The Scenic Party ; called this because we hiked at such a pace that we could actually take in the scenery.
We had a wonderful 5 days hiking from the Ahuriri River along the Te Araroa Trail to Lake Hawea. Camped most nights in generally delightful spots by warm streams, which were ideal for a couple of our party to fall into while still waking up at the beginning of the day.
The whole group distinguished themselves in various ways:
Helen, our leader, ensured we all had a great time, but did have problems on the first night erecting her tent (see Photo )
Peter: well prepared and fast, but only because he left his stove behind .
Roger; left his cooker going in the wind. It blew out, unnoticed, and all his gas escaped. Lucky Peter and Roger could team up!
Viv: Fell in the river and was usually at the back taking photos.
Karen: Always cheerful and helpful , but once she became leader on a day tramp, we could see who was boss.
Pat: injured his arm (again ) when a stick jumped up and impaled him while he was being a gentleman ( again ).
Great summer weather, no rain!
After the main tramp we did an overnight to Brewster Hut on New Years Eve and summitted Mt Armstrong, then 2000 m down to the Buller River for a swim. Wonderful views of snowcapped mountains. The last day a quick trip up the Haast River Valley
Photos of Helen and the tent and Mt Brewster hut