Media release
8 January 2013
Clarence Reserve 4WD open weekends begin
For the last four years, four-wheel drive enthusiasts from as far away as Germany have taken up the opportunity to
travel through the spectacular high country Clarence Reserve near Kaikoura. This scenic and remote part of the Ka Whata
Tu O Rakahouia Conservation Park is open to members of the public for the next 5 weekends.
“The Clarence Valley offers spectacular views and amazing rock formations but the 4WD road is challenging even at the
best of times” says Department of Conservation Ranger Shelly Sidley . "But for those who enjoy a good driving challenge,
the incredible vistas, craggy slopes, pinnacles, alpine plant communities and the raging Clarence River make it an
opportunity not to be missed."
The weekends the reserve will be open for 4WD access are 11-13 January, 18 -20 January, 25-27 January, 1-3 February and
8-10 February weather permitting. Gates are open from 12pm – 5pm on Friday and 8am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Normally you would require a sturdy 4WD and the skills and confidence to tackle steep and narrow roads and tough river
crossings, to be able to take advantage of these open weekends. But for those people without a vehicle, there is another
option. Experienced local Kaikoura guide and driver Karl Townsend and his unimog will be available to passengers for $75
per person.
An alternative is to tag along with the Marlborough 4WD Club on the 26 and 27January. They have spaces in their vehicles
for passengers to ride along.
“By hitching a ride with the 4WD club, people can enjoy the incredible vistas, craggy slopes, pinnacles, and the raging
Clarence River without having to drive in or even own a 4WD.”
Alternatively, for those interested in the thrills of a good driving challenge and but would like the piece of mind of
that comes with travelling as part of an organized group, the 4WD club is inviting 4WD vehicle owners to join in on
their convoy.
Drivers must register before entering. Vehicles must be warranted and registered four-wheel drives. Chains are
recommended. Motorbikes can also be ridden and must be registered and warranted. To book a seat with the Karl Townsend
or the Marlborough 4WD Club, contact the Department of Conservation on 03 572 9100. Seats are limited.
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.
ENDS
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.