2010 Australian Systematic Botany Society Conference
Ranunculus lyallii (Mt Cook buttercup) and Mt Cook. Image: Fraser Gunn.
Field trip
Arthur’s Pass field trip information:
- Weather permitting, we will visit the subalpine zone of the upper Otira Valley, Arthur’s Pass, on the Main Divide of the Southern Alps, with a true alpine option (to the snowline and beyond) for fitter participants.
- Attractions: Mount Cook buttercup (Ranunculus lyallii), other subalpine plants such as snow tussocks, Aciphylla, Veronica/Hebe, Dracophyllum and Phormium; treeline species such as mountain ribbonwood and Dracophyllum traversii; colourful aerophytic algae; possibly snow algae and bird life such as the kea. On route to the Otira you will see the limestone outcrops in Castle Hill Basin and southern beech forest.
- You MUST bring:
- thermal top and leggings
- warm jersey or fleece
- thermal hat and gloves
- waterproof jacket
- sunscreen and sunhat (sunglasses also recommended)
- water bottle and snack food
- a day bag to carry your gear, that leaves your hands free
- sturdy footwear.
- Lunch will be provided. Hot water, tea, and coffee will be available on the coach.
- Medical conditions or special needs: please advise a member of the organising committee (in confidence) at least one day before the field trip.
- Note that collecting permits for New Zealand plants must be obtained by prior arrangement from the Department of Conservation (www.doc.govt.nz).
- Trip will depart 7.30am and return 7.00pm (approx.).