With rumours of Cyclone Pam encircling us, our determined band of ten trampers headed in to Otaki Forks, hopeful of some time on the tops. On arrival, our erstwhile leader Anna had to make a decision and with some reluctance, relinquished hopes of glory and great views in the face of uncertain weather and the imminent arrival of hundreds of runners coming the other way. It turned out we had a slight calendar clash with the Tararua Mountain Race!
A new destination was determined: we were headed for Waiteaewae Hut, staying down off the exposed tops and following a river valley through lovely bush. The change of route was met with fortitude, even by those amongst us who had been there a mere two weeks earlier.
Though there were mutterings of “The Slip” and “Detours” we soldiered on in good spirits. Despite Paul’s vine entanglements and multiple tree root attacks we suffered only one casualty: but Kerry’s twisted ankle was no match for Marie’s strapping skills and Claire’s drugs!
The weather played ball and the birdsong and lush surrounds made for a pleasant, if heavy-going 7 hours. The trail detours around a substantial slip and this, apparently, adds about 2 hours to the tramp.
At the final track split before the hut, half of us opted for the dry weather route (ironically guaranteeing wet boots!), whilst the remainder felt it necessary to climb another hill before the day was over!
Boot-emptying, sock-squeezing and bunk-baggying was followed by a reviving swim in the crystal clear water of the river and a snooze in the sun on the gravel beach.
Barbara choreographed slicing and dicing and a delicious Thai curry materialised from very small beginnings. This was followed by the pure genius of crushed ginger snaps on rehydrated dried fruit with yoghurt. Yum!
A little chit-chat and stargazing ensued. Moreporks were doing their thing in the surrounding forest.
Sunday started with low cloud but brightened with the arrival of Brad’s coffee plunger and proper coffee! Luxury. Retracing our steps, we had a pretty cruisey 6 hours back to Otaki Forks and Sarah’s jacuzzi under the bridge.
It may have been an unanticipated route, but as one of our number mentioned, it felt like a lovely long weekend.