To Cantabrians it’s part of their backyard. To trampers more generally, a nice excursion in summer and a great training climb for novices in winter. The main routes on Mount Somers are certainly not technical, but its landscape offers more than you might expect.

For a route map and more images www.occasionalclimber.co.nz

Peter Laurenson is a member of the Wellington section of the New Zealand Alpine Club and editor of FMC’s Backcountry.

For more images and info about Peter, visit www.occasionalclimber.co.nz