Mount Ellis

Mount Ellis, a craggy 1,574-metre peak in the Hanmer Range, is a magnet for hikers and mountain bikers seeking panoramic views and a rewarding physical challenge. Its exposed ridgeline offers sweeping vistas of the Seaward Kaikōura Range and the Canterbury Plains, with the Hanmer Basin spread out below like a topographical map. The mountain is accessible via the well-marked Mount Ellis Track, which starts from the end of Jollies Pass Road and climbs steadily through beech forest before breaking out into tussock and rock.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Ellis Summit: The main prize – a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains, the Hanmer Basin, and on clear days, the Pacific Ocean. The summit is a classic ‘top of the world’ experience.
• Jollies Pass Road: The gravel access road itself is a scenic drive, winding through golden tussock and offering glimpses of the mountain before you even start the hike.
• Dog Stream Waterfall: A short detour on the lower slopes leads to a pretty waterfall tumbling over mossy rocks – a cool spot on a hot day.
• Mountain Biking: The Mount Ellis Track is a popular (and challenging) descent for experienced mountain bikers, with fast, flowy sections and technical rocky bits. The Hanmer Springs MTB Park also has trails that link to the area.
• Alpine Flora: In spring and summer, the hillsides bloom with mountain daisies, edelweiss, and other hardy alpine plants – keep an eye out for the tiny but vibrant gentians.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day for the Mount Ellis hike from the car park to the summit and back – expect 5–7 hours depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. If you’re mountain biking, the descent is quicker, but you’ll need to factor in the climb (or arrange a shuttle). Most visitors combine the hike with a soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools afterwards, which is the perfect way to reward tired legs. Start early to avoid afternoon heat and afternoon cloud build-up, which can obscure the views.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs: The charming alpine village with its famous thermal pools, spa treatments, and excellent cafés and restaurants. A must-visit after a day on the mountain.
• Conical Hill Walk: A shorter, easier walk near the village that offers a different perspective of the Hanmer Basin and is great for a quick leg-stretch.
• Hanmer Forest Park: A network of walking and mountain biking trails through towering redwoods and Douglas firs, with picnic spots and birdlife.
• Waiau River: Offers jet boating, kayaking, and swimming in summer. The river’s turquoise waters are a stunning sight from Mount Ellis.
• Kaikōura: A 90-minute drive north takes you to the coast, famous for whale watching, dolphin encounters, and fresh seafood. A great add-on for a longer trip.

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