After a non-exciting drive to the Kauaeranga Forest Education Camp we arrived late morning. After a quick reconnaissance of the building the 15 members of the tramping party secured their accommodation for the weekend.
The A Team (advanced team) set off for the summit of the Pinnacles. The weather was fine except for the threat of rain and some wind.
The first bash was along the road to its end where we entered the bush. Not far on was a swing bridge to cross the Kauaeranga River. A couple of brave ones decided to miss the bridge and hop across from rock to rock. Who would want to get their boots wet so early in the tramp?
Onwards we tramped with the splattering of rain and then the wind. The tramp up to Hydro Camp was delayed with the redistribution of the load between 2 of the trampers (a one day tramp does not require a week’s supply of whatever).
Onwards and upwards we went to arrive at the base to Pinnacle Peak. The wind was increasing in velocity as we ascended the stairs to the peak.
Who counted the stairs and hand rails? No one!!! But never mind. If you could hold onto your hat and not be blown over you were doing OK.
Arriving at the summit the objective was to avoid being blown over the side. 2 members took the risk to take photos of the fantastic view from some precarious positions on the rock out crops.
The descent was slightly delayed with one misplacing their walking pole.( There is always one who loses control). As we headed down we meet a group of youngsters walking to the summit. We gave them encouragement.
Onward to Hydro Camp where we deviate and head down Billy Goat Track.
Time is moving on due to delays but everyone is keen to experience the Billy Goat Track.
What an experience to see what our predecessors experienced with the difficulties to fell and remove the gigantic Kauri trees.
Near the end with feet dry we encounter a sign “bridge closed as it is unsafe”. Bugger, we have dry feet up to now. But all is not lost we are able to step across the rocks without mishap.
We hit base at approximately 6pm. After a long day it was lovely to end up at our accommodation with being able to have a shower, cook our food and relax for the evening.