October Labour Weekend away trip
Perfect weather best place to be. Distinct three different scenes for the 3 days and strongly recommended for trip again. 13 experienced, enthusiastic club members joined this trip and divided into two groups circled tramp started from both end of track, met each other group in the middle of Waipakihi River track and ended at the camp site where bus was parked for 3 days.
Saturday 24th October
It was expected to rain all weekend and we hoped for clear weather by the time arriving at the camp site by bus on Friday night. But unfortunately it rained all night and we had to have breakfast in the bus. Waiting for the weather to clear. Late start and wet day sounds miserable. But it was pleasant walking up to the highest point approximately 1500 metre high pass the tree line in the cool weather. We were pleased finally to see the Waipakihi hut at around 5.30pm. Luckily enough there was 7 bunks remaining for us as only 12 bunk hut. Next morning we woke up to a frosty beautiful sunny day.
Sunday 25th October
Sunday was to be challenging day with approximately 30 river crossings. Several occasions we linked up crossing fast moving waters. Eventually meeting up with the other party. They were having lunch and sun bathing.
One occasion we came across a fellow photo attached(?). It was decided to feel his vital signs and Rob suggested mouth to mouth resuscitation. It would be a waste of time. But we could leave the North Shore tramping club application form just in case. Walking through tussock grass the earth opened up and Peter disappeared briefly.
After lunch we decided to walk to our camp site but unfortunately it was getting late. So we camped 1 km short of the original camp site by the river approximately 6 pm.
Monday 26th October
Walked to the original camp site we supposed to stay and started ascent to the steep hill up to the mountain. Views were spectacular overlooking lake Taupo and Mt Ruapehu with snow clad slopes. Finally reached the trig and had lunch on our descend down. The track back to the bus was very pleasant and easy to walk. Finally reaching the bus at 4pm.
It was reassuring to have Rob as a our leader with all the river crossing and knowledge of the bush to make the trip enjoyable.