice tools, crampons, harness, helmet, etc.) is provided FREE OF CHARGE and will be issued by your guide at the gear check. Please note that we can only provide boots for less technical objectives and recommend you bring your own.
Do I need travel insurance?
In the case of an accident, New Zealand's Accident Compensation scheme (ACC) will cover the majority of costs (about 80%) involved with evacuation and injury treatment, even for visitors to New Zealand. However, we strongly recommend taking out travel insurance, as you still need cover for things such as cancellation if an injury prevents you taking part on the trip, or a close relative suddenly becomes ill; and medical insurance in case you become ill. Many standard travel insurance policies DO NOT cover high-risk adventure activities so be sure to check the wording of your policy.
More information on New Zealand's Accident Compensation scheme (ACC).
Recommended insurance providers:
→ New Zealand Alpine Club provides mountaineering specific insurance options for New Zealand or Australian residents.
→ Austrian Alpine Club provides world-wide rescue and repatriation insurance to members.
→ World Nomads provides travel insurance for guided adventure activities.
→ Insure4less provides cover for a selection of high-risk activities for Australian residents.
How do I get to/from Lake Tekapo?
The easiest way to get to Lake Tekapo is to catch the bus from Christchurch or Queenstown, or hire a rental car. Most buses arrive in Tekapo around midday.
→ Lake Tekapo Transport recommendations.
Where is the best place to stay in Lake Tekapo before/after my trip?
Alpine Recreation provides accommodation at Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo. This is also where your gear check takes place before departure. It is recommended you book the nights before and after your trip here to facilitate the gear check and to allow flexibility in case of any delay in trip start due to weather. To book your nights, simply answer the relevant questions on your trip booking form.
→ Other Lake Tekapo Accommodation recommendations. We strongly recommend that you book your accommodation well in advance, as Tekapo is a popular tourist destination and options become limited during peak season.
Where can I park my car?
Secure off-street parking is available by Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge. Please leave your car keys with us (in case we have to move your vehicle if someone is parked in and so you don't lose your keys on the mountain!).
What do I do with my spare gear while on the trip?
We have a gear storage room at Edelweiss Lodge for you to leave any spare bags or gear while you are on your trip.
