Discovering Erewhon: A Remote Gem in New Zealand
Erewhon, a remote area in New Zealand, is intriguingly named as "nowhere" spelled backwards, almost. This name reflects the quirky humour of the families who established sheep stations here over 150 years ago. Located near the Rangitata River in the deepest part of the Southern Alps, Erewhon is a place of striking landscapes and historical interest. Check the weblink if you would like to visit.
The nearby Mt Sunday Track is a highlight for many visitors, with stunning views and a LOTR connection.
Scenic Drive to Mt Sunday
The drive from Lake Clearwater in the Hakatere Conservation Park (Ashburton Lakes) to the Mt Sunday Track is approximately 20 kilometres. This route is not only a gateway to the track but also a visual treat. The road is flanked by Mt Potts, standing at 2,184 metres, on the northeast side, and the expansive Rangitata River valley on the southwest, with the Black Mountain Range as a backdrop. You can also stay at Mt Potts Lodge.
To the northwest, far down the valley, you can spot glaciers near the main divide. During winter, the valley is normally accessible, and snow covers most peaks, making it even more scenic.
How to Get There
To reach Erewhon and the Mt Sunday Track from Christchurch, head south on State Highway 1 to Rakaia. There, take Thompson’s Track, then the Tramway Road across the Canterbury Plain to Mt Somers township. From there, take Ashburton Gorge Road to Hakatere in the Hakatere Conservation Park, where the road turns to gravel. From there, follow Hakatere Potts Road to the Mt Sunday car park. The drive is around 3 hours and 185 km.
Nearby, check out the lakes around Hakatere, including Lake Clearwater, Lake Camp, Lake Roundabout, Lake Emma, Māori Lakes and Lake Heron.
