St Arnaud to Hanmer Road
Built in the 1950s to service the hydroelectric power pylons marching northwards, this road follows a historic droving route up the Wairau Valley and into Canterbury. From the north, it is a public road as far as the Rainbow Ski Area turnoff. Outside the open period during summer there are locked gates just south of the Rainbow Ski Area turn-off and just north of Coldwater Creek campsite. A toll is charged at all times and the road can close without warning.
You must complete the access form. These are available at the time of gaining access (in season) and/or keys (off season). To complete the form beforehand, see the Rainbow Station website.
The site also has information about road toll charges and current road status.
The DoC website also has information, and the DOC Visitor Centre at St Arnaud can also provide advice.
Upper Wairau River
Upstream from Coldwater Creek, the Wairau valley is part of Molesworth Farm Park. Most peaks south and east of the river here are little more than huge scree piles in summer. In winter there will be ski touring opportunities, but Island Saddle may be impassable due to snow. Two huts are convenient climbing bases: Sedgemere Sleepout (4 bunks, basic), 1km west of Lake Sedgemere; and Island Gully Hut (5 bunks, standard).