Media release

9 December 2011

Summer 4WD weekends in Clarence Reserve

Four-wheel drive weekends in the spectacular high country Clarence Reserve area near Kaikoura have been moved to summer-only trips to fit with the holiday period and with the aim of getting good weather after bad weather forced trips to be cancelled last year.

The Department of Conservation-run trips in this part of Ka Whata Tu O Rakahouia Conservation Park have been held in spring and summer in the two previous years.

Trips will be held over five weekends this summer, starting on the weekend of Friday 6 January through to Sunday 8 January and over the four following weekends with the last trip on the Waitangi Day holiday weekend, Saturday 4 February through to Monday 6 February.

‘Last year we really had to battle the weather,” said DOC South Marlborough Community Relations Manager Colin Davis. ‘One weekend was cancelled completely and another halfway through.

‘Drivers need the confidence and skills to drive on the steep and narrow gravel roads at the best of times but as soon we get any significant rain the mud slicks up and the roads become impassable.’

The weekend trips provide the thrills of a good driving challenge and the Clarence Reserve’s incredible vistas, taking in craggy slopes, pinnacles, some amazing alpine plant communities and the raging Clarence River.

Access is only available when the gates are open, from 12pm – 5pm Fridays and 8am to 5pm Saturdays and Sundays, and drivers must register before entering. Vehicles must be warranted and registered four-wheel drives. Chains must be carried. Motorbikes can also be ridden and must be registered and warranted.

DOC staff monitor weather closely prior to each scheduled 4WD weekend to determine whether it can go ahead or if the forecast weather conditions will warrant closure of the access road. People planning to make the trip can check if it is on by calling the DOC South Marlborough Office on 03 572 9100 a day or two beforehand.

There are several huts within the reserve, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping is also available. Hunting is not permitted during 4WD weekends.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the DOC South Marlborough Area Office, ph (03) 572 9100 or from the DOC website www.doc.govt.nz.

Background information

The Clarence Reserve area protects some of the highest mountains in New Zealand outside the Southern Alps. The area is of national significance geologically. Due to its relatively dry climate, the area escaped extensive glaciations during the Ice Age. Instead of glacial features, landforms above the original bush line are a result of mass movement of rock and debris. In places, it seems the very bones of the mountains are revealed — chalky white outcrops of limestone, contrasting vividly with deep-red remnants of ancient underground volcanic activity.

© Scoop Media