Location and surroundings
Red Hill is located in the Marlborough District and the Tasman region of New Zealand. Belonging to the Richmond Range within the Northwest Ranges of the South Island, it stands as the highest mountain in the Richmond Range, ranking as the highest of 159 named peaks in this specific range. The surrounding landscape features a distinctive ultramafic plateau with serpentine and heavy metal deposits, alongside limestone formations.
Neighbouring peaks
The immediate vicinity of Red Hill includes several nearby summits and mountain passes:
- Red Hill (hill), 1,602 m, 1.2 km NW
- Mount Ellis (peak), 1,615 m, 4.5 km N
- Chrome (peak), 1,646 m, 4.9 km S
- Wards Pass (mountain pass), 720 m, 5.0 km NE
- Porters Knob (hill), 1,710 m, 5.4 km SW
- Mount Ellis (hill), 1,252 m, 5.4 km N
- Porter Knob (peak), 1,522 m, 5.6 km SW
- Star Hill (hill), 1,369 m, 6.5 km E
Standing at 1,791 metres, Red Hill surpasses all these immediate neighbours in elevation, maintaining its position as the primary high point of the area.
The view from the summit
From the high point of Red Hill, visibility extends across the region to several other notable giants within a 25 km radius. The highest peaks within this distance include Mount Rintoul at 1,730 m positioned 18.9 km NE, Scotts Knob at 1,687 m located 24.0 km S, and Mount Patriarch at 1,655 m situated 13.7 km E. Additional peaks in sight are Ben Nevis at 1,619 m at 8.7 km N, Saint Arnaud at 1,618 m located 24.8 km SW, and Gordons Knob standing at 1,592 m at 10.4 km W.
The range
The Richmond Range contains 159 named peaks, with Red Hill serving as its high point and highest mountain. This range forms part of the Northwest Ranges on the South Island of New Zealand. The terrain of the range features varied geological compositions, including the ultramafic plateau around Red Hill that hosts unique serpentine and heavy metal deposits.
Climbing routes
The Te Araroa track passes over Red Hills at the northern and southern end of the range, where there is also a hut for trampers. This established trail provides the primary route for traversing the area on foot.
Climate and weather
Climate data for Red Hill are estimates from NASA POWER climate data covering the 2001–2020 monthly means, adjusted to the summit elevation. Mean temperatures at the summit indicate January is the warmest month at about 8 °C, while July is the coldest at about 1 °C. Mean temperatures remain above freezing at the summit throughout all twelve months of the year. Precipitation in the surrounding area totals about 1,000 mm a year, with June being the wettest month recording about 105 mm and February the driest at about 60 mm. Mountain weather in this region can change rapidly, bringing strong winds, sudden drops in temperature, and reduced visibility.
Best time to visit
The months with a mean temperature above freezing at the summit span the entire year from January through December, offering relatively milder conditions. However, the drier months such as February provide more favourable periods for outdoor activities. Summer and early autumn generally present the most stable conditions for travel along the ridge.
Nature and wildlife
The alpine and sub-alpine zones of Red Hill feature soils derived from limestone and ultramafic rock, creating a specialised environment that supports a unique ecology and distinct plant communities. For example, Notothlaspi viretum is known to grow in the area. Protected areas at or near the summit include the Mount Richmond Forest Park, which is designated as a conservation park protecting the native flora, fauna, and geological features.
Guides and organised ascents
When tackling alpine terrain and high elevations, employing a certified guide is advisable for safety and navigation. In New Zealand, visitors turn to the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association, which is an IFMGA/UIAGM member, as well as the national alpine club, the New Zealand Alpine Club. Established guiding companies operating in New Zealand include Alpine Guides Aoraki based at Aoraki/Mount Cook and Adventure Consultants based at Wānaka. Guided ascents typically account for trip duration, group size, hut accommodations, and technical equipment requirements.
Safety and preparation
Ascending peaks like Red Hill demands proper physical preparation, navigation tools, and adequate clothing to cope with sudden weather shifts in the Richmond Range. In the event of an emergency, the national emergency number is 111, where callers should ask for Police, who coordinate land search and rescue. Note that 112 and 911 redirect to 111 on mobile phones.
History and name
Maungakura / Red Hill is a culturally significant mountain that holds deep importance to Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō, Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Kuia, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Tama ki Te Tau Ihu, Rangitāne o Wairau, and Te Atiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui. The mountain is officially listed on the New Zealand official list of places with dual names, reflecting its dual heritage.
Interesting facts
Red Hill stands at 1,791 metres and holds the title of the highest mountain in the Richmond Range among its 159 named peaks. Geologically, its plateau is distinguished by limestone, serpentine, and heavy metal deposits within an ultramafic landscape that supports specialized flora like Notothlaspi viretum. Additionally, the mountain sits directly on the boundary of the Marlborough District and Tasman districts.
FAQ
What is the elevation of Red Hill? Red Hill stands at an elevation of 1,791 metres.
Where is Red Hill located? It is located in New Zealand, on the boundary of the Marlborough District and Tasman region, and forms the summit of the Richmond Range.
Is Red Hill the highest peak in its range? Yes, Red Hill is the highest mountain in the Richmond Range, ranking as the highest of 159 named peaks there.
What peaks are near Red Hill? Nearby summits include Red Hill at 1,602 m, Mount Ellis at 1,615 m, Chrome at 1,646 m, and Porters Knob at 1,710 m, among others.
Are there huts on Red Hill? Yes, there is a hut for trampers located near Red Hills where the Te Araroa track passes over the range.
Is there water on the way to Red Hill? Natural water sources along the trail should be treated before drinking, and hikers should carry between 1.5 and 3 litres of water depending on weather conditions and length of the trek.
What is the mobile phone coverage like? Coverage in the hills is patchy and depends on the operator; 112 reaches emergency services over any available network, and maps should be downloaded before setting out.