Accommodation
Accommodation is in public DOC huts or wilderness camping. Tents, cooking and camping equipment are provided.
Aspiring National Park Trekking
Brewster Glacier Trek
The Brewster Glacier Trek is an expedition to explore the accessible Brewster Glacier in Mount Aspiring National Park. The journey through the elevation zones shows the diversity of the region including glaciers, sub-alpine scrub, and beech forest. Suitable for all levels of previous experience, it is possible to camp at glacial lakes, exploring the glacier including its ice formations, caves and crevasses, and even try some ice climbing. We offer an overnight option or a longer trip during which it is possible to spend more time exploring the area, ascending peaks, or learning mountaineering skills.
1
It is an hour and a half drive from Wānaka to Haast Pass, along the shores of Lake Hāwea and Wānaka to the start of the trek. After crossing the Haast River, the track climbs up very steeply through the beech forest before the route opens up onto the scrub and tussock alpine tops for the last hour to Brewster Hut.
It is possible to stay at Brewster Hut or continue to camp beside the terminal lakes of the glacier itself.
2
The next day is spent gearing up for the glacier, learning to use crampons and ice axes to explore crevasses, and moulins (water holes in the glacier), and maybe trying some ice climbing.
The next day is spent gearing up for the glacier, learning to use crampons and ice axes to explore crevasses, and moulins (water holes in the glacier), and maybe trying some ice climbing.
Equipment
You will need good personal outdoor clothing for the mountains.
You will be expected to carry your personal gear, some group equipment.
Fitness
It is a steep, 1000m climb, to Brewster Hut, and good fitness is required.
Backcountry Experience
No previous crampon or ice axe experience is required. Some previous and recent off-track trekking experience is useful.
Availability
Get in touch to arrange private trips from December to March.
Pricing
3-day expeditions: $3870 / $2250/ $1650 / $1290 per person for 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 people.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Includes: Applicable taxes, NZMGA certified guide, mountain food and accommodation, transport from Wānaka, and technical equipment.
Booking Conditions
Brewster Hut is popular during the summer so space is only available when booked well in advance. Otherwise, it is possible to camp outside the hut, or from a more remote wilderness experience, on sites closer to the glacier.
Up close to the main divide, the Brewster Glacier can be exposed to harsh mountain weather. The Haast river is un-bridged and during heavy rain, it may not be possible to cross. We recommend booking at least 3 days to give you the best opportunity to get some good weather for the trip. The itinerary above is flexible to make the most of the weather available.
‘A very professional guide and great company. He took time to explain to us what walks were possible/practical each day depending on the weather and the impact it would have on the surrounding rivers. If you are city dwellers it is very comforting to know that your guide is thinking of the safety of the group. [He] certainly kept us well fed as well. We are looking forward to future trips in the beautiful mountains around Wanaka which is a refreshing change and takes us out of our comfort zone for a few days at least.’
— — Michael, Siberia Hut Trip
