The route begins at the Mount Somers Track partway between Pinnacles Hut and Woolshed Creek Hut. It climbs steeply up the mountain, then leads south-east across to the summit. Here it meets the Mount Somers summit hike.

Te Kiekie Route can be walked as a side trip from the Mount Somers Track or as a day trip from Pinnacles Hut.

This is a new route so is not yet marked on the topographic maps.

Te Kiekie Route is unformed, marked with poles, and very steep in places. It is best suited to fit, experienced trampers. There is no tree cover so it is fully exposed to the weather – be prepared for both hot, dry conditions and cold, wind and rain.

There can be snow and ice in winter and spring, requiring an ice axe, crampons and mountaineering experience. The best time to tramp this route is from November to April.

The summit of Mount Somers is very exposed to southerly fronts. Cloud can quickly reduce visibility and make navigation difficult. Always carry navigation aids (eg, map, compass, GPS) and know how to use them. Carry a distress beacon.

Check the weather forecast. We recommend not attempting this route if low visibility is predicted.

In winter, the south face of Mount Somers gets very little sunlight, making the snow hard and icy.

You can start this route from the Mount Somers summit hike or the Mount Somers Track.

Be ready for all weather

The Mount Somers area is an alpine environment and bad weather can occur at any time of the year. The area can be extremely hot and dry, and at others times can experience freezing cold, high winds, heavy rain and snow.

There is no tree cover on much of the route and you are fully exposed to the weather.

Always bring warm, waterproof layers, sturdy footwear and sun protection.

Be careful of low visibility. Always carry navigation aids (eg, map, compass, GPS) and know how to use them.

Check the Mount Somers Track weather forecast

Pack well for your hike

Overnight and multi-day packing list for tramping

We recommend carrying a distress beacon. This track is on NZTopo50 map sheets BX20, with BX19 covering adjacent terrain on Mount Somers.

Expect snow and challenging alpine conditions in winter

An ice axe, crampons and some mountaineering experience are required to safely reach the summit. The summit of Mount Somers is very exposed to southerly fronts.

In winter, the south face of Mt Somers gets very little sunlight, making the snow hard and icy.

There are wasps

Wasps may be present in high numbers, particularly during summer. Consider carrying an antihistamine product and if you are allergic to stings, ensure you bring your medication.