Mount Ollivier Mountain

Mount Ollivier is a peak in the Canterbury Region of New Zealand’s South Island within the Southern Alps area. It is relatively modest in height compared with nearby peaks and is noted in New Zealand mountaineering history.

The mountain was one of the early climbs of Sir Edmund Hillary and is often mentioned in accounts of his early mountaineering. Routes to the summit are alpine in character and normally approached by hikers and mountaineers visiting the Aoraki/Mount Cook region.

Mount Ollivier lies within the broader Aoraki/Mount Cook area of the Southern Alps on the South Island and is accessible from valley approaches used for nearby peaks and huts.

• Hillary connection: Associated with Sir Edmund Hillary-one of his earliest notable climbs-making it of interest to those studying local mountaineering history.

Mount Ollivier is accessed from the Hooker Valley/ Aoraki-Mount Cook area. Reach the regional road network via Twizel or Mount Cook Village, then follow well-marked trackheads into alpine approaches-be prepared for alpine conditions and hut logistics.

• Combine this peak with a longer traverse of the Sealy Tarns area for varied scenery.
• Mount Ollivier is often climbed as part of Sir Edmund Hillary's training route-look for plaques and small memorials on the route.
• In winter conditions, use crampons and ice tools-the ridge can be exposed and icy.