Shotover Saddle Route
Located in Matukituki Valley area and Mount Aspiring National Park in the Otago region
Introduction
The Shotover Saddle Route offers magnificent views of the West Matukituki and Rob Roy valleys.4 km return via same track
Seasonal restrictions
The route is closed for lambing from 17 October to 7 November inclusive.
Dog access
Just past the prominent Brides Veil Waterfall a sign indicates the start of the marked route which follows a leading ridge up towards the Shotover Saddle. The route initially negotiates patches of bracken before reaching higher tussock slopes.
Just below the saddle a shelf with a large tarn makes an easier finish to the saddle for magnificent views of the West Matukituki and Rob Roy Valleys.
Beyond the saddle there is no marked route, naviational skills are required. Prior permission is required from Branches Station to exit via the Shotover River.
Adverse weather
The weather can change rapidly in New Zealand. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer. Be prepared by having warm, waterproof, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear. Whiteout conditions caused by snow or low cloud may be present. Check the Mount Aspiring National Park weather forecast – NIWA website.
Be avalanche alert: This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information.
Private property: This track crosses private land. Respect the landowner's livestock and property: stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land, leave gates as you find them and use stiles where provided. Livestock can be unpredictable – keep your distance at all times/go around if necessary.
No camping until the conservation area boundary.
Crossing rivers: If you plan to cross an unbridged river, you must know how to identify an unsafe river, and where and how to cross safely. You should also be prepared for being unable to cross.
If the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe, do not try to cross. Turn back or wait for the river to drop - this often takes a few hours after rain, so be ready and pack emergency shelter and extra food.
A river is unsafe if there is:
- discoloured water
- debris in the water (such as branches)
- water flowing faster than walking pace
- movement of rocks in the water you can hear
Learn more about river safety on the NZ Mountain Safety Council website.
Your safety is your responsibility
- Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
- Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Safety Code.
Contacts
| Tititea / Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | 0272696871 |
| Fax: | 03 4437660 |
| Email: | wanakavc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
1 Ballantyne Road Wanaka 9305 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 93 Wanaka 9343 |
| Full office details | |