After getting a ride to Christchurch with Chris I took a bus to Geraldine and met up with Shannon. We grabbed some food at the local Four Square and got our 4wd on up the Macaulay River. Our plan was to spend a few days ski touring in the Macaulay Valley
Mackenzie
Two Thumbs Range Traverse from Roundhill to Mount Dobson
The next two days 100 mph winds hit the mountains and barraged the Two Thumbs range. Ryan Nicols and I decided to do the Two Thumbs Range traverse from Roundhill to Dobson which was about 12 miles and 8,000 feet of vertical gain.
Back to New Zealand and Mount Dobson
After a success full season of ski touring in the Northern Hemisphere it was time to head back to New Zealand. This time I around I would take the long route through SE Asia before arriving. Once back on the South Island it was time to find a place to live. After charting upon the maps it was decided to Move to Fairlie. It was the perfect spot because it was close to Mount Dobson, Round Hill and Fox Peak. Not only that but the only road heading North and South went through town.
Exploring the backcountry of Ohau Snow Field
On our way back from the Temple Basin Splitboard festival we decided to check out the Ohau snow field backcountry. Ohau is a special place with only one ski lift but the access is huge.
If you are willing to drive up one of the sketchiest roads in New Zealand it is well worth it.