Cass Valley
Haute Route
A remote hut-to-hut ski traverse of the Gamack Range
Winter Adventures Ski Cass Valley Glacier Touring & Ski Mountaineering Ski Traverses & ExpeditionsCass Valley Haute Route
Cass Valley Haute Route
A remote hut-to-hut ski traverse of the Gamack Range
The Cass Valley Haute Route offers a spectacular ski traverse through some of New Zealand’s most remote and untouched backcountry terrain. Linking Lady Emily Hut, Falcon's Nest and O'Leary's Hut via high alpine basins and ridge-lines, this multi-day ski touring adventure showcases the rugged beauty of the Cass Valley and the wild heart of the Southern Alps.
This hut-to-hut traverse is ideal for experienced backcountry skiers or splitboarders looking for a genuine adventure away from the crowds. You’ll travel through the headwaters of hidden basins, and over high alpine passes. With exclusive access to Glenmore Station’s private mountain huts and our expert local guides, this is a ski traverse like no other — remote, rugged, and refreshingly uncrowded.
Why Choose This Trip?
If you’re after a classic New Zealand ski traverse with remote access, cosy private huts, and knowledgeable local guides — the Cass Valley Haute Route delivers. It’s a rare chance to move through a truly wild landscape, all under your own power.
A Classic New Zealand Ski Traverse
Embark on a spectacular multi-day journey through the remote and rugged Cass Valley — New Zealand’s very own haute route. This hut-to-hut ski traverse links Glenmore Station's private backcountry huts, crossing the Gamack Range via high alpine passes, glaciated basins, and rugged ridge-lines.
Whether you're chasing powder turns, stunning scenery, or the challenge of a self-powered backcountry adventure, the Cass Valley Haute Route offers:
A true wilderness experience — no crowds, no lift queues, just pristine Southern Alps terrain
Private hut-to-hut travel, with exclusive access to heated mountain huts
Incredible views of the Cass Valley, Mt William Grant, and the Southern Alps
Challenging and rewarding terrain for experienced ski tourers and split-boarders
4WD access into the Cass Valley is part of the adventure
Expert guiding and logistics, so you can focus on the adventure
Small group sizes for safety, flexibility, and a personal experience
- Ski touring, avalanche, and mountaineering equipment included FREE of charge
This is a traverse for experienced ski tourers or splitboarders ready to step into the untamed backcountry — where every turn is earned, and every moment unforgettable.
Lady Emily Hut
Lady Emily Hut sits at an altitude of 1500m in the Gamack Range, overlooking the upper Cass Valley. Located in a beautiful setting, with great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a fantastic location for star gazing - the Mackenzie District is renowned for the clarity of its sky and freedom from light pollution, which is why the area was recently designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve.
Warm, cosy & modern
Lady Emily Hut is privately owned and was built by Glenmore Station. It is an ideal base for backcountry adventures, overnight alpine hikes, hut to hut treks and ski & split-board touring. Equipped with firewood, gas, bunks, pillows and mattresses. A wood-fired stove means there are good heating and drying facilities. Alpine Recreation has stocked the hut with sleeping bags for each bunk. This will keep the pack volume and weight down for walk-in / ski-in trips.
Facilities
Lady Emily consists of two rooms, one room sleeping up to 4 and a second sleeping 6. There are no showers and the toilet is a traditional longdrop loo.
Access
Provided the 4WD access to Memorial Hut is possible, this is the easiest of the Glenmore Station huts to walk to, but furthest to 4WD drive to and will be the first to be cut-off by high river levels, snow or flooding. The inital 200m climb is steep, but then eases once you reach the alpine meadows at around 1300m. Expanding views over the upper Cass Valley and Ailsa Stream provide a welcome excuse to take a break and soak in your surroundings. The access to "Bad Decision" (Whiskey Hut) is probably the easiest as well with approx. 3.5 km distance and 600m of climbing.
Falcon's Nest Hut
Falcon's Nest sits at an altitude of 1500m in the Gamack Range, tucked into the fork of Upper Tin Hut Stream. Located in a beautiful setting, with great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a fantastic location for star gazing - the Mackenzie District is renowned for the clarity of its sky and freedom from light pollution, which is why the area was recently designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve.
Warm, cosy & modern
Falcon's Nest Hut is privately owned and was built by Glenmore Station. It is an ideal base for backcountry adventures, overnight alpine hikes, hut to hut treks and ski & split-board touring. Equipped with firewood, gas, bunks, pillows and mattresses. A wood-fired stove means there are good heating and drying facilities. Alpine Recreation has stocked the hut with sleeping bags for each bunk. This will keep the pack volume and weight down for walk-in / ski-in trips.
Facilities
Falcon's Nest Hut consists of 1 large room with 8 bunks and a log burner. There are no showers and the toilet is a traditional longdrop loo.
Access
4WD access to Tin Hut is possible in most conditions. Walking access is then up the Tin Hut Stream valley. An initially steep 100m climb eases to follow Tin Hut Stream to its upper fork, where Falcon's Nest Hut sits nestled in pristine alpine meadows. Access to "Bad Decision" (Whiskey Hut) is via the northern branch of Upper Tin Hut Stream (approx. 700m climbing over 3.5km distance).
O'Leary's Hut
O'Leary's Hut sits at 1700m, overlooking Waterfall Stream. Located in a beautiful setting, with great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a fantastic location for star gazing - the Mackenzie District is renowned for the clarity of its sky and freedom from light pollution, which is why the area was recently designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve.
Warm, cosy & modern
O'Leary's Hut is privately owned and was built by Glenmore Station. It is an ideal base for backcountry adventures, overnight alpine hikes, hut to hut treks and ski & split-board touring. Equipped with firewood, gas, bunks, pillows and mattresses. A wood-fired stove means there are good heating and drying facilities. Alpine Recreation has stocked the hut with sleeping bags for each bunk. This will keep the pack volume and weight down for walk-in / ski-in trips.
Facilities
O'Leary's Hut consists of 1 large room with 8 bunks and a log burner. There are no showers and the toilet is a traditional longdrop loo.
Hot tub
O'Leary's Hut has a hot tub! Installed in autumn 2024, the wood-fired tub is fed by an alpine spring and is the perfect spot to relax after your day's adventures. What better place to enjoy star-gazing?!
Access
4WD access to Waterfall Hut is the most reliable and almost always possible, or only requires a short walk from the vehicle. It is then a very steep 300m hike up into the broader Waterfall Valley. From here the easiest route is to continue up the mostly gentle valley along the stream to O'Leary's Hut at 1700m.
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 |
|---|---|
| 15 - 19 Sep 2025 | 6 |
| Updated: 16 July 2025 at 12:54 pm | |
Standard bookings
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).
| Standard Price | 5 days price per person | 6 days price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Individual bookings group size | NZ$3300 2 - 4 per guide * | NZ$3799 2 - 4 per guide * |
Please read the information on minimum and maximum group sizes below.
Group discounts: get a group of family and friends together and book as a group. The amount of discount you will be eligible for, will depend on the group size - the more people you book, the more your discount will be. If our scheduled dates don't suit your group's travel plans, please contact us so we can reschedule a trip to suit (subject to guide availability).
Please note that group bookings are not private bookings - if you wish to keep your group closed and have a private guide just for your group, a surcharge will apply.
| Group Discounts | 5 days price per person | 6 days price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Group booking of 3 | NZ$3,135.00 2 - 4 per guide | NZ$3,610.00 2 - 4 per guide |
| Group booking of 4 | NZ$2,970.00 2 - 4 per guide | NZ$3,420.00 2 - 4 per guide |
| Group booking of 5 | NZ$3,205.00 2 - 4 per guide | NZ$3,685.00 2 - 4 per guide |
| Group booking of 6 | NZ$3,135.00 2 - 4 per guide | NZ$3,610.00 2 - 4 per guide |
| Group booking of 7 | NZ$3,040.00 2 - 4 per guide | NZ$3,495.00 2 - 4 per guide |
| Group booking of 8 | NZ$2,970.00 2 - 4 per guide | NZ$3,420.00 2 - 4 per guide |
Deposit Payment
A non-refundable per-person deposit is payable to secure a booking:
- NZ$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 ski / split-board guide
- Department of Conservation licence fees
- Heated PRIVATE hut accommodation
- Local accommodation for any nights required during the trip
- 4WD transport (Tekapo - Cass Valley return)
- ALL meals (including snacks & energy bars) for the duration of the trip
- ALL avalanche safety and technical ski touring equipment (with the exception of ski touring boots)
The following items are NOT included:
- Meals and accommodation before / after the trip are NOT included.
Minimum & Maximum Group Size
A minimum number of 2 participants is required to run this trip. If you end up being the only person booked on the trip, you will be offered the choice of:
- paying an additional fee to run the trip at a reduced guide-to-guest ratio
( NZ$2,080.00 for 5 days, NZ$2,555.00 for 6 days ) - rescheduling to another trip/date
- a full refund
A maximum number of 4 participants per guide is defined by our safety management plan. For groups larger than this, it is usually possible to allocate additional guides.
Difficulty Ratings
Endurance: 3.5 - Challenging +
A solid level of fitness with aerobic training prior to the trip is expected. Ability to carry moderate to heavy backpacks (8-10kg) for 6-9 hours if required. Expect ascents of 800-1200 vertical meters. Some discomfort expected due to long days and exposure to elements. Prior multi-day hiking/trekking/tramping trips through rough untracked terrain are recommended.
Agility: 3 - Moderate scrambling agility
Scrambling over rough ground with hand placement needed (eg. pulling yourself up on vegetation, clambering over boulders). Good foot placement required across a variety of terrain, including steep grass, alpine scrub, scree, boulder-fields and snow. Must be competent and efficient at moving over uneven and untracked terrain carrying a moderate backpack. Sections of steep and/or exposed terrain at times. May involve crossing snow slopes and/or glaciers, requiring the use of crampons and ice axe if conditions are firm.
Technical Ski Ability: 4 - Advanced ski tourer / split-boarder
Skis the fall-line on most slopes and in most conditions, although windblown crust and heavy snow may be a challenge. Confident and controlled skiing on steep slopes up to 40°. Uses appropriate techniques to ski couloirs or restricted slopes safely and at a reasonable speed. Able to do longer ascents with fewer rests, at speeds of 400m+ per hour. Uphill kick-turns are straight-forward unless it's firm and icy. Has modern, lightweight gear and uses it regularly.
Trip Difficulty Ratings - more infoPrevious Experience
The Cass Valley is remote, wild, and offers big terrain — the hut-to-hut haute route is for experienced ski tourers and split-boarders ready to put in the effort for incredible rewards.
Skiing or Riding Ability
- You must be an advanced to expert skier or snowboarder
- Confident making controlled turns in variable backcountry snow (wind crust, breakable crust, powder, sastrugi)
- Capable of descending 35–40° slopes with a multi-day pack
- Prior experience with ski touring or split-boarding is essential — including the use of avalanche rescue equipment, skins, uphill travel, kick-turning, and transitions
If you're unsure whether you're ready, reach out — we’re happy to help assess your skills and fitness for the Cass Valley Haute Route. An easier option is to start with our Cass Valley Ski & Split-board Tours, or if you're new to ski touring or split-boarding, we recommend our Backcountry Ski & Split-board Course.
Recommended Fitness Training
The Cass Valley is serious backcountry — long days, big climbs, variable snow, and no easy exit. To enjoy it and stay safe, you’ll need to be physically well-prepared. The better your fitness, the more you'll get out of the experience.
1. Build Strong Aerobic Endurance
Cass Valley ski tours often involve 1,000–1,400 metres of vertical gain per day in remote alpine terrain. Your training should reflect that. Aim for:
- 4–5 cardio sessions per week
- Mix long, low-intensity sessions (2–4 hours hiking, trail running, cycling) with some interval training
- Train on hills or stairs to build climbing capacity
- Try to include at least one long session with a weighted pack each week
2. Strengthen Legs & Core for Long Ascents and Technical Descents
You’ll be climbing with skins and descending in mixed snow while carrying a pack. Strong legs and core muscles help prevent fatigue and injury. Key Exercises:
- Weighted step-ups, squats, lunges
- Glute bridges, planks, Russian twists
- Uphill hiking with a loaded pack (start light and gradually increase to ~12 kg)
3. Prepare for Multi-Day Load & Recovery
You’ll be touring several days in a row with limited rest and sleeping in a backcountry hut. Training Ideas:
- Back-to-back training days (e.g. long hike Saturday + weighted stair session Sunday)
- Simulate fatigue with long weekend efforts and quick recovery turnarounds
- Include some cold-weather hiking or alpine trips to adapt to real conditions
4. Practice With Your Gear (If Possible)
Touring technique and gear efficiency are just as important as raw fitness. If you have access to snow:
- Practice transitions, kick turns, skinning and using touring bindings
- Train with your actual boots and pack to break them in and fine-tune fit
5. Focus on Recovery & Mobility
Mobility work and recovery are crucial to staying injury-free during multi-day alpine trips.
- Stretch regularly (especially hamstrings, quads, calves, and hips)
- Include foam rolling or yoga 1–2 times a week
- Sleep and nutrition during training are as important as the workouts themselves
Start training at least 8–10 weeks out, and you’ll show up fit, focused, and ready for the challenge of the Cass Valley.
| Gear Check | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 pm | 8:00 am | 5:00 pm |
Pre-trip Evening – Gear Check & Briefing
The evening before departure, we meet at Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, for a full gear check, ensuring everyone is properly outfitted for backcountry travel and winter conditions. This is also an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow participants, discuss the trip plan, and review safety protocols, packing tips, and logistics for the days ahead.
You need to bring your own alpine touring boots (or split-boarding setup if you're a snowboarder), but otherwise we can provide all other equipment. Please see the equipment section for details.
You'll be carrying a moderate to heavy pack, including personal gear and group food. Cooking equipment & sleeping bags are at the huts.
Hike / Ski to Lady Emily Hut
Meet at Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo at the above start time. Depart for the iconic high country Glenmore Station on the western shores of Lake Tekapo in one of our 4WD vehicles and enjoy a scenic 2 hour 4WD adventure up the Cass Valley to Memorial Hut.
From Memorial Hut at 1070m elevation, cross Ailsa Stream, then climb 200m up a steep tussock slope to gain alpine meadows and a medial moraine rib which brings you to Lady Emily Hut. Expanding views over the upper Cass Valley and Ailsa Stream provide a welcome excuse to take a break and soak in your surroundings.
Relax with a hot (or cold!) beverage beside the wood stove as your guide prepares a tasty dinner. Watch the stars come out and listen to your guide tell a local Mackenzie legend.
3-4 hours hiking in tussocky alpine terrain, skinning once you get to the snow-line.
Ski traverse between Lady Emily and Falcon's Nest Hut
From Lady Emily Hut, we ascend into the upper basins, climbing steadily towards the head of the valley. The route passes the cheekily named “Bad Decision” whiskey hut — a rustic emergency shelter tucked beneath the ridge, perfect for a quick break or an impromptu toast to the mountains. From here, we enjoy skiing laps in the hanging basins before an exhilarating descent down into North Tin Hut Stream to Falcon's Nest Hut.
Depending on weather, conditions, and group energy, we can take a direct route to Falcon’s Nest Hut or opt for a longer, more adventurous line via the Scorpion Glacier — a stunning glaciated amphitheatre offering big turns and dramatic scenery. Either way, we arrive at Falcon’s Nest in the afternoon, ready to relax and refuel in the comfort of our remote high alpine hut.
This traverse can be done in either direction – you'll be swapping huts with another group touring in the opposite direction.
Spare Days - Ski Tours from the Hut
Lady Emily and Falcon's Nest Huts are great bases for day tours, with a variety of tour options available, depending on your energy levels – climb the peaks and ridges nearby, and enjoy great views of the Southern Alps from the upper ridges.
Your guides will choose the best day and manage the logistics for the crossing to the next hut (you'll be switching huts with another group).
Last Day – Ski / Hike out from Falcon's Nest
Short morning ski tour then return to Lake Tekapo via a ski / walk down to Tin Hut and 4WD out the Cass Valley, arriving back around 5-6pm.
The descent down Tin Hut Stream is a rocky river bed, followed by a descent down a steep tussock slope – this can be awkward in ski boots, so you may wish to take approach shoes for this.
3-4 hours hiking.
Please note that the huts in the valley (Memorial, Tin and Waterfall Huts) provide extra safety in case of impassable river crossing. All huts are equipped with a fire or a wood stove and can be used as comfortable overnight emergency accommodation.
| Gear Check | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 pm | 8:00 am | 5:00 pm |
Pre-trip Evening – Gear Check & Briefing
The evening before departure, we meet at Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, for a full gear check, ensuring everyone is properly outfitted for backcountry travel and winter conditions. This is also an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow participants, discuss the trip plan, and review safety protocols, packing tips, and logistics for the days ahead.
You need to bring your own alpine touring boots (or split-boarding setup if you're a snowboarder), but otherwise we can provide all other equipment. Please see the equipment section for details.
You'll be carrying a moderate to heavy pack, including personal gear and group food. Cooking equipment & sleeping bags are at the huts.
Hike / Ski to O'Leary's Hut
Meet at Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo at the above start time. Depart for the iconic high country Glenmore Station on the western shores of Lake Tekapo in one of our 4WD vehicles and enjoy a scenic 1 hour 4WD adventure up the Cass Valley to Waterfall Hut.
From Waterfall Hut at 900m elevation, it is a very steep 1 hour climb into the Waterfall Stream Valley, with ever expanding views over the Mackenzie Basin with the lower Cass Valley framing the deep turquoise blue of Lake Tekapo as your backdrop. After catching your breath, it is then a 2-3 hour hike/ski tour along a gently rising river valley to O'Leary's Hut at 1700m. It is common to do an avalanche rescue skills refresher when you get to the snow.
Relax with a hot (or cold!) beverage beside the wood stove as your guide prepares a tasty dinner. Enjoy watching the stars come out as you soak in the hot tub - don't forget to pack your togs!
3-4 hours hiking in tussocky alpine terrain, boulder-hopping along an alpine stream with some scree, skinning when you get to the snow-line.
Ski traverse from O’Leary’s Hut to Falcon’s Nest Hut
This is the most challenging leg of the Cass Valley Haute Route — a high, committing traverse that rewards strong ski tourers with a true sense of accomplishment. From O’Leary’s Hut, we climb steeply out of the upper Waterfall Stream Valley, gaining a prominent ridge overlooking Tin Hut Stream. The terrain becomes more technical as we cross exposed sections and navigate complex route-finding between alpine bluffs, wind features, and potential avalanche terrain.
Depending on conditions, we may use crampons or boot-pack short sections to safely access the next basin. After a high col crossing, a long descent delivers us into the head of Fork Stream, with a final climb to reach a saddle above South Tin Hut Stream. We descend to the welcome shelter of Falcon’s Nest Hut, nestled in the fork of Tin Hut Stream. A big day in wild terrain — one for the books.
This traverse can be done in either direction – you'll be swapping huts with another group touring in the opposite direction.
Spare Days - Ski Tours from the Hut
O'Leary's, Falcon's Nest, and Lady Emily Huts are great bases for day tours, with a variety of tour options available, depending on your energy levels – climb the peaks and ridges nearby, and enjoy great views of the Southern Alps from the upper ridges.
Your guides will choose the best day and manage the logistics for the crossing to the next hut (you'll be switching huts with another group).
Last Day – Ski / Hike out from Lady Emily Hut
Short morning ski tour then return to Lake Tekapo via a ski / walk down to Memorial Hut and 4WD out the Cass Valley, arriving back around 5-6pm.
The route down from Lady Emily follows a moraine rib, then descends steep tussock slopes. This can be awkward in touring boots, so you may want to bring approach shoes for this.
2-3 hours hiking.
Please note that the huts in the valley (Memorial, Tin and Waterfall Huts) provide extra safety in case of impassable river crossing. All huts are equipped with a fire or a wood stove and can be used as comfortable overnight emergency accommodation.
Cass Valley Haute Route - 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.
Please note that you must bring your own alpine ski touring boots, or if you need to hire them, please see below.*1 All other ski and avalanche safety equipment is provided.
*1 Ski touring boots & split-boarding gear: these can be hired 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 |
| headlamp with spare battery | 1 |
| hiking boots | 1 |
| lightweight polypro / fleece gloves | 1 |
| polypro / merino thermal leggings | 2 |
| polypro / merino top long-sleeved | 2 |
| ski touring equipment (excluding boots) skis with touring bindings, poles, skins, ski crampons | 1 |
| snow gaiters to fit over ski boots or built-in gaiters in your ski pants | 1 |
| sun hat | 1 |
| synthetic / fleece jacket | 1 |
| waterproof gloves / mitts with removable inner for quick drying | 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 |
|---|---|
| 3 season sleeping bag lightweight | 1 |
| alpine ski touring boots with removable liners for easy drying | 1 |
| camera | 1 |
| down jacket | (optional) 1 |
| drink bottle / thermos flask wide-mouth, minimum 1 litre | 1 |
| ear plugs in case of snorers | 1 |
| personal first aid please provide your own blister kit | 1 |
| personal underwear | 1 |
| quick-drying shirt long-sleeved, for sun protection | 1 |
| small dry bags for organising gear | 1 |
| snow goggles | 1 |
| soft-shell pants | (optional) 1 |
| split-boarding equipment split-board, boots, poles, skins, split-board crampons | 1 |
| sun and lip screen high UV rating for snow | 1 |
| sun glasses high UV rating for snow | 1 |
| toiletries please keep these to a minimum | 1 |
Where can I find information about visiting Lake Tekapo?
There's many things to see and do in Lake Tekapo. An afternoon hike after your arrival is a good way to stretch the legs and a soak in the Tekapo Alpine Springs is the perfect way to unwind and ease tired muscles after your mountain adventure. We've put together some helpful information on our recommended activities in Tekapo to get you started.
→ The best activities in Tekapo
What are the best day hikes and walking trails in Tekapo?
We've put together a list of Tekapo's top day hikes and walking trails. A great way to get your legs warmed up before your mountain adventure with Alpine Recreation!
→ Tekapo's best day hikes and walking trails
What are the best mountain biking and cycle trails in Tekapo?
We've put together a list of Tekapo's top mountain biking and cycle trails. A great way to get your legs warmed up before your mountain adventure with Alpine Recreation!
→ Tekapo's best bike and cycle trails
What else can I see/do in the Lake Tekapo region?
We are located in a stunning corner of New Zealand, with quick access to many great mountain adventures. If you have spare time, it is worth spending a few extra days to check out some of the highlights.
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.
How can I book nights at Edelweiss Lodge & Studio?
Edelweiss Lodge accommodation options are available for participants booked on Alpine Recreation trips and courses. Please specify which room you'd like on your enrolment form at the time of booking. All accommodation bookings include a continental breakfast. Please be aware that spaces do fill up quickly and your first choice may not be available. We will let you know if this is the case.
Your scheduled dates don't work for me - what should I do?
Please contact us with your available dates. We may be able to accommodate your request.
What happens if we have really bad weather?
New Zealand's weather is notoriously fickle. It is possible you could be delayed getting into or out of the mountains due to the weather. For this reason, we recommend leaving 1-2 days spare at the end of your trip to avoid disruption to other travel plans. Your guide will endeavour to provide alternative activities/venues to give you the best possible experience. In some cases, if all participants and the guide have flexibility with time, it may be an option to postpone the whole trip by a day (however we cannot guarantee this option and it is at the discretion of the guide).
In many cases, the weather may not be as bad as the forecast might lead you to believe - please remember that we are used to dealing with New Zealand's weather on a regular basis and know where to go and what to do to make the most of it!
Please see our Bad Weather Policies for more information.
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.
What ski / split-board 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 skis, skins, poles, etc.) is provided FREE OF CHARGE and will be issued by your guide at the gear check.
Please note that we cannot provide alpine ski touring boots (or split-board setups) and you will need to 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.
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 enrolment form.
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.
How do I get to / from Lake Tekapo?
Bus: If you want to reach Tekapo by bus on the same day as an international flight, currently there is no public transport option, as Intercity bus connections leave Christchurch and Queenstown early in the morning and only run on certain days of the week. Please check carefully before booking flights that might look like they could connect.
Rental car: If you plan to hire a car, you may wish to car-pool with others in your group – please email us if you'd like to arrange car-pooling.
Please make sure you have your return transport sorted well before the day your trip starts!
How do I find Edelweiss Lodge?
Please follow the Google Maps directions on our Contact Page. Note that Edelweiss Lodge is the main building with an attached garage (not the wooden cabin in front of it).
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.
What food is included on your trips?
We provide all meals from lunch on the first day through to lunch on the final day — you’ll be well-fed from start to finish. If your booking includes a stay at Edelweiss Lodge the night before your trip, a continental breakfast is also included, so you’re sorted from breakfast on day one.
Our meals are fresh, wholesome, and designed to keep you fuelled for long days in the mountains. Expect generous portions and hearty food that hits the spot after a big day outdoors!
Where do you source your food from?
We proudly support local producers and ethical suppliers who align with our values of quality, care, and sustainability. Some of our favourite suppliers include:
- Geraldine Cheese Company
- Southern Sky Roasters (coffee)
- Boring Milk (Plant based Milk)
- Verkerks Meats
- Cookie Time, OSM & EM's
- Pic’s Peanut Butter
- YUM granola
…and more!
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, absolutely! We can cater for a wide range of dietary needs — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, FODMAP, and others. Just let us know on your booking form and we’ll make sure your meals are suitable and satisfying.
What if I have a food allergy?
We take food allergies seriously. Please let us know your specific allergy details when you book, and we’ll do everything we can to minimise risk and prepare safe meals. While we can’t guarantee a completely allergen-free kitchen, we are careful and considerate in handling requests.
What if I have a food intolerance?
We’re happy to adjust meals to suit your needs — whether it’s avoiding gluten, dairy, or other ingredients. Just give us clear information on your booking form so we can plan accordingly.
