by Jon MS » Mon 12 Apr, 2021 9:20 am
I have done the South Coast at that time of year (plus over 40 times in other seasons).
Assuming you don't get floods probably the the biggest issue is short day lengths.
With floods, it will depend on your luck with weather. While the major issue will be Louisa River, you may also have problems at Faraway Ck, Louisa Ck, Surprise Rvt and South Cape Rvt plus if creeks are in full flood several other smaller creeks (eg the creek west of Turua Beach). Except for Surprise Rvt and South Cape Rvt, when in flood all of these will be too fast flowing to cross safely using a packraft.
Most groups take 10 to 12+ hours to cross the Ironbounds. At that time of year that means the entire daylight hours so you will need to get up in the dark and camp at last light (or later).
During gales, the Ironbounds could be a challenge! I have had knee deep snow on top which slows you down heaps.
As regards mud, the South Coast track is ALWAYS muddy. In some very dry seasons in summer some of the mud can dry out but none of the big mud patches ever dry out.
Having said all that, I have had very stable weather in winter on the South Coast track, including sleeping on beaches in a bivy bag under the stars.