Ōtira-Deception hunting

General information

The Ōtira, Deception, Rolleston and Kelly Creek valleys are very accessible places for hunters. They are all fairly small catchments with generally open river beds, steep forested hillsides and tussock tops.

The upper valley of the Deception River is most popular for hunting and is open all year round. It is also a popular tramping route to Canterbury.

Carry a PLB or radio. Mobile phone coverage is often poor and should not be relied on.

Access

Access to these places is from SH73. There is a footbridge a few km up the road from Aickens corner that provides access across the Ōtira River to the Deception Valley. The route up the Deception takes you to Goat Pass.

There is foot access up the Rolleston, with a track that leads into the head waters.  A track up Kelly Creek directly off the highway leads across a low saddle into the upper Hunts Creek.

A steep track from Kelly Creek carpark takes you to Carroll Hut and the Seven Mile tops and continues into the Taipo Valley.

Note: The Deception River can be dangerous to cross if in flood.

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

Landholders

There is private land at the mouth of the Deception near Aickens. Phone J and E Evans +64 3 738 2818  for access permission.

Map

NZTopo50 BV20.

Dogs

The whole area is part of Arthurs Pass National Park and no dogs are permitted.

Huts

There are several standard or basic DOC huts in the area:

• Carroll Hut
• Upper Deception Hut
• Hunts Creek Hut
• Pfeiffer Bivvy

Hunting

• Red deer can be found throughout the area at any time of the year however spring hunting on the grass flats and the Roar is most popular. 
• Chamois are found mainly in the alpine areas in low numbers. 
• Hares are found throughout. 
• Possums are controlled by TBfree and DOC in the lower parts of the valley only. 
• Feral pigs and goats are uncommon.

Additional information

Report any goat sightings in the area to DOC.