Young to Wilkin - Do I need an ice axe?

I am crossing the Young to the Wilkin in two weeks time. Just wondering if I am likely to need crampons and an ice axe on Gillespie Pass?

Hope someone can comment on Gilespie specifically - but Mt Armstrong accross the Makarora had snowline at 1800m last week. So you're unlikely to hit solid snow. But maybe inchutes on the dark face ... I'd take at least an axe if I were going there today.

South of Peak 1629 on the descent to Gillespie Stream can hold snow into February, although it's well worn by that stage via the hoards making the crossing. For late November I would carry an ice axe.