Back to Guides

Arthur's Pass VFR Corridor

The classic East-West crossing of the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Hokitika.

Overview

Arthur’s Pass is the most well-known VFR crossing of the Southern Alps. It links Christchurch (NZCH) on the east coast with Hokitika (NZHK) on the west, following the Waimakariri River valley to the pass and descending to the coast.

Arthur's Pass VFR Corridor

Route

  1. Depart Christchurch (NZCH). Expect a clearance westbound via the Waimakariri River corridor.
  2. Follow the Waimakariri River upstream through the gorge.
  3. Cross Arthur’s Pass (3,018 ft pass saddle) at a minimum of 7,500 ft MSL - higher if terrain clearance or turbulence demands it.
  4. Descend west of the divide into the Otira Valley and then the Taramakau River.
  5. Continue west, descending toward the coast and joining the Hokitika aerodrome area (CTAF 119.1).

Reporting Points

  • Waimakariri Gorge - about 25 NM north-west of Christchurch, entry to the corridor.
  • Arthur’s Pass - the saddle itself.
  • Otira - western side of the divide.
  • Kumara - coastal junction.

Minimum Altitudes

  • 7,500 ft MSL over the pass and the main divide.
  • 2,000 ft AGL minimum over national park land.

Frequencies

Service Frequency
Christchurch Approach / Departure 120.9
Christchurch Information (Hokitika area) 118.5
Hokitika CTAF 119.1

Hazards

  • Mountain wave and downdrafts on the lee side.
  • Rapid cloud build-up - the pass can close in minutes.
  • The Waimakariri valley has multiple braided channels - easy to mistake your position.
  • Nor’west arch gives way to cloud and rain west of the divide.

Tips

  • Cross early in the day; cloud builds by afternoon.
  • File a flight plan - there are limited landing options on the divide.
  • If the pass is closed, consider Haast Pass as an alternative.

For flight simulation use only. Always check weather, minimum altitudes and your aircraft limits before flying these routes.

Back to Guides