What does the price cover?
The ecotour fee covers all transport, accommodation, meals, Department of Conservation concession fee,  Goods and Services Tax. Pick up and delivery from Christchurch can be arranged if required for which an additional charge is incurred. Price provided on enquiry.

What is our accommodation like?There are two options.  Both are very comfortable, provide all facilities and respect the privacy of guests. Ross Cottage is a beautifully restored historic cottage now registered with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (Reg.No. 51212). Mountain Beech Lodge was constructed in 1999.  The property contains ancient podocarps (kahikatea) and other remnants of the original bush as well as extensive plantings of natives.

What about the weather?
The foothills of the Southern Alps can experience a wide range of weather conditions any month of the year. Whilst the range of temperature during the months of September to May is usually between 15 - 25°C, it can drop to less than 5°C and rise to over 30°C.  Wind chill can lower the temperature to as low as -10°C or even lower.  Rain can be expected  on average about once every 8 days.

At higher altitudes, snow can fall during any month of the year.  During the summer however the norm is settled anticyclonic weather with fine days and warm temperatures. Winter is characterised by cool but fine days and crystal clear skies. Frosts are common in winter but usually followed by sunny days. There are on average approximately 5 snow days a year.

What clothing and footwear will I need?

• A good quality waterproof parka.
• Warm clothing - vest, woollen jersey, gloves, warm hat
• Back pack (small)
• Tramping boots or stout walking shoes
• Sun hat, sun screen, insect repellent

Does the ecotour cover the Mt Somers Walkway?
The ecotour takes you to both ends of the Walkway. Approximately six to eight hours will be spent on the Walkway over two days discovering the natural history of beech forest and subalpine tussock grasslands. For more information see the Mt Somers Walkway page.

I'm interested - what do I do now?
Go to the booking page or ask for a Tussock & Beech Ecotours brochure - we will respond to your enquiry promptly.