Coronation Peak
Coronation Peak is a mountain in Fiordland, New Zealand.Description
Coronation Peak is the highest point of the Museum Range. The prominent peak is located west-northwest of the town of Te Anau in the Southland Region of the South Island, and is set within Fiordland National Park which is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site. Precipitation runoff from the mountain's north slope drains into the headwaters of the Irene River, whereas the west slope drains into the headwaters of the Misty River, and the other slopes drain to the Camelot River. Topographic relief is significant as the summit rises above the Misty River in two kilometres. The nearest higher neighbour is Mount Irene, nine kilometres to the northeast.Etymology
The mountain was named in 1953 by the Canterbury Museum Fiordland Expedition, the coronation year of Queen Elizabeth II. The peak was first sighted at close range on 15 February 1953, and the expedition party suggested that it be called Coronation Peak. The toponym has been officially approved by the New Zealand Geographic Board.Climate
Based on the Köppen climate classification, Coronation Peak is located in a marine west coast climate zone. Prevailing westerly winds blow moist air from the Tasman Sea onto the mountains, where the air is forced upward by the mountains, causing moisture to drop in the form of rain or snow. This climate supports a glacieret on the south slope. The months of December through February offer the most favourable weather for viewing or climbing this peak.