Field trip to Old Man Range

Joint trip with Dunedin Branch of Forest and Bird. The Old Man Range is one of the high, block ranges of Central Otago. The main summit plateau is above 1600 m and is of varied topography with bare, windswept slopes, snowbanks, gullies and wetlands each supporting different plant communities. We propose visiting the Hyde Rock area at the southern end of the range where we will be able to see representative examples of the different vegetation types. There are extensive snowbanks where Hebejeebie trifida, Celmisia haastii, Geum uniflorum, Ranunculus pachyrrhizus and Caltha obtusa may be found. The area is floristically very rich and despite being extensively botanised, there are a number of poorly known or undescribed species present. Examples recorded belong to the genera Myosotis, Ranunculus, Chionohebe, Cardamine and Luzula. To gain access 4WD vehicles are required. Places on this trip may be limited. The Old Man Range is a severe, high-alpine environment with high winds and very cold temperatures so warm clothing and good parkas are essential. Bring lunch. Leaving Botany car park 8.00 am returning late as we aim to spend as much time as possible in the field.