Benmore Range & Springs Creek Conservation Area
Introduction
The Benmore Range Conservation Area comprises 1200 ha on the western slopes of the Benmore Range, from The Cairn to Sutherlands Peak (1846 m) The range provides spectacular views of the Mackenzie Basin and the Southern Alps including Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Aspiring at higher elevations.
Spring Creek Conservation Area protects a representative 100 hectare area of fescue tussock grassland, as well as a small area of carex wetland.
The Benmore Range and Spring Creek Conservation Areas came from Glenbrook Station completing the tenure review process in April 2002.
Features
Benmore Range fellfield
Benmore Range conservation area contains slim snow tussock (Chionochloa macra) and narrow-leaved snow tussock (Chionochloa rigida) as well as an array of alpine herbs amongst extensive fellfields along the summit ridge.
The New Zealand falcon/kārearea, sky lark, chukor, California quail and the New Zealand pipit/pihoihoi can all be found in the conservation area, as well as the common skink and common gecko.
Spring Creek is a wonderful venue for a relaxing stroll or family picnic. Currently, within both these areas, dogs, fires and firearms are not allowed.
Location
The two conservation areas are at the northern end of the Benmore Range, Mackenzie Country, four kilometres south of Twizel township.
Getting there
An access easement (walking only) to the Benmore Range Conservation Area is sign-posted at the northern boundary of Glenbrook Station, near the southern access road to the Wairepo Arm recreational area.
Spring Creek is easily accessed on the western side of State Highway 8, (12 km south of Twizel township) with the entrance gate well signposted.
Plan and prepare
The relevant maps are NZ Topo Maps H38 & H39.
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