Otira, Arthur'a Pass, West Coast Tourism West Coast

Arthur's Pass National Park

Situated in the centre of the South Island, along the pass between Canterbury and the West Coast, Arthur’s Pass National Park is the third oldest national park in New Zealand. At the heart of the Southern Alps, alpine recreation defines this stunning national park.

Location

Arthur’s Pass Village lies at the centre of Arthur's Pass National Park and is a 2 hour drive from Christchurch (in the east) and 1.5 hours from Greymouth (to the west).
 

Getting To Arthur's Pass National Park

SH73, between Christchurch and Greymouth, travels straight through the centre of the national park. Regular bus services run between Greymouth and Christchurch.
One of the world’s great train journeys – the TranzAlpine Express – also passes through Arthur's Pass National Park, offering dramatic views of the mountains and plains.

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Accommodation in Arthur's Pass National Park

Accommodation can be found in Arthur’s Pass Village.
On the walking tracks there are 30 backcountry huts, linked together by the extensive track system.

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Hiking & Walking Tracks in Arthur's Pass

Short Walks:

Day Walks:

Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall – 1 hour return

 Carroll Hut – 6 hours return

Bridal Veil – 1.5 hours return

Otira Valley – 1 hour each way

Dobson Nature Walk – 1.5 hours return

Temple Basin – 1.5 hours one way

Bealey Valley – 2-4 hours return

Coral Track – 2 hours one way

Old Coach Road – 30 minutes return

Cons Track -  6 – 8 hours return

Cockayne Nature Walk – 30 minutes return

Bealey Spur – 4 – 6 hours return

Millenium Walk – 10 minutes return

Mount Aicken – 6- 8 hours return

 

Mount Bealey – 6-8 hours return
 
Longer Hikes

See the Department of Conservation website for route guides and details of the many overnight hikes on offer.

In summer, overnight hikes are suitable for hikers of average fitness and experience. In winter, more skill is required as conditions can be very difficult.

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Arthur's Pass Climate

Weather through the pass is often unpredictable, with heavy snowfall and mud slips often blocking the trails.

  • In summer, bring hot weather gear (hats, sunscreen, shorts) but also come prepared for a sudden drop in temperature, or rain.
  • In winter, snow and rain apparel is essential.
     
Arthur's Pass National Park Flora & Fauna

Common indigenous birds are found all over Arthur's Pass National Park, including:

  • Bellbirds
  • Fantails
  • Kea (these inquisitive birds are infamous thieves, and will try to steal anything that takes their fancy!)
  • Kiwi (though their nocturnal habits make them hard to spot)
     

Plant life differs greatly depending which part of the park you are in.

  • On the west, thick beech forest carpets the hills, and podocarp species are prolific.
  • Above the bush line alpine plants grow, with some fascinating examples found a short distance from the main road.
 Contact

Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
SH 73, Arthur's Pass

Ph: +64 3 318 9211
arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz