Routeburn tested us - our gear saved us!

We hiked the Routeburn in February 2024 — and what a ride. Glacier lake swims, surprise summer snow, and those unbeatable ridgeline views made it a trip we’ll never forget.

We were lucky with the weather (sort of) — bluebird skies one-minute, sub-zero windchill the next. Our Rab Kangri jacket was worth its weight in gold up on the Harris Saddle — hands down the MVP of the trip when the temperature dropped and the wind came through like it meant business. Dry as a bone, and that couldn’t be said for everyone!

Lake McKenzie was freezing (no surprises there) but so stunning we had to achieve a cold plunge — the colours were unreal, all shades of emerald and jade.

Climbing over the rocky ridgelines felt like you were walking along the spine of the South Island — exposed, epic, and just the right amount of wild. I did run this track, circa 2 months later, on a blue bird day, totally different experience to traversing in snow!

The forest elements of the Routeburn looked like something out of a fantasy novel, especially when the sun broke through and lit up the moss and baby-blue rivers.

If you're thinking about doing the Routeburn, do it. And pack well — it’s a trail that rewards the prepared (and punishes cotton socks).