The very beautiful North branch valley starts at Routeburn Flats. A pleasant track to Somnus rock shelter (little headroom but sleeps 6+). From there the route to North Col gets less precise but the faint trails through the thick scrub bits are well cairned. Splendid views and good camping behind a wind breaking stone wall. Further around Nereus is lake Nerine still completely frozen, the whole area under thick snow. Wildly impressive but not very inviting for the average tramper not ready for camping on snow.

KEA BASIN *** A side track in the Rees valley leads via an old cattle track to an upper valley at the bottom of Mt Earnslaw, a day trip towards the tops give fine views of the peaks and valleys. Comfortable rock bivouac with view on Mt Earnslaw.