Mount Fox Route

For experienced and well-equipped trampers only. Check with the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre before starting.

This rough route climbs steeply through the bush up a spur to a trig point at 1021 m above sea level. The route then follows blue and orange markers through grassland to 1345 m. 

From here your efforts will be well rewarded with fantastic views of the Southern Alps Kā Tiritiri o te Moana and Fox Glacier Te Moeka o Tuawe in one direction and across coastal forest and farmland to the coast to the other. 

Take care above the bushline as the track can easily be lost if conditions are misty or if the cloud descends.

Start early in the morning to be on the mountain top before cloud rolls in obscuring the view. This is a regular event, particularly in the summer months.

Drive south for approximately 3 km from Fox Glacier Weheka township, until you reach Thirsty Culvert. There is a small parking area on the right hand side of the road while the route starts on the left.

• Check the current track conditions and weather forecasts at the local DOC office (Fox Glacier Weheka township) or the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre before starting your trip.
• Always take warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly. 
• Carry drinking water, insect repellent and sun protection at all times.

Before you go into the outdoors, tell someone your plans and leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven't returned. To do this, use the New Zealand Outdoors Intentions process on the AdventureSmart website. It is endorsed by New Zealand's search and rescue agencies and provides three simple options to tell someone you trust the details about your trip.