Palmer Range/ Taylor Range
Alerts
Boundaries are approximate and not suitable for accurate boundary definition. Check current DOC permit conditions before hunting. Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.
Chamois, Deer - Red, Tahr
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.
Vehicle access to Harrisons Bight at Lake Heron is allowed between the 1 November and the last weekend in April.
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
About this hunting block
Open hunting area all year with chamois, red deer and the occasional tahr.
General information
Taylor Range is south of Lake Heron and northwest of Mt Somers township. It is part of Hakatere Conservation Park.
The area is centred on the Taylor Range with Mt Taylor being the highest point 2,333 m. The area is steep with extensive scree fans. Tussock is the predominate vegetation with some matagouri in gullies and at lower elevations.
Palmer Range/Taylor Range adjoins Mount Barrosa/Mount Somers to the south and Black Hill Range/Mt Hutt to the east.
Access
Turn off Arundel Rakaia Gorge Road SH72 at Mt Somers township and follow the Ashburton Gorge Road to Hakatere corner. Turn right onto Hakatere Heron Road.
Foot access is either from Lake Emily or Lake Heron. Vehicle access to Harrisons Bight at Lake Heron is allowed between the 1 November and the last weekend in April but requires a permit - see Harrisons Bight vehicle access permits
Topo maps
NZTopo50 map sheets: BW19 Taylors Camp, BW20 Lake Coleridge, BX19 Hakatere, BX20 Methven
Hut information
Know before you go
Help control wallabies in this area by reporting sightings
Wallabies can displace other species, affect pastures and native species' habitats.
They also potentially impact production and native ecosystems.
Report your sighting online – it only takes a few minutes.
You can also report wallaby sightings by calling 0800 80 99 66.
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block