Mount Stewart (New Zealand)

Mount Stewart is located 119 kilometres (74 mi) northwest of Christchurch in Arthur's Pass National Park. It is set at the southern end of Jellicoe Ridge in the Southern Alps of the South Island.^[2] Precipitation runoff from the mountain's north and east slopes drains to the Crow River, whereas the south and west slopes drain into the Waimakariri River. Topographic relief is significant as the summit rises 1,210 metres (3,970 feet) above the Waimakariri River Valley in 2.5 kilometres, and 1,150 metres (3,773 feet) above the Crow Valley in 1.5 kilometres. The nearest higher peak is Mount Guinevere, 2.1 kilometres to the north.^[3]

Based on the Köppen climate classification, Mount Stewart is located in a marine west coast (Cfb) climate zone.^[6] Prevailing westerly winds blow moist air from the Tasman Sea onto the mountains, where the air is forced upwards by the mountains (orographic lift), causing moisture to drop in the form of rain or snow. The months of December through February offer the most favourable weather for viewing or climbing this peak.^[7]

The first ascent of the summit was made in 1927 by R.R. Chester, I.W. Tucker, C.W. Evans, and A.H. Candy via the Southeast Ridge.^[2]

Climbing routes:^[2]

• South East Ridge
• North East Ridge
• From the West
• Via Lower Crow River

• List of mountains of New Zealand by height