Epic New Zealand - Queenstown in May-June 2025! Climb Ben Lomond!

Epic New Zealand - Queenstown in May-June 2025!

Climb Ben Lomond!

Scenic Twin Rivers Trail!

We are off to the majestic South Island of New Zealand!

At 8:30AM on Saturday 31 May 2025, we will meet at the statue of William Rees, in Queenstown harbour park at the intersection of Marine Parade and Rees Street. We march off through town to the Skyline Gondola for the 500 Metre lift to Bobs Peak, and commence our trek to the Summit of Ben Lomond, the dominant local mountain peak. This is about a 12KM out-and-back trek, but it does rise through 1,000 meters, so we will take a measured pace and enjoy this magnificent place with its awe-inspiring views. The Gondola fare, including the return descent, is about $70,

At 8:30AM on Sunday 1 June 2025, we again meet at the statue of William Rees and take the Orbus out to Queenstown International Airport to access the Twin Rivers Trail, with lunch at Colono Beach on the Kawarau River and a crossing of the historical Shotover Bridge.

Distance: 15KM and 20KM

Type of Walk: Mix of mountain trekking and river trails. Queenstown is relatively quiet at this time of year, and it is a beautiful place to hang out! We may have to make some modifications depending on snow conditions.

Difficulty: Medium.

Travel and accommodation: Members make their own travel/accommodation arrangements. I have picked a quiet weekend with good prices on airfares currently available. Think about date extensions either side of the weekend. Jen and I are flying on Wednesday and leaving Tuesday. We will finish the Sunday Walking in time for Members wishing to catch a late flight home to Sydney.

What to bring: Trail runners are fine for the river walk, but pack boots as there may be some snow on the Ben Lomond climb. Warm weather jacket and pants for Ben Lomond. 1.5 litres of water, no refills. Food! THERE ARE NO SHOPS AT PLANNED LUNCH STOPS SO PLEASE BRING FOOD.

Suggested Donation: $100 FOR THIS SPECIAL EVENT.

Pub: TBA: I will hunt down the best options for a team dinner on Saturday/Sunday night and discuss on Saturday.

By RSVPing to this event, you (and your guests) agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of SOMG which you can view here:

https://www.meetup.com/sydney-outdoors-meetup-group/messages/boards/thread/53245383

Questions? Please leave a comment below. I look forward to seeing you on this walk. I will post my mobile number closer to the day.

Ted :)