Plan and prepare
Getting there
Public transport
Southern Link (+64 3 358 8355) and Lazerline (0800 220 001) provide transport between Christchurch and Nelson via the Lewis Pass Road (Highway 7). Timetables are available from bus companies, or the Hurunui Visitor Information Centre, Hanmer Springs.
Tramper on the St James Walkway
Trampers should aim to arrive at the shelters at least a half hour before the scheduled times which are approximate. It is up to trampers to signal the bus drivers. (Note: timetables are always subject to change).
Car parking
Car parking is available at both entrances, but the Boyle area is more secure. The area is subject to vandalism.
Boyle Outdoor Education Lodge offers secure parking and a drop off service, as well as shuttles to the top of the pass, phone +64 3 315-7082.
If you have your own transport you should begin the walk from the top end of the Lewis Pass and finish at the car park near Boyle settlement. You can use the bus service to travel back up to the Lewis Pass end.
Safety
New Zealand's mountain ranges offer a wide variety of recreational opportunities amid beautiful scenery. However, they also offer extremes of weather. Sudden wind changes can result in a rapid deterioration of the weather, and hazards include extreme cold, flooded rivers and avalanches.
While the St James is not a difficult walk, its location in a sub-alpine area with erratic weather conditions necessitates safety precautions.
Trampers should be well equipped, especially during winter months. For those with little or no experience, familiarization with the Mountain Safety Council's pamphlets "Bushcraft" and "A Guide to Understanding Mountain Weather" is recommended.
Remember:
Travel with a group: Never travel alone. In the event of an accident, there is a better chance of prompt help. Four is a safe minimum.
Advise your intentions: Inform friends or relatives of your intended route and completion date for the walk. Also sign the record books in both the Boyle and Lewis Pass shelters and huts. If you are overdue, search and rescue action can be taken promptly and effectively.
Map: You will require the St James track map - Infomap series 335-06. This details the route including the location of huts. The sketch map in this pamphlet is a general guide to the route and is not a substitute for the topographical map.
Clothing and footwear: Be prepared for the worst - bad weather is a possibility regardless of season. Carry warm clothing and include waterproof parka and over-trousers. Sturdy, comfortable boots are essential, as is a good pack and a sleeping bag with waterproof cover. On half day trips strong shoes and a parka are minimal equipment.
Note: All parties should be self-sufficient in case of an accident or huts being full.
First aid kit: Carry a small first aid kit. The "Bushcraft" manual details what to take, together with other items to carry.
Weather forecast: Get a forecast by phoning 0900 999 26 for the Canterbury High Country weather before you start.
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